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Philadelphia Underage Drug Crimes Lawyers
When a parent learns that their child has been charged with a drug crime, it can be a confusing and devastating occurrence. Most children understand that doing drugs, selling drugs, or having drug paraphernalia is wrong. However, thanks to peer pressure, the media, and other influences, young ones may not thoroughly understand how serious a drug offense can be. It is understandable that parents want help in navigating the situation with the goal of protecting their child and hopefully keeping their child’s record clean. This is where an attorney who specializes in underage drug crimes can be beneficial.
There are a number of factors that will determine how the court will treat a juvenile accused of a drug crime. Depending on the amount of drugs involved and other factors, penalties could include house arrest, a fine, community service, probation, and drug abuse programs. In most cases, the goal for juveniles is to rehabilitate them. If charges remain on the juvenile’s permanent record, it could affect their ability to apply to certain colleges or jobs, and it can make something as routine as getting car insurance a challenge.
An attorney who specializes in underage drug crimes understands that just because a juvenile was charged with a drug crime, this does not mean that they have been convicted. Juveniles have rights to defend themselves until they are proven guilty. This is where having a good attorney comes into play.
Even if a juvenile is guilty of the crime that he or she is being charged with, this does not mean that they are a lost cause. Juveniles are still learning and may make mistakes. When a juvenile is arrested or charged with a drug crime, parents or guardians should not sit idly by. They should immediately contact an experienced drug attorney who can fight to protect the juvenile’s rights.
Juvenile Drug Possession Charges
Juvenile drug possession charges can take on many different forms. Drug charges of all types are taken seriously in Pennsylvania. These charges may include:
• Possession of illegal drugs
• Illegal possession of prescription drugs
• Possession with intent to sell
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
The court may determine that the juvenile will be tried as an adult based on the severity of the offense or if the juvenile has previous incidents. If this happens, the penalties the juvenile will face are a lot more severe and will stay as part of their permanent record. This is something that should be avoided by any means afforded within the law. This is where a criminal attorney with knowledge and experience can help.
In these circumstances, it is easy for parents and the juvenile involved to feel scared. Instead of feeling scared, both parties should be prepared. An experienced criminal defense attorney who handles juvenile cases will be able to aggressively fight for their client in court. It must be understood that a juvenile drug charge is not the same as a conviction. The worst thing that one could do in these circumstances is to give up hope and to not prepare. A sound legal defense is the best way to stand up against these charges. When handling juvenile cases, the goal should always be to keep the juvenile’s record clean either by getting the charges completely dropped or getting the charges drastically reduced.
How Juveniles Are Treated in Court
Juveniles do not receive the same punishments as adults, nor do they face the same charges as adults, unless the court decides to charge them as an adult. Juvenile courts want to rehabilitate the child with the goal of helping them avoid the same mistakes in the future. You want an experienced attorney working with you who is going to investigate the case thoroughly with the goal of fighting for dismissal of charges or a reduction in charges.
Philadelphia Underage Drinking Attorney
Pennsylvania is implementing harsher laws in order to punish people who are caught drinking underage. If a person is caught drinking underage for the first time, then they can be ordered to pay a fine that ranges from $300 to $500. The fine for the second offense is $500 to $1,000. School authorities are also working hard to catch students who drink and are underage.
If you are under the age of 21 and are caught drinking, then you can possibly face a hefty consequence. That is why it is imperative that you contact an attorney. You may be able to avoid getting your license suspended. You may also be able to avoid costly fines.
Key Things That You Need to Know About Underage Drinking
In the state of Pennsylvania, it is illegal for you to do the following.
- To buy or attempt to buy alcohol
- To possess alcohol
- To drink alcohol
- To intentionally transport alcohol
Any type of beverage that has over 0.50 alcohol in it is considered an alcoholic beverage. Beer and wine are included in this. If you are convicted of underage drinking, then you may lose your license. You may also have to pay a fine. The police will tell your parents that you have been caught with alcohol. Additionally, you could possibly go to jail.
Can Anyone Else Face Consequences?
Minors are not the only ones who can get in trouble for underage drinking. If you are the guardian or parent, then you may be fined or arrested. It is illegal for you to do the following.
- Buy alcohol for someone who is under the age of 21
- Give alcohol to someone who is under the age of 21
- Allow someone who is under the age of 21 to use your ID to buy alcohol
- Sell alcohol to someone who is under the age of 21. Even if the person lies about their age, you can still be punished for this.
How An Underage Drinking Lawyer Can Help You
You need the help of an attorney if you are a minor who has been caught drinking. Your attorney will be able to help you in a number of ways. They will discredit evidence that the prosecutors will try to use against you. They will be there to assist you during every step of the way. Your lawyer will also tell which course of action is best for you to take.
There is a possibility that a minor can be tried as an adult. Your attorney will try to get your case transferred to a juvenile court. The consequences that one faces can depend on the charges. However, your attorney will help you build your case. They will also represent you in court.
Defenses That Can Be Used for Underage Drinking
You may think that it is best for you to plead guilty to all of the charges that you are facing. However, there are a variety of defenses that can be used. Your attorney will look for any weakness in the evidence that the prosecutor presents.
There are constitutional rights that you have. If any of those rights are violated, then your case can be tossed out of the court. Unlawful search and seizure is an example of a violation of rights.
Even if the evidence is not in your favor, the attorney will still be able to help you. Your attorney may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor. Even if you have to pay a fine or be put on probation, your underage drinking conviction may not be put on your record.