First Name:

Last Name:

Telephone:

Email:

Address:

City:

State:

Zipcode:

Incident Details:

Yes, I would like to receive
the Morgan & Morgan newsletter.

form base
Home » Consumer Information » Crime

Liquor Laws

Alcohol is legal for anyone over the age of 21, but those who imbibe must follow a few rules.

Public Intoxication

This is commonly known as "drunk and disorderly conduct". On its own, it is a minor offense unless the intoxication leads the person to commit other crimes, such as operating a vehicle.

A person who is found to be a public nuisance due to excessive alcohol consumption will most likely be taken to a jail holding cell (often known as a Drunk Tank) and kept overnight or until they have sobered up. A fine may be added to the punishment as well.

DUI

Driving under the influence of alcohol is not only illegal, it is very dangerous to do. Alcohol impairs the senses and slows down your reaction time, leaving you at a diminished capacity and unable to properly handle a motorized vehicle. Drinking before driving is a major factor in the majority of car accidents throughout the nation.

Every state has laws against driving while intoxicated. Aside from a DUI, there is also a DWI charge of Driving While Intoxicated or Impaired, or the Per Se offense which involves driving with a blood alcohol level of .08% or more. In some states, the legal level is a lower .05%.

Drinking and Driving When Under the Age of 21

Every state has adapted a zero tolerance rule for people who are less than 21 years old and are found driving under the influence. That means they will be immediately subject to arrest and to having their license suspended or revoked.

Minimum DUI Punishments

The law stipulates minimum consequences for people who are convicted of a DUI. The level of punishment becomes increasingly severe the more times the offense is committed.

The first DUI will come with a fine of $600, an entire year spent on driving prohibition and the possibility of time spent in jail. The second automatically earns the perpetrator a 14 day jail sentence as well as 2 years of driving prohibition. The third includes a 90 day jail term and 3 years of driving prohibition. Continued offenses may result in the permanent loss of your license, having a breathalyzer installed in your car which forces you to test your blood alcohol level before the car will be allowed to start and much lengthier jail sentences.

Alcohol is meant to be enjoyed in moderation, and should not be abused or overdone. Anyone who has been drinking should nevert be allowed to drive until the have completely sobered up.