In Texas, the law states that the minimum drinking age is 21. While individuals over the age of 18 can serve alcohol at an establishment or restaurant, they cannot consume or purchase alcohol until they’re 21. When minors disregard the law and consume or purchase alcohol before they are legally qualified, they can suffer severe consequences.
As children grow, they start to express interest in what it means to be an adult and sometimes that means alcohol is involved. Many young individuals are unaware of the risks and dangers that can occur due to alcohol. From drinking and driving to alcohol poisoning, making sure your child is fully aware of the risks can help them take the responsible route. If your child is facing an underage drinking charge, contact an underage drinking lawyer today.
What Causes Underage Drinking in Texas?
There are many reasons why a young person may drink alcohol even while knowing the risks. Some of these reasons include:
- Peer pressure: One of the leading causes of underage drinking in Texas is peer pressure. If your child is hanging out with friends and starts drinking, your child may participate to fit in or make friends.
- Desire to feel like an adult: While we may know how young they are, minors most often believe they are older than their actual age. They believe they understand the risks and want to be treated like an adult, so they use alcohol to try and seem older.
- Social media and pop culture: With the media constantly surrounding and being present in the daily lives of young adults, they’re more exposed to pictures or shows that glorify alcohol. Instead of showing the dangers and risks, many forms of media make alcohol seem like a cool experience rather than a risky one.
- Mental health: In TV shows and movies, characters who struggle with depression or anxiety often are shown indulging in alcohol. Young adults will reflect on this behavior and believe that the only way to stop these difficult emotional issues is with alcohol.
Penalties for Underage Drinking in Texas
Texas has a zero-tolerance policy, and if anyone under the age of 21 is found with alcohol in their system while driving, they can suffer severe punishments that may affect their career, education, and future.
Minor Under the Age of 17
For young adults under the age of 17, the penalties for a DUI in Texas are:
- Up to $500 in fines
- Alcohol awareness education classes
- Up to 40 hours’ community service
- Lost driving privileges for 30 days to 180 days
The impact that these penalties can have on a minor can significantly affect their future. Not only can this affect their license, but after-school activities, relationships with friends, and many other actions.
Minors Between the Ages of 17 and 20
At this age, minors are either looking into college, already in college, or are starting in the workforce. Either way, having possession of alcohol can affect job and college applications. Some of the consequences include:
- A DWI arrest with fines anywhere from $2,000 up $4,000 depending on the level of alcohol and the number of prior DWI arrests
- Up to anywhere from 180 days to I year in jail depending on the number of prior DWI arrests
- Possible ignition interlock device (IID)
- Suspension or revocation of driver’s license
If you or someone you love is facing the consequences of an underage drinking charge, contact an experienced attorney that can help with your case. Having legal representation by your side and protecting your rights can help you feel confident in your case.
Contact Sophia Martinez Law for Experienced Texas Underage Drinking Lawyer
At Sophia Martinez Law, we understand how challenging an underage drinking charge can be for you and your family. Underage drinking in Texas concerns many parents and loved ones. With the help of Attorney Sophia C. Martinez and her years of experience, she can offer dependable advice. Her extensive knowledge and dependable client-oriented approach make her a perfect fit to represent your case.
With her favorable past results and testimonials, you can trust her to protect your rights and intentions. As a fluent speaker of English and Spanish, she’s able to offer comfortable communication with many types of individuals.
Call (210) 226-3000 or fill out our contact form for more information about our services.