Consequences of a Minor in Possession (California Business and Professions Code 25662 and CVC 13202.5)
According to California Business and Professions Code section 25662, if you are under the age of 21 and have any alcoholic beverage on any street, highway, public place, or in a place open to the public, you can be found guilty of a minor in possession offense.
Punishment for Minor in Possession
Under California law, a conviction for minor in possession is a misdemeanor. If you are found to be a minor in possession of alcohol under California Business and Professions Code section 25622, you face the following consequences:
(1) A fine of $250; OR
(2) Community service for at least 24 hours and up to 36 hours
If you are convicted for a second minor in possession offense, your punishment will be more severe. A second minor in possession conviction results in the following:
(1) A fine of $500
(2) Community service for at least 36hours and up to 48 hours; OR
(3) Both a $500 fine and community service, if the court finds it appropriate under the circumstances
If you are required to complete community service hours, you must complete the hours when you are not in school or working. This can end up requiring you to spend much of your free time completing community service hours.
Other Consequences for Minor in Possession Conviction
In addition to the above consequences, a minor in possession conviction can also impact your driving privileges. Under California Vehicle Code section 13202.5, if you are convicted for a minor in possession offense while you are between the ages of 13 and 20, the court will suspend your driving privilege for one year. If you do not yet have your driver’s license, the court can delay the issuance of your driver’s license for one year after you become eligible to drive. For each successive minor in possession conviction, the court can suspend your driving privileges for an additional year.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, a minor in possession conviction will appear on your criminal record. This means that if you have a minor in possession conviction, employers will be able to see your conviction when you apply for jobs. A minor in possession conviction is also visible to colleges and universities that you may wish to apply to.
California Lawyers for Minors
The lawyers at Wallin & Klarich have over 40 years of experience successfully representing clients in criminal matters and are available to discuss your case. We understand that a minor in possession charge can be stressful. If you or a loved one has been charged with a minor in possession offense, call Wallin & Klarich today to talk about any questions you may have.
Wallin & Klarich has offices in Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, Victorville, West Covina, Torrance, and Sherman Oaks. Call us today at (877) 4-NO-JAIL or (877) 466-5245. We will be there when you call.
