New Minor in Possession Law in Louisiana
Mardi Gras season is here, and the influx of people will start crowding the French Quarter and surrounding areas in just a few short weeks to partake in one of the Big Easy’s favorite pastimes – drinking.
Back in August 2016, new laws went into effect in Louisiana and some included drinking-related laws and their tickets and fines.
Minor in Possession Crime
Despite any rumors you may have heard, the legal drinking age in New Orleans is still 21, just like the rest of the country. This means that you must be 21 years old to carry, drink, or buy alcohol–this includes drive-thru daiquiri stands which you can find around the city and surrounding areas.
The Louisiana Minor in Possession of Alcohol law used to state that if you are under 21 years old and caught in possession of or buying an alcoholic beverage, you can potentially be fined no more than $100, sentenced to no more than six months in prison, and you may have your driver’s license suspended for up to 180 days. These were the maximum sentences.
Since August 2016, lawmakers decided that a fine will be the only penalty underage drinkers will face. First time offenders will no longer face the threat of jail time if you are under 21. A minor who is caught in possession can still be fined up to $100 after appearing before the judge, but the citation won’t appear on their criminal history record.
Hire an Experienced Minor in Possession Lawyer in New Orleans
Mardi Gras comes with a lot of fun, especially with family and friends. If you are arrested or receive a summons to appear in court during Mardi Gras (evening for drinking under age) as, you must make a mandatory court appearance. Those who are not 21 years old risk a fine, but no longer jail time, if they are caught drinking alcohol, buying alcohol or carrying opened alcohol. If you or someone you know has been arrested or summoned to appear in court for a minor in possession or underage drinking crime, you should call a reliable New Orleans criminal defense lawyer to ensure that your rights are not being violated and we can even see about having your fines reduced or removed. Call us at (504) 264-9492 or e-mail us. We’re also available on social media at Facebook and Twitter. One of our experienced lawyers is available nights and weekends. Give us a call today for a free consultation!
