Underage Possession Defense Lawyer Gloucester County — Protecting Your Child’s Future
An underage possession charge in Gloucester County, NJ, is a serious offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:33-15, carrying penalties that can impact a minor’s future. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for juveniles facing alcohol charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Superior Court of NJ, Gloucester Vicinage | New Jersey Legislature
New Jersey law strictly prohibits the possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages by anyone under the age of 21. This offense is not a simple juvenile mistake; it is a disorderly persons offense that creates a permanent record. A conviction can affect college admissions, scholarships, and future employment opportunities. An experienced underage possession defense lawyer Gloucester County is essential to handle this process and protect your child’s record.
New Jersey Underage Possession Law
The statute governing underage possession in New Jersey is N.J.S.A. 2C:33-15. It is a disorderly persons offense, which is New Jersey’s equivalent of a misdemeanor. The law applies to anyone under 21 who knowingly possesses or consumes an alcoholic beverage in any public place. This includes private property, unless the minor is accompanied by a parent or guardian. The Gloucester County Superior Court handles these cases, and the consequences are significant.
- Your child will receive a summons to appear in Gloucester County Superior Court.
- Consult with a minor in possession defense lawyer Gloucester County immediately to review the charges and police report.
- Your attorney will appear with your child at the initial court date and enter a plea.
- Your lawyer will work to negotiate a favorable resolution, such as a conditional discharge, which may include community service, alcohol education, and a period of probation.
- Upon successful completion of the court’s requirements, the charge may be dismissed, preventing a permanent record.
Penalties for Underage Possession in Gloucester County
In Gloucester County, underage possession of alcohol is a disorderly persons offense carrying a fine of up to $1,000, a possible driver’s license suspension of six months, and potential community service.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Underage Possession of Alcohol (First Offense) | Disorderly Persons Offense | Up to 6 months (rare for first offense) | Up to $1,000 | Mandatory 6-month suspension | Community service, alcohol education programs, permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Gloucester County Juvenile Cases
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of successful outcomes in juvenile cases, including those involving underage possession. Our approach is to treat each juvenile charge with the seriousness it deserves while aggressively seeking resolutions that protect the child’s future, such as conditional discharges that lead to dismissal.
Our team understands the specific procedures at the Gloucester County Superior Court. We know that a juvenile alcohol charge lawyer Gloucester County must act quickly to secure the best path forward, often aiming for diversion programs that avoid a permanent conviction. Our goal is to mitigate the immediate penalties and work toward an expungement of the record when eligible.
Local Defense for Gloucester County Families
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — New Jersey
44 Apple St, 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (609)-983-0003
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our New Jersey location serves clients throughout Gloucester County, including Woodbury, Washington Township, Deptford, and Glassboro. We represent families at the Gloucester County Superior Court in Woodbury. As a dedicated underage possession defense lawyer Gloucester County firm, we make ourselves accessible to provide guidance and strong representation during this stressful time.
Frequently Asked Questions: Underage Possession in NJ
Is underage possession a criminal offense in New Jersey?
Yes. Underage possession of alcohol is a disorderly persons offense under N.J.S.A. 2C:33-15, which is New Jersey’s equivalent of a misdemeanor. It creates a permanent criminal record if convicted.
Will my child lose their driver’s license for an underage possession charge?
It depends. A conviction for underage possession carries a mandatory six-month driver’s license suspension. However, a skilled juvenile alcohol charge lawyer Gloucester County can often negotiate for a conditional discharge, which upon successful completion avoids a conviction and the license suspension.
What is a conditional discharge for a minor in possession?
It is a diversionary program for first-time offenders. The minor pleads guilty but the judgment is withheld. They complete probation, community service, and alcohol education. After successful completion, the charge is dismissed, and there is no conviction on their record.
Can an underage possession charge be expunged?
Yes. If the charge results in a conviction, it can be expunged after a waiting period (typically 3 years for a disorderly persons offense). If the case is dismissed via conditional discharge, the records can often be expunged sooner. An attorney can guide you through the process.
Should I hire a lawyer for my child’s first underage possession ticket?
Yes. The consequences of a conviction are severe and long-lasting. An underage possession defense lawyer Gloucester County can work to have the charge dismissed or reduced, protecting your child’s future educational and employment opportunities.
If your child is facing an underage possession charge in Gloucester County, contact an experienced underage possession defense lawyer Gloucester County at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today for a consultation.
Attorney responsible for this advertisement: Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., 44 Apple St 1st Floor, Tinton Falls, NJ 07724.