Purchasing Alcohol for a Minor

In Washington State, providing alcohol to minors is a serious offense with significant legal consequences. If you are facing charges for purchasing alcohol for a minor, understanding the legal framework and how to defend against these charges is crucial. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we offer comprehensive legal support to help navigate these complex situations.

Understanding the Offense

Under Washington State law, specifically RCW 66.44.270, it is illegal to purchase, provide, or furnish alcohol to anyone under the age of 21. This statute covers not only the direct act of buying alcohol for a minor but also extends to providing it in any way, such as giving it to someone who then supplies it to a minor.

Criminal Charges

Purchasing alcohol for a minor can result in criminal charges that range from a misdemeanor to a gross misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances. The specific charge will often depend on factors such as the minor’s age, whether the alcohol was consumed on private property or in a public place, and whether there were any aggravating factors, such as the involvement of multiple minors or a pattern of behavior.

  • Misdemeanor: For a first offense or less severe circumstances, the charge might be a misdemeanor, which can result in fines and potential jail time.
  • Gross Misdemeanor: More serious cases, such as repeat offenses or cases involving more severe consequences for the minor, may lead to gross misdemeanor charges, which carry harsher penalties.

Defenses Against Charges

Lack of Knowledge

One possible defense is that you were unaware the individual was a minor. If you can demonstrate that you had no reason to know the person was underage, this may affect the outcome of your case. This defense often involves proving that you made a reasonable effort to verify the person’s age.

Mistake of Fact

If you were misled or deceived about the individual’s age, and this deception was reasonable, you might argue a mistake of fact. This defense asserts that you acted based on incorrect information that you reasonably believed to be true.

Lack of Intent

In some cases, it may be possible to argue that there was no intent to violate the law. If you can show that you did not intend to provide alcohol to a minor, this may be relevant to your defense.

Procedural Errors

Examining how the charges were brought against you can also provide a defense. Procedural errors or issues with how evidence was collected can sometimes lead to the dismissal of charges.

Defending against charges of purchasing alcohol for a minor requires a strategic approach and a thorough understanding of the law. At the Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer, we offer the following services:

  • Case Evaluation: We will evaluate the facts of your case, including any evidence and witness statements, to build a strong defense strategy.
  • Expert Consultation: Our team may work with experts to challenge the evidence or provide insights into the case, such as evaluating the accuracy of age verification methods.
  • Negotiation and Litigation: We will negotiate with prosecutors to seek reduced charges or alternative sentencing options and represent you in court to fight for the best possible outcome.

How We Can Help

If you are facing charges for purchasing alcohol for a minor in Washington State, it’s important to seek legal assistance as soon as possible. The Law Office of Erin Bradley McAleer is here to guide you through every step of the legal process, from initial consultation to court representation. Contact us today at (360) 334-6277.