Underage Drinking Lawyer Greene County — What Are the Penalties for a Minor?
Underage drinking in Greene County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 4.1-305, carrying up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and a driver’s license suspension. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending minor in possession charges in Greene County. An experienced underage drinking lawyer Greene County can challenge the evidence and seek alternatives to conviction.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Underage Drinking and Minor in Possession
Virginia law strictly prohibits the possession or consumption of alcohol by anyone under 21 years of age. The primary statute, Va. Code § 4.1-305, makes it unlawful for any person under 21 to purchase, attempt to purchase, or possess any alcoholic beverage. This is commonly referred to as a “minor in possession” (MIP) charge. A conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which is the most serious misdemeanor category in Virginia. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses its extensive experience to defend these charges.
Official Resources and Court Information
Charges are prosecuted by the Greene County Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Greene County General District Court located at 85 Stanard Street, Stanardsville. The official state statutes governing alcohol offenses are maintained by the Virginia General Assembly.
- Secure legal representation immediately after a citation or arrest.
- Your attorney will review the police report and evidence for constitutional violations.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for dismissal, reduction, or diversion.
- Prepare for a bench trial in Greene County General District Court if no favorable plea is offered.
- If convicted, file an appeal to Greene County Circuit Court for a new trial.
- Explore expungement options if the case is dismissed or you are found not guilty.
Penalties for Underage Alcohol Charges in Greene County
In Greene County, a minor in possession conviction carries severe penalties including jail time, fines, and a mandatory driver’s license suspension.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minor in Possession (Va. Code § 4.1-305) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-month to 1-year suspension | Permanent criminal record, impact on college admissions/jobs |
| Using Fake ID to Obtain Alcohol (Va. Code § 4.1-305.1) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory suspension | Community service, potential forfeiture of ID |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Greene County Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how these cases are built and challenged. We focus on protecting your future by seeking dismissals, reductions to non-alcohol offenses, or entry into diversion programs to avoid a permanent conviction.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in alcohol-related cases. For instance, we have successfully secured dismissals for underage alcohol possession charges upon completion of community service. Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Underage Drinking Lawyer Near Greene County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Greene County, Stanardsville, and Ruckersville. We are accessible via Route 29 and provide strong representation for minor in possession charges at the Greene County General District Court.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Underage Drinking Charges
What is the penalty for a minor in possession charge in Greene County?
A conviction is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and a mandatory 6-month driver’s license suspension under Va. Code § 4.1-305.
Can an underage drinking charge be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. If the charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or the prosecution enters a nolle prosequi, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
Do I need a minor in possession defense lawyer Greene County for a first offense?
Yes. Even a first-time misdemeanor creates a permanent public record that can affect college applications, scholarships, and employment. A lawyer can seek diversion to avoid a conviction.
What should I do if my child is charged with underage drinking in Greene County?
Contact an underage alcohol charge lawyer Greene County immediately. Do not let your child speak to police without an attorney. We can intervene early to protect their rights and explore options to minimize long-term consequences.
Will I lose my license for an underage drinking charge?
Yes, if convicted. Va. Code § 4.1-305 mandates a driver’s license suspension of at least six months and up to one year, regardless of whether a vehicle was involved.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our pages on Greene County DUI defense and Greene County criminal defense. For help in nearby areas, consider our Albemarle County criminal lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.