For some people, underage drinking is simply a part of growing up or a rite of passage as adolescents move from childhood to adulthood. However, underage drinking is a serious problem that carries severe consequences.
As a former prosecutor in Hunterdon County, Anthony Kearns is fully familiar with police practices as is Victor Rotolo, a former police officer in Elizabeth, NJ. As experienced criminal attorneys, they are advocates for you in the court room.
In New Jersey, a person must be at least 21-years-old to legally buy, possess or drink alcohol. Drinking before the age of 21 carries penalties not only for the young person, but also for any adult who may have provided alcohol to them.
Penalties for an underage drinker in the State of New Jersey include a possible fine of $500 and loss of a driver license for six months. For those who do not yet have a driver license, the suspension would begin once they are eligible to get their license. Enrollment in a treatment or alcohol education program may also be mandated for the underage drinker.
Drivers under the age of 21 who are caught under the influence of alcohol can lose their license for a period of 30 to 90 days, be required to perform community service for 15 to 30 days, and to enroll in a traffic safety and/or alcohol education program.
Adults who purchase alcohol for underage drinkers or who allow underage drinking on their property could find themselves facing lawsuits and possible criminal prosecution, especially if someone is killed or injured as a result of the underage drinking.
Some parents may think of underage drinking as inevitable and may feel that by allowing their children and their children’s friends to drink at home, they are helping to keep them safe. The consequences for all parties, however, are severe.
Underage drinking is a crime, not a right. Because of this, it is important for you to seek the services of an experienced criminal attorney if you or your child are facing charges. If your child has been accused of underage drinking or if you have been accused of enabling underage drinking, call Kearns Rotolo Law. Protect your rights and your children’s rights. Contact Kearns Rotolo Law today.
I was very proud to be represented by Tony and felt secure at a time I needed a compass to head out of a difficult bind. Confidence in your counsel and a sense of security in understanding how best to proceed are important reasons to consider Anthony Kearns and his team of outstanding lawyers.
Tony was excellent! He was knowledgeable, responsive and on-time. His experience as a County Prosecutor definitely helped our case as he knows how the legal system works and how to navigate. I highly recommend Tony and his office.
Thankfully I found Kearns Rotolo Law and I had a wonderful experience working with Charles Rifici on a difficult divorce/child custody issue. I am so grateful for all the work and guidance he provided. He always took his time and diligently went through all my options with me so I could make the decisions that benefitted my family and I. I will be forever thankful for the top notch services he provided.
In March of 2022 I contacted Kearns Rotolo Law Firm with an urgent problem, Mr. Kearns and Mr. Rotolo contacted me immediately to give me hope as to rectify my problem. The end result was Mr Kearns was able to solve my issue through extreme professionalism, I am very grateful I found Kearns Rotolo Law firm and I would recommend their law firm to anyone that has a less extreme problem or a more complex problem, I am very grateful for their services.
I met with Mr. Kearns yesterday about a devastating situation affecting our family. Mr. Kearns and his entire staff made us feel extremely comfortable and showed our family a compassionate side that gave us comfort in the most uncomfortable of situations. Thank you very much. God Bless.