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Can I lose my driver license for a minor in possession of alcohol ticket in Utah?

Possession or consumption of alcohol by a minor is typically charged as a class B misdemeanor in Utah.  In addition to potential jail time and fines for a criminal conviction, you may also lose your driver license.  Under current Utah law, the Utah Driver License Division is required to suspend a minor's driver license for up to one year for a first violation of Utah Code 32B-4-409.  A second violation will result in a two-year suspension of your driver license.  Having an experienced Utah criminal defense attorney on your side can give you the best chance of avoiding a conviction and keeping your driver license.

Under Utah Code 53-3-219, the Driver License Division is required to suspend your driver license upon a finding by a court that you have violated Utah Code 32B-4-409 (unlawful purchase, possession, or consumption of alcohol by a minor).  In many cases, even entering into a plea in abeyance agreement will still involve a finding by the court that you have violated Utah Code 32B-4-409.  Thus, even without a conviction, the Driver License Division may still suspend your license.  For a first violation, a court may order a reduction in the suspension period if you complete an educational series (e.g. Prime for Life).  For a second violation, your license may be suspended for two years.  Under current Utah law, the court is not authorized to reduce the suspension period for a second conviction.

If you are facing criminal prosecution in Utah for charges involving the purchase, possession, or consumption of alcohol by a minor, we can help.  With offices centrally located in Salt Lake City, we offer legal services to clients throughout Utah.  Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation with an experienced Utah criminal defense lawyer.



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  • Minor Possession Alcohol - MIP AttorneyDismissed - Minor in possession charge (MIP) was dismissed by prosecutor when defense analysis demonstrated that the police had failed to obtain necessary evidence against client. Police had raided a large party involving underage drinking. Several individuals were charged, but police did not obtain evidence showing that client had personally consumed or possessed alcohol. Case was dismissed.
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Serving Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, Utah, Cache, Tooele, Summit, Box Elder, and Wasatch Counties, and all of Utah.

Attorney Stephen Howard practices as part of the Canyons Law Group, LLC and Stephen W. Howard, PC.

Offices in Salt Lake and Davis Counties
560 South 300 East, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84111
952 S. Main St., Suite A, Layton, UT 84041

Call now to arrange for a confidential initial consultation with an experienced and effective Utah criminal defense lawyer.

In Salt Lake City, call 801-449-1409.
In Davis County, call 801-923-4345.

Stephen W. Howard, PC

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