Underage Possession Defense Lawyer in Caroline County, Maryland
Underage possession of alcohol in Caroline County is a serious offense under Maryland law, carrying penalties that can impact a minor’s future. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Caroline County. Our underage possession defense lawyer Caroline County team provides strong representation for minors facing these charges.
Maryland Underage Possession Law
In Maryland, it is illegal for a person under the age of 21 to possess an alcoholic beverage. This offense is governed by Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 10-117. The statute prohibits the possession of alcohol by a minor in any public place, including vehicles. A conviction is a criminal offense, not merely a civil infraction, and can result in a permanent criminal record.
Last verified: April 2026 | District Court of MD for Caroline County | Maryland General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the Maryland statute, see the Md. Code, Criminal Law Article § 10-117. Court procedures and local rules for Caroline County cases are available on the District Court of Maryland for Caroline County website.
Caroline County Court Process for Underage Possession
Underage possession cases in Caroline County are heard at the District Court of MD for Caroline County, located at 207 South Third Street, Denton, MD 21629. The State’s Attorney for Caroline County prosecutes these cases. A key procedural fact is that Maryland law allows for the possibility of a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) disposition for eligible minors, which can avoid a formal conviction on their record if probation terms are successfully completed.
- Receive a citation or criminal summons for underage possession.
- Appear for arraignment at the Caroline County District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review evidence and negotiate with the State’s Attorney for a possible PBJ or dismissal.
- If no agreement is reached, prepare for and proceed to trial before a judge.
- If found guilty or if accepting a plea, attend sentencing where the judge may impose fines, community service, or alcohol education.
- Successfully complete any probationary period to potentially seal or expunge the record.
Penalties for Underage Possession in Caroline County
In Caroline County, underage possession of alcohol carries a maximum penalty of a $500 fine for a first offense, with increased penalties for subsequent violations.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Underage Possession (1st Offense) | Criminal Misdemeanor | Not typical | Up to $500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record, alcohol education |
| Underage Possession (Subsequent) | Criminal Misdemeanor | Possible | Up to $1,000 | Likely suspension | Enhanced penalties, probation |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Caroline County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results firm-wide, with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In Caroline County specifically, we have 5 documented results: 5 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate). Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the State builds its cases.
Case Results for Minors in Caroline County
Our underage possession defense lawyer Caroline County team has achieved documented positive outcomes for clients. In Caroline County, we have 5 documented results: 5 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate). These results stem from thorough case investigation, effective negotiation for alternative dispositions like PBJ, and preparedness for trial when necessary. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex juvenile matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Caroline County Underage Possession Defense Lawyer
Our Maryland office represents clients at Caroline County courts. We serve clients in Denton, Federalsburg, Greensboro, Preston, and Ridgely. For a minor in possession defense lawyer Caroline County residents trust, contact us for a 24/7 phone consultation. Meetings are by appointment only at our Maryland location.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
199 E Montgomery Ave Suite 100 Room 211, Rockville, MD 20850
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (888)-437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Underage Possession in Caroline County
What are the penalties for a minor in possession of alcohol in Caroline County, MD?
A first offense is a criminal misdemeanor punishable by a fine of up to $500. Subsequent offenses can result in fines up to $1,000 and possible license suspension. The court may also order community service or alcohol education programs.
Can an underage possession charge be expunged in Maryland?
It depends on the final disposition of the case. Charges that result in a dismissal, acquittal, or Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) are generally eligible for expungement after a waiting period. A formal conviction for underage possession may also be eligible for expungement under Maryland’s expanded Justice Reinvestment Act provisions after several years.
Do I need a juvenile alcohol charge lawyer Caroline County for a first-time offense?
Yes. Even a first-time charge can result in a permanent criminal record, which can affect college admissions, employment, and financial aid. A lawyer can seek alternative resolutions like PBJ to avoid a conviction.
What is Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) for an underage possession charge?
PBJ is a Maryland disposition where the judge places you on probation instead of entering a guilty verdict. If you successfully complete probation, a formal conviction is not entered on your public record. PBJ is available for most misdemeanors, including underage possession, at the District Court of MD for Caroline County.
Will an underage possession charge affect my driver’s license?
Yes, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) can suspend the driving privilege of a minor convicted of an alcohol offense, including underage possession. The suspension period varies. An attorney may argue against suspension or for a restricted license.
Related Legal Help in Caroline County
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for DUI/DWI in Caroline County and general criminal defense in Caroline County. For broader Maryland resources, see our Maryland Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Office visits by appointment only. Phone consultations available 24/7.