It’s illegal for anyone to possess or drink alcohol under the age of 21 in Florida, and most teens are well aware of this. As a parent, you certainly also understand that your teenager should not be drinking alcohol.
However, teens are arrested consistently on minor-in-possession (MIP) charges. Others face DUI charges after drinking and driving. These charges can have a major impact on their future, so why is it that teenagers are willing to break the law?
Wanting to feel older
One reason that teenagers drink is that they want to feel older. They often see adults or even college students drinking, perhaps in real life or in popular media. They know that they’re not supposed to drink until they’re 21, but they do it because they want to feel grown-up.
Wanting to fit in
Another reason is that social pressure can cause them to drink. Say that a 19-year-old is in their freshman year of college when they attend a party. Most of the other college students at the party are drinking. The teenager wants to be accepted and fit in with this group, so they may also decide to consume alcohol even though they know it’s illegal.
Relaxation and stress relief
Finally, many young people use alcohol for similar reasons as adults: It helps them relax. They may be stressed out by their college classes or their social situation. They turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism.
Legal defense options
Regardless of the specific reason, if your teenager has been arrested on alcohol-related charges, you are likely concerned about their future. Be sure you know what legal defense options you have.