Minor in Possession of Alcohol (MIP) – California Business & Professions Code section 25662

California Business & Professions Code section 25662 commonly referred to as “minor in possession” or an “MIP” punishes people under 21 who are in possession of alcohol in a public area. Thus, it is not a violation of B & P 25662 to be under 21 and possess alcohol in a private space such as inside a house or apartment or in a backyard. However, police routinely disregard this “public” possession requirement and issue citations or arrest people for MIPs at private house parties. Furthermore, minor in possession can be a misdemeanor crime entailing jail time and/or probation. Also, a MIP conviction can trigger a one year drivers license suspension under California Vehicle Code section 13202.5. Most importantly, a minor in possession conviction can mar a person’s background and negatively impact their ability to get jobs in the future. As such, if you are arrested or receive a citation for section 25662/minor in possession, it is important that you have an experienced criminal attorney like Jonathan Turner in your corner. Davis and Sacramento criminal defense attorney Jonathan Turner has successfully represented a number of individuals, including UC Davis and Sacramento State students, accused of minor in possession of alcohol. Do not jeopardize your future with a minor in possession offense – contact Davis attorney Jonathan Turner for a free consultation.