Underage Drinking Lawyer Manassas — What Are the Penalties for a Minor in Possession?
Underage drinking in Manassas is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 4.1-305, carrying up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and a mandatory driver’s license suspension. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive experience defending minor in possession charges at the Manassas General District Court. An experienced underage drinking lawyer Manassas can challenge the evidence and seek alternatives to conviction.
Virginia Law on Underage Drinking and Minor in Possession
Virginia law strictly prohibits the purchase, possession, or consumption of alcoholic beverages by any person under 21 years of age. The primary statute is Va. Code § 4.1-305, which makes it unlawful for any person under 21 to purchase or possess any alcoholic beverage. This includes beer, wine, and distilled spirits. The law applies even if the minor is not intoxicated; mere possession is sufficient for a charge.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 4.1-305 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms are available at the Manassas General District Court website.
Potential Penalties for an Underage Alcohol Charge in Manassas
An underage alcohol charge is a serious matter with consequences that extend beyond the courtroom. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect college admissions, scholarships, employment, and professional licensing.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence if it was obtained illegally.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will discuss possible resolutions with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, such as an alcohol safety program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge.
- Sentencing: If found guilty, the judge will impose penalties, which may include fines, community service, and license suspension.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a guilty verdict to the Manassas Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Underage Drinking in Manassas
In Manassas, a conviction for underage possession of alcohol (Va. Code § 4.1-305) is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a mandatory driver’s license suspension of at least six months and up to one year.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minor in Possession of Alcohol (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory 6-12 month suspension | Alcohol education program, community service, permanent criminal record |
| Minor in Possession of Alcohol (Subsequent Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Minimum $500 fine or 50 hrs community service | Mandatory 1-year suspension (or until age 21) | Enhanced penalties, possible jail time |
| Using Fake ID to Obtain Alcohol | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory suspension | Separate criminal charge under § 18.2-204.1 |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Manassas Underage Drinking Defense Team
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the specific procedures at the Manassas General District Court and are committed to protecting your future.
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 for Underage and Alcohol-Related Charges
Our attorneys have successfully defended clients facing underage alcohol charges and related offenses. For example, in a Bedford County case, a charge for underage alcohol possession was taken under advisement and dismissed upon the client’s completion of 50 hours of community service. In another matter, a charge of driving on a suspended license was amended to a non-moving violation with no license penalty.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Underage Drinking Lawyer Near Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We provide representation for individuals in Manassas and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Underage Drinking Charges in Manassas
Is underage drinking a misdemeanor in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 4.1-305, possession of alcohol by a minor is a Class 1 misdemeanor. This is the most serious category of misdemeanor in Virginia, carrying a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Will I lose my license for an underage drinking charge in Manassas?
Yes, a conviction under Va. Code § 4.1-305 carries a mandatory driver’s license suspension. For a first offense, the court must suspend your license for at least six months. For a second or subsequent offense, the suspension is for one year or until you turn 21, whichever is longer.
Can an underage alcohol charge be expunged in Virginia?
It depends. If the charge is dismissed (for example, after completing a first-offender program) or you are found not guilty, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A conviction for underage possession, however, generally cannot be expunged from your criminal record.
What should I do if my child is charged with minor in possession in Manassas?
Contact an underage alcohol charge lawyer Manassas immediately. Do not allow your child to speak to police or prosecutors without an attorney. An experienced lawyer can protect their rights, explain the court process, and work towards an outcome that minimizes the long-term impact on their record and future opportunities.
Are there alternatives to jail for an underage drinking conviction?
Yes. For first-time offenders, Virginia law (§ 4.1-305(E)) allows the court to defer the case and order an alcohol education or treatment program. Successful completion typically results in a dismissal of the charge. An attorney can advocate for this alternative disposition.
Related Pages: If you are facing other charges, our Manassas DUI lawyer can also help. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding your underage drinking charge in Manassas, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.