What Happens if You're Caught Underage Drinking in Wisconsin

By Carlos Gamino

Underage drinking is serious in Milwaukee, Waukesha, and elsewhere in Wisconsin—and doing so could get you into serious trouble, create a permanent criminal record for you, and follow you around for the rest of your life.

What is Underage Drinking?

The term underage drinking refers to the drinking of alcohol by someone who hasn’t reached the age of 21. If you’re not yet 21, you can get into trouble for drinking in a bar, drinking at a friend’s house, or even drinking in your own home. Every case is different, but many people who are accused of this type of crime find it helpful to consult with a Milwaukee underage drinking attorney who handles juvenile cases and understands how the laws apply differently in specific age groups.

Alcohol and Related Offenses in Wisconsin

If you’re under the age of 21, you’re not supposed to drink alcohol. If you’re caught, charged, and convicted, you could face a $200 fine and a 3-month driver’s license suspension. You could also be charged and convicted of:

  • Misrepresenting your age to buy alcohol
  • Possessing or consuming alcohol
  • Using a fake ID to buy alcohol
  • Having intoxicants in your vehicle

What Should You Do if You’re Charged With an Underage Drinking Crime?

For most people, it makes sense to get in touch with an underage drinking lawyer who works in Milwaukee and Waukesha as soon as possible after being charged with this type of crime. Because the penalties can be so severe, and because a conviction could hang over your head for the rest of your life, it may be a good idea for you, too.

Call us at 414-383-6700 for a free underage drinking case evaluation. We’ll give you case-specific legal advice and begin developing a defense strategy right away.

Carlos Gamino