Underage Consumption/Posession of Alcohol (no driving)
Several of my friends and I were camping at Assateague State Park and we were caught by the Park Rangers. Six of us received citations for underage drinking resulting in a fine of $125 or we are allowed to contest the charge in court. Of the 6 people, 2 blew a .01, 2 blew a .02, 1 blew .043, and another blew .08. As it is a national park where could we go to plead our case in court and how would we go about doing so as we are underage? Would our chances be good for winning in court? How bad is a citation and what would the consequences be for us? Any information you could provide would be greatly appreciated.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: Underage Consumption/Posession of Alcohol (no driving)
This will likely take place in federal court. I do not recommend representing yourself in federal court if you plan on contesting this charge.
Re: Underage Consumption/Posession of Alcohol (no driving)
There are federal and state components to the parks on Assateague Island. I believe the southern end is subject to Virginia state jurisdiction while the areas to the north are under federal and Maryland state jurisdiction.
Your question includes contradictory terms in your reference to Assateague "State" park and
"national" park. Until you are certain as to which kind of parkland you were actually on when the citations were issued, there's no way to reliably respond to your question.