Underage drinking is a common issue on college campuses across the country, and campuses in Maryland are no exception. While it may seem like a harmless part of college life to some, underage drinking can lead to serious legal consequences for students. Maryland law takes violations of the legal drinking age seriously, and students caught consuming or possessing alcohol under the age of 21 could face criminal charges, fines and academic repercussions.
In Maryland, the legal drinking age is 21, and the state enforces strict penalties for anyone under that age caught drinking, possessing and/or purchasing alcohol. Under Maryland Code § 10-114, minors found guilty of possessing or consuming alcohol can be charged with a civil offense, punishable by fines up to $500 for a first offense and $1,000 for subsequent offenses. These fines can impose a significant financial burden on students already dealing with the costs of higher education.
Many underage students attempt to use fake IDs to purchase alcohol. In Maryland, possessing a fake ID can lead to additional charges, often more serious than underage drinking itself. A fake ID offense can result in criminal charges of fraud, identity theft or forgery, which may result in steeper penalties, including jail time, higher fines and the possibility of a permanent criminal record.
Additional potential consequences
Beyond fines, an underage drinking charge can result in other consequences, including community service, mandatory alcohol education programs or probation. While underage drinking may seem like a minor issue, it can have lasting effects on a student’s life, particularly if the violation leads to a criminal record and/or academic consequences.
Beyond legal penalties, underage drinking can result in serious consequences on a student’s academic and social life. Many Maryland colleges and universities have their own disciplinary procedures for students caught drinking underage, which can lead to academic probation, suspension or expulsion.
Ultimately, while getting caught underage drinking may feel like a rite of passage, it can result in truly negative consequences. As a result, defending vigorously against such charges is generally wise.