While underage drinking is common in Virginia, hundreds of college and high school students are charged with underage possession of alcohol each year at parties, in vehicles and at concerts and other events. In some cases, a young person may be charged because of his or her association with a group, even without proof that he or she was drinking.

If you or your child has been charged with underage possession of alcohol, you are probably concerned about how the charges may impact the future. An underage drinking conviction will stay on your criminal record, and it comes with a mandatory minimum fine of $500 (or 50 hours community service) and a mandatory six-month loss of license.