As a young adult, it can be tempting to engage in certain behaviors when many of your peers are doing so. Those who are under 21 might be too impatient to wait a few years, or even a few months, to purchase and consume alcohol. Many times, these young adults end up getting a fake ID in order to partake in these 21-and-older activities. But the fun and games quickly come to an end when they’re busted for their fake IDs, and the legal troubles begin. If you find yourself or your child in this situation, it is important to seek out an experienced New Jersey juvenile defense lawyer as soon as possible.
The Legal Dangers of a Fake ID
High school and college students went back to school recently. For many students, weekends will consist of tailgating, football games, and parties. An unfortunate reality is that alcohol consumption is interwoven throughout most of these activities, and kids are beginning to drink and attempt to purchase alcohol at a much younger age. Many under 21-ers rely on fake IDs to drink at bars or buy alcohol elsewhere. Not only is this dangerous for health and safety reasons, but it presents significant legal implications that must be considered.
As any New Jersey juvenile defense lawyer will tell you, it is unlawful to sell, create, possess, and/or display fake IDs in New Jersey.
A juvenile who uses a fake ID will likely be charged with a disorderly persons offense. If convicted, potential consequences include:
- Jail time of up to 6 months
- Fine up to $1,000
- Mandatory suspension of driver’s license
If the case is sent to the adult criminal court, there are even harsher penalties. This is one instance where the importance of having a skilled New Jersey juvenile defense lawyer comes into play – he or she will fight to keep the case in juvenile court.
Either way, don’t forget the lasting effects that a conviction of this nature could have on your future:
- Difficulty finding a job
- Disciplinary measures from a private university if there are alcohol-related rules in place
- Future attorney costs for the eventual expungement process
Hire a New Jersey Juvenile Defense Lawyer For Fake ID Charges
Navigating the juvenile justice system can be intimidating and confusing. That’s why you need to be able to rely on an experienced and highly qualified New Jersey juvenile defense lawyer to handle your case or your child’s case.
Mark Catanzaro is a juvenile defense lawyer in New Jersey with over 30 years of experience. He will work to negotiate a plea deal with the prosecutor in the case, if not to get it dismissed altogether. Don’t wait – contact Mark Catanzaro today.