Minor in Possession of Alcohol - Utah Driver License Suspension
Driver License Suspension for Minor in Possession of Alcohol (MIP)
Q: How long will my license be suspended in Utah if I am convicted of being a minor in possession of alcohol?
A:
When a person is convicted in Utah of being a minor
in possession
of
alcohol (MIP) under Utah Code 32B-4-409, the court can issue
an order
suspending the person's driver license under Utah Code 53-3-219.
The length of the suspension can depend on whether the conviction is
for a first or second (or subsequent) offense.On a first MIP offense, the default suspension period one year. Utah law allows the court to order a shorter suspension period if the person completes an approved educational series. On a second offense, the suspension period is two years, and cannot be shortened by the court. Other penalties can include jail time and fines of up to $1900 (including surcharge).
A plea in abeyance may be used to avoid the driver license suspension by avoiding a conviction in the case. Keep in mind, however, that a plea in abeyance is a negotiated resolution that must be agreed upon by both the prosecutor and the judge. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you determine the best strategy for defending your case.
Finding a Utah Criminal Lawyer in Salt Lake City
If
you are facing charges of possession, consumption, or purchase of
alcohol by a minor in Utah, it is important to speak with an
experienced criminal defense
attorney. Although an alcohol possession
charge is relatively minor, the consequences can be severe and
long-lasting.While each case is different, it is always best to have an experienced criminal attorney on your side. Mr. Howard has successfully defended clients facing minor in possession (MIP) charges in Utah, and many much more serious misdemeanor and felony crimes.
Based in Salt Lake City, we represent clients throughout Utah. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.
RELATED CRIMINAL DEFENSE TOPICS
What charges can be filed for providing alcohol to a minor?
What should I do if I am arrested for DUI?
Will my driver license be suspended for custodial interference?
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Not Guilty - Client was charged with aggravated assault for allegedly pointing handgun at and threatening another driver during a road rage incident. Defense investigation and analysis, combined with effective cross-examination at trial indicated the alleged victim was the initial aggressor and suported client's self-defense claim. Jury acquitted client at trial.
Dismissed on Appeal - DUI case was dismissed after a successful appeal where the Utah Court of Appeals reversed the trial court's denial of the defense motion to suppress. Without the suppressed evidence, the prosecutor acknowledged that they did not have sufficient evidence to proceed to trial and the case was dismissed.
Felony Reduced - Client with prior felony conviction was granted a 402 reduction to the misdemeanor level over the objection of the prosecutor. Based on information provided to the court in support of the defense motion, the judge ruled in favor of the defense.
Dismissal - Client was charged with first-degree felony home burglary and facing potential life in prison. Defense analysis revealed flaws in prosecutor's case which led to abeyance agreement intended to lead to a full dismissal of the case.
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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
Serving Salt Lake, Davis, Weber, Utah, Cache, Tooele, Summit, Box Elder, and Wasatch Counties, and all of Utah.
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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