Tacoma, WA MIP Attorney

A Minor in Possession of alcohol conviction in Washington State is a Gross Misdemeanor. A Gross Misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in jail (with up to two years probation) and a $5,000 fine. The penalty is the same for under aged defendants (13-20 years of age) who have consumed alcohol and are not in physical possession of alcohol at the time of arrest. This charge is called Minor in Consumption and applies to individuals under the age of 21 who are suspected of being under the influence of alcohol in a public place or in a vehicle. Cristine Beckwith is a Tacoma juvenile attorney with a proven track record in the communities of Puyallup, Lakewood, Federal Way, Auburn, and other jurisdictions throughout Pierce County and King County.

MIP & Driver's License Suspension

Minors who are convicted of a MIP offense or enter into a diversion agreement will have the additional WA State Department of Licensing penalty of a one year driver's license suspension (two year suspension for a second alcohol offense). There is also a license suspension if a minor is in possession of marijuana or other drugs. Washington State law requires driving privileges to be revoked for minors that are either convicted of or sign a diversion agreement pursuant to a drug or marijuana possession charge. However, there are opportunities for early reinstatement of a minor's suspended license.

An Experienced MIP Lawyer who will Fight for Your Future

When selecting a MIP attorney, you want to be represented by someone who can deliver the best possible outcome. A conviction for drug or alcohol possession is serious and can affect a young person's ability to find employment or be admitted to some colleges. Cristine Beckwith is a Tacoma Criminal Lawyer who advocates for clients charged with alcohol or drug possession throughout King and Pierce County, including the cities of Puyallup, Federal Way, Kent, and Auburn, WA.