Every year, thousands of high school graduates travel to Ocean City, Maryland, to celebrate Senior Week. Law enforcement is aware of this tradition all too well, and patrols increase on the beaches, boardwalk, and common house party areas. As a result, underage drinking charges are common during the last few weeks of June. 

If your child has been charged with underage drinking during Senior Week, it is important to understand the potential consequences and the steps you can take to protect their future.

Underage Drinking Laws in Maryland

Maryland law prohibits individuals under the age of 21 from possessing or consuming alcoholic beverages. During Senior Week, police officers frequently respond to reports of parties, hotel disturbances, beach gatherings, and other incidents where alcohol may be present.

Students may receive citations or face criminal charges for:

• Possession of alcohol by a person under 21
• Consumption of alcohol by a person under 21
• Using a fake ID to purchase alcohol 
• Public intoxication or disorderly conduct 

Even students who are not actively drinking can find themselves cited if officers believe they are in possession of alcohol or participating in prohibited activities. This means even holding an empty red solo cup could lead to a charge. 

A Citation Is Not "Just a Ticket"

One of the most common misconceptions among parents is that an underage drinking citation is simply a minor inconvenience. However, these cases can carry lasting consequences.

Depending on the circumstances, a conviction or finding of responsibility could negatively impact:

• College admissions
• Scholarships and financial aid opportunities
• Athletic eligibility
• Professional licensing applications
• Future employment background checks
• Security clearance opportunities

This means that one mistake made during Senior Week can follow them long after graduation. 

What Happens After an Underage Drinking Charge?

If your child receives a citation or is arrested during senior week, the first step is to understand the nature of the specific charge. Options are available depending on the child's age, prior record, and facts of the case. It is important to contact legal counsel right away to explore all the defense strategies available. 

Common Defenses in Underage Drinking Cases

While the facts of every case are unique, there are several defenses that could be available. 

Potential issues that may arise to poke holes in the prosecution's case could include: 

• Lack of actual possession of alcohol
• Insufficient evidence of consumption
• Mistaken identity
• Constitutional violations during police contact
• Improper searches or seizures
• Inaccurate witness statements

While these may not always apply to your unique situation, there are plenty of options when it comes to creating a defense strategy. An experienced defense attorney will review police reports, body camera footage, witness statements, and other evidence to determine whether legal defenses exist.

What Parents Should Do Immediately

If your child is charged during Senior Week, consider taking the following steps:

First, remain calm. Receiving a call that your child has been cited or arrested can be terrifying for a parent. However, panic often leads to poor decisions. Legal counsel can help to gather the facts, then take proper action.

Next, preserve all documents your child has received. This includes citations, tickets, court notices, and paperwork. 

Lastly, avoid discussing the case with anyone outside of legal counsel. Students might feel pressured to explain what happened to others, including law enforcement, other friends, or online. Be sure to consult an attorney before discussing the details of the incident to anyone. 

Protect Your Child's Future

A single mistake should not define a young person's future. Obtaining experienced legal guidance as early as possible can help ensure that all available options are explored and that your child's rights are protected throughout the process.

If your child has been charged with underage drinking during Senior Week in Ocean City, Maryland, call Steve Rakow at 410-600-3075. Steve has helped hundreds of young adults with alcohol related offenses, and will ensure your child's rights are protected through the process.

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