A fake I.D. may look incredibly tempting to a minor. However, owning a fictitious driver’s license as a minor can result in criminal charges. Misrepresentation of age offenses carries serious penalties. These consequences can affect a minor’s educational or professional goals.
If you or your child has been charged with misrepresentation of age, it is time to act now. Criminal charges can follow a minor into adulthood. Do not let a single event change you or your child’s future. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to navigate these legal complexities.
Misrepresentation of Age Defense Lawyer in Irving, Dallas, Carrolton, Richardson, TX
Owning a fake I.D. may seem desirable to a minor at the moment. Having access to alcoholic beverages might seem like a college student staple and seemingly “normal.” However, Texas law disagrees. The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code states that misrepresenting one’s age for alcohol is a criminal offense.
Contact the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy today at (972) 233-5700 for a consultation about your alleged offense in Irving, Dallas, Carrolton, Richardson, and surrounding areas of Dallas County, Texas. Our firm will work to potentially get your criminal charges reduced or dismissed.
Misrepresentation of Age Defined under Texas Law
For an individual to be charged with misrepresentation of age by a minor they must be under 21 years of age. The Texas Statute §106.07 defines misrepresentation of age by a minor as:
- An offense in which a minor falsely states that he or she is 21 years of age or older; or
- Presents any document that indicates that he or she is 21 years of age or older to a person engaged in selling or serving alcoholic beverages.
Normally, a minor convicted of misrepresentation of age is charged with a Class C misdemeanor. If the minor has multiple convictions their penalty is enhanced.
Penalties for Misrepresentation of Age under §106.07
Misrepresentation of age charges can seem inconsequential due to television’s humor regarding fake I.D.s. However, Texas law considers misrepresentation of age by a minor as a criminal offense. Texas Statute §106.07 states that an individual charged with misrepresentation of age is subject to a Class C misdemeanor.
Texas law explains that if an individual is convicted of a Class C misdemeanor, they are required to pay a fine up to $500.
Additionally, if the minor already has had at least two convictions for a related offense their penalty could be enhanced. Related offenses for this charge can be drinking under the influence (DUI), minor in the consumption of alcohol (MIC), or minor in possession of alcohol (MIP).
The punishment for multiple convictions of alcohol offenses plus a misrepresentation of age charge is as follows:
- A maximum of 180 days in jail;
- A possible fine up to $2,000; or
- A combination of the two.
Additional Resources
Dallas County Juvenile Department – Visit Dallas County’s website and read about the mission of the Dallas County Juvenile Department. See how they try to assist referred youth in becoming productive, law-abiding citizens, while promoting public safety and victim restoration.
TBAC Alcoholic Beverage Code Referencing Minors – Visit the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and read their Alcoholic Beverage Code sections referring to minors. Learn the different various charges, specifics, and penalties a minor can face regarding alcohol.
Fake IDs: Are They Worth It? – Visit the Southern Methodists University’s website and read an article surrounding fake IDs. Find answers to frequently asked questions surrounding fake IDs, and find resources for further fake ID information.
Frequently Asked Questions about Juvenile Offenders – Visit Wise County’s website and learn about frequently asked questions regarding juvenile offenders. Read about the process of the juvenile courts, and the expectations a person can have while battling a juvenile offense.
Find A Dallas County Defense Attorney for Misrepresentation of Age Charges | Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy
Young adults make mistakes. It is a part of growing up and navigating the world. However, these mistakes should not follow you into adulthood. Do not let a misrepresentation of age charge mark your criminal record, and contact our attorneys.
Contact the Law Offices of Richard C. McConathy today at (972) 233-5700 for a consultation about your alleged offense in Irving, Dallas, Carrolton, Richardson, and surrounding areas of Dallas County, Texas. Our firm will work to potentially get your criminal charges reduced or dismissed.