In Michigan, a person under the age of 21 cannot legally possess alcohol. Possession has been defined as having a case of beer or a bottle of liquor, but it has also been defined as possession in your body as a vessel. In other words, if you have alcohol in your blood as determined by your BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) in a breath or blood measurement, then you can be charged with an MIP.
Consequences for a 1st offense Minor In Possession can include fines, probation, community service and Drug and Alcohol Awareness courses – YOU CANNOT BE SENTENCED TO JAIL FOR A FIRST OFFENSE MIP. Most importantly, an MIP will leave a misdemeanor on your permanent criminal history that will follow you on employment applications or graduate study program applications, and could have long-lasting effects on your future.
If you received a citation for MIP, you may be eligible for the MIP diversion program through the city or the MIP Deferral program through the county. Both programs allow you to clear your record if you successfully complete a term of probation, the difference between the two depends solely on the law enforcement agency who issued the ticket.
If you believe you have been wrongfully charged with an MIP, you need to speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney. Contact the experienced defense attorneys at Barberi Law for more information.
