Minor in Possession (MIP) in Seattle

Kids make mistakes. It's a natural part of growing up. Unfortunately, those mistakes can lead to legal trouble, such as being charged with Minor in Possession (MIP). In Washington state, an MIP charge can have serious consequences, potentially jeopardizing your child's future with penalties that include fines, license suspension, and a criminal record.

At our firm, we don't believe that a child's life should be derailed over one misstep, especially for something as common as an MIP. Our attorneys understand the seriousness of MIP charges, but we also know how to fight them effectively. We focus on reducing penalties, securing dismissals, and exploring diversion programs that keep your child's record clean. With over 20 years of experience in Western Washington, we're familiar with Seattle's legal system and its judges and prosecutors handling these cases. Using this knowledge, we craft a strong defense.

Your child's future is too important to leave to chance. Let us help protect it. Our MIP defense attorneys in Seattle are standing by to provide the skilled representation your family needs. Contact our law offices today for a consultation. Together, we'll work toward a resolution that safeguards your child's opportunities and future.

Your Child Deserves Seattle's Trusted MIP Lawyers

For over 20 years, our firm has been defending Minor in Possession charges in Seattle and across Western Washington. We've earned a strong reputation for delivering exceptional legal representation. With an understanding of the serious implications an MIP charge can have on a young person's future, we're ready to fight MIP charges. As seasoned defense attorneys, we are well-versed in Washington state laws and know how to leverage the nuances of these laws to build a robust defense.

Our extensive experience in Seattle's courts gives us unique insight into the tendencies of local judges and prosecutors and the procedures and programs available in King County. We explore all potential alternatives, including diversion programs, deferred prosecution, and outright dismissals, to minimize the impact on your child's record. Whether your child's charges came from an incident at a high school party in Ballard or a concert in the Seattle Center, we will fight for their future.

Our firm is known for aggressive defense strategies, strong arguments, and unwavering commitment to our clients. From challenging the admissibility of evidence to negotiating favorable resolutions, we will protect your child's rights at every stage of the legal process. If your child is facing an MIP charge in Seattle, don't leave their future to chance. Contact us today for a consultation, and let us use our expertise to fight for a favorable outcome.

What Are The Penalties For An MIP In Seattle?

A Minor in Possession can have immediate legal penalties and long-lasting consequences that affect a young person's future. Washington classifies an MIP as a gross misdemeanor. The criminal penalties include:

• Jail Time: Up to 364 days in jail, though this is uncommon for first-time offenders. Courts often impose probation or alternative sentences.
• Fines: Up to $5,000 in fines
• Driver's License Suspension:
  • First Offense: A 1-year suspension or until the individual turns 17, whichever is longer (RCW 46.20.265)
  • Subsequent Offenses: Up to 2 years

Beyond the legal penalties, an MIP conviction can negatively impact a child's:

• College Admissions: Many colleges and universities require disclosure of criminal records during the application process. An MIP conviction could result in denial of admission or a more competitive admissions process.
• Scholarships And Financial Aid: A criminal record may disqualify students from certain scholarships or grants. Federal financial aid programs, like Pell Grants and student loans, can also be impacted, particularly for repeat offenses involving drugs or alcohol.
• School Admissions: Some schools in Washington state have strict codes of conduct that could lead to disciplinary actions for criminal convictions.
• Employment Opportunities: A criminal record makes it hard to pass a background check for part-time jobs or internships.
• Housing Applications: Many landlords perform criminal background checks, and an MIP could limit housing options.
• Insurance Premiums: Auto insurance rates may increase significantly, or coverage could be canceled altogether.

Our MIP defense attorneys in Seattle can fight to reduce these penalties and explore alternatives that protect your child's future.

Are There Alternative Punishments For MIPs In King County?

While the penalties are severe, many courts in Seattle offer alternatives to help young people avoid the worst outcomes. These include:

• Diversion Programs: Completion of alcohol education, community service, or counseling can lead to dismissal of charges and no criminal record.
• Deferred Prosecution: King County Courts may delay judgment and allow the minor to meet certain conditions like maintaining sobriety and completing probation.
• Expungement: In some cases, attorneys can help with expunging a conviction from the minor's record, restoring their opportunities.

If your child is facing an MIP charge, don't leave their future to chance. Contact our Seattle-based attorneys today, and we will fight to get them alternative sentencing.

Don't Leave Your Child's Future To Chance, Call Our Experienced Seattle MIP Attorneys

Seattle is a great place to be a teenager. From exploring the interactive exhibits at the Museum of Pop Culture to enjoying the scenic views at Alki Beach, there's no shortage of experiences for young people. Teens also love hanging out at Pike Place Market, checking out the latest exhibits at the Seattle Art Museum, and skating at the Seattle Center. Local programs like TeenTix even give teens access to arts and cultural events around our city.

However, we understand that sometimes, kids may make poor choices while enjoying Seattle's teen scene. As parents ourselves, we share the concerns and worries about our children's futures. We firmly believe that a simple, youthful mistake should not have a lasting negative impact on a child's life.

Our dedicated team of Seattle attorneys specializes in challenging MIP charges in King County Courts, so you can count on us to fight for your child's future. Contact us for a free consultation and learn how we can help you.

Seattle MIP Attorney

A minor in possession (MIP) charge is often the first time an individual has made contact with a police officer. This can be a startling and often an unfortunate, eye-opening experience of what the legal system really is (both for the minor and the parents).

An MIP is a gross misdemeanor, which means the maximum penalty is 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. No one is going to receive the maximum unless there are extraordinary circumstances. However, in addition to potential jail and fines, minors also face license suspension, probation, drug and alcohol evaluations, and court-ordered treatment.

What is often confusing for minors and parents is the fact that the court’s interpretation of “possession” is rather lose. It covers more than simply being caught with a cup of beer in your hand. Possession can include possession of alcohol in your body, meaning that if you drank alcohol and they can prove it, that is sufficient.

Additionally, supplying alcohol to a minor also falls under the same statute. This means it is also punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a $5,000 fine. These types of charges often appear after a Washington State Liquor Control board sting.

If you or your child are facing an MIP charge, do not hesitate to give our office a call. We understand it can be a traumatic situation for all involved, and we are here to answer your questions. Our experienced Seattle, WA criminal defense attorneys will help everyone involved get through the process with as little stress as possible.