Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

Alcohol to a minor

I was at a casino with some friends for a bachlorette party. All 6 of us were over 21 and 1 girl was 18. I had a few drinks and gave the 18 yr old two sips of my drink. The cameras caught what happend and kicked us out of the casino for 72 hrs but the police came and gave a us a criminal citation. What happens now? Do I need an attorney for two sips out of my glass? I did not purchase alcohol for her it just happened she had a sip out of mine. What should I do??


Asked on 1/02/08, 11:26 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
James J. White, attorney Law Offices of Smith & White, PLLC

Re: Alcohol to a minor

You need to go to court on your criminal citation. You should hire an attorney if you can afford one. Otherwise, the court will appoint a public defender to assist you. You should plea not guilty as it may be difficult to prove what was in the cup when you gave a drink to the girl. If you are in Western Washington contact me directly for further assistance.

At your service,

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Answered on 1/06/08, 5:10 pm
Paul Ferris Law Office of Paul T. Ferris

Re: Alcohol to a minor

The violation is providing alcohol to a minor. As you are not a parent, there is no defense. The location and whether you purchased alocohol if irrelevant.

Camera's cannot, however, determine what is contained in a glass. Absent a convefession, there is only circumstantial evidence.

Enter a plea of not guilty and retain an attorney. There is a good chance you can keep your record clean. If you cannot afford to hire an attornmey, apply for a court-appointed lawyer.

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Answered on 1/03/08, 3:22 pm


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