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LACE Law, LLC Legal Blog

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Underage Drinking Charges and College Students in Atlantic County, NJ

On Behalf of

LACE Law, LLC |

Dec 23, 2025

| Criminal Defense

College students in Atlantic County can face severe consequences when charged with alcohol-related offenses before turning 21. What may seem like a one-time mistake at a party or social event can have long-term effects on your education, career opportunities, and personal life. At LACE Law, our criminal defense attorney focuses on protecting your future and reducing the lasting impact of underage drinking charges.

Academic and Institutional Consequences

Your college or university may impose disciplinary measures for underage drinking. Stockton University has a zero-tolerance policy, with stricter rules for fraternities and sororities. Our attorney helps you prepare for both legal and academic proceedings:

  • Academic Probation: Risk of losing good standing status
  • Parental Notification: Schools may inform your family directly
  • Housing Removal: Face eviction from campus dormitories
  • Scholarship Loss: Forfeit financial aid and awards
  • Activity Suspension: Lose eligibility for sports or clubs
  • Transcript Notation: Permanent disciplinary record documented
  • Suspension or Expulsion: Temporarily or permanently removed from the university

New Jersey takes alcohol violations seriously, and under N.J.S.A. 33:1-81, anyone under 21 who purchases or consumes alcoholic beverages faces mandatory penalties. Our attorney has defended countless college students against these charges and knows how to build an effective defense:

  • License Suspension: Lose driving privileges for six months
  • Community Service: Complete up to 30 hours required
  • Fines and Fees: Pay up to $500 plus court costs
  • Alcohol Education Programs: Attend mandatory substance awareness classes
  • Criminal Record: May appear on background checks, affecting future opportunities

Long-Term Impacts

At LACE Law, we fight to keep your record clean. A conviction for underage drinking can create obstacles that extend well beyond your college years. Potential long-term impacts of underage drinking convictions are as follows:

  • Employment Barriers: Background checks reveal criminal history
  • Graduate School Applications: Admissions committees review your record
  • Professional Licensing Issues: Certain careers require clean backgrounds
  • Security Clearance Denial: Government positions become inaccessible
  • Immigration Consequences: Visa applications may face complications

Potential Defense Strategies for Underage Drinking Charges

Every case poses distinct challenges and circumstances that we are prepared to overcome. Our Atlantic County criminal defense attorney evaluates all available evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We develop tailored defense strategies designed to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation:

  • Challenging the legality of the initial stop or search
  • Questioning the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood test results
  • Disputing witness identification or testimony
  • Seeking diversionary program eligibility
  • Negotiating reduced charges or dismissal
  • Deferred adjudication or diversion programs for first-time offenders

Consult an Atlantic County Criminal Defense Lawyer

When underage drinking charges threaten your college career and future opportunities, you need an experienced legal advocate on your side. Our firm provides personalized attention to every case and fights aggressively to protect your rights and seek dismissals. Call (609) 225-4065 or complete our online contact form today to schedule a meeting with an Atlantic County defense attorney who is on your side throughout the legal process.