Public Intoxication lawyer

Grand Prairie PI

Minor in consumption is a misdemeanor ticket given out by either an officer from the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) or a police officer. It is given to a minor, someone under 21, who is caught drinking an alcoholic beverage of some sort.

Possession is not enough for a person to be charged with an MIC. The officer giving the ticket must be able to prove that the minor has actually consumed a beverage. If the minor is within the visible presence of or has the consent of their adult parent, legal guardian, or spouse, the minor cannot be charged with an MIC.

Most minors are eligible for deferred disposition if they have not had a previous conviction for MIC. Deferred disposition is a way of removing a citation after completing a probationary period with no further convictions or citations. Also, all requirements imposed in the deferred order must be completed. The probationary period can last for anywhere from 3 months to 6 months.

If the minor violates any portion of either the probation or deferred order, a final judgment of guilty will be entered onto the minor’s record on the 120th day. This can be done without giving further notice.

An MIC, like the other crimes concerning minors and alcohol, is a Class C misdemeanor. The fine for this crime is between $250 and $2000. A jail sentence of up to 6 months in jail can also be imposed. A judge is also capable of imposing community service relating to the misuse of alcohol and or prevention from 8 to 40 hours. The judge also has the power to suspend the individual’s license for between 30 and 180 days.

If you or someone you know has been cited for minor in consumption of alcohol, contact the Grand Prairie MIC lawyer Mark Lassiter at 214-456-1668 today.