Being caught with alcohol as a minor in Missouri can lead to more than just a slap on the wrist. Whether it’s your teenager or you’re a college student under 21, a Minor in Possession (MIP) charge can result in fines, probation, loss of driving privileges, and a permanent criminal record.

At KC Defense Counsel, we help clients in Kansas City and across Missouri defend against underage alcohol charges and keep their records clean.

WHAT IS A MINOR IN POSSESSION (MIP) CHARGE IN MISSOURI?

Under Missouri Revised Statute § 311.325, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to:

Purchase or attempt to purchase alcohol
Possess alcohol (even unopened)
Be visibly intoxicated
Have a detectable blood alcohol content (BAC) while operating a motor vehicle

Even just holding a beer at a party can result in an MIP charge.

COMMON SITUATIONS THAT LEAD TO “MIP” CHARGES

Being caught with alcohol at a party
Using a fake ID to buy alcohol
Riding in a car with open containers
Being stopped by police while under the influence
Getting pulled over with alcohol in your system

You don’t have to be drinking or drunk to get charged—possession alone is enough.

WHAT ARE THE PENALTIES FOR “MIP” IN MISSOURI?

Missouri treats MIP charges seriously, especially for repeat offenses. Penalties can include:

First Offense (Infraction or Misdemeanor):

Fine up to $300
Possible driver’s license suspension for 30 days
May be eligible for diversion programs to avoid a conviction

Second Offense:

Class A misdemeanor
Up to 1 year in jail
Fine up to $1,000
90-day license suspension

Third or Subsequent Offense:

Class A misdemeanor
Same penalties as above, with 1-year driver’s license revocation

In some cases, school disciplinary action may also follow—especially for college students at UMKC, Rockhurst, or surrounding Kansas City campuses.

WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR DRIVER’S LICENSE AFTER A MISSOURI “MIP” CHARGE?

If you’re convicted of MIP, the Missouri Department of Revenue may suspend your license, even if the offense didn’t involve a vehicle.

The length of suspension depends on the number of prior offenses:

1st offense: 30 days
2nd offense: 90 days
3rd or more: 1-year revocation

Our experienced and affordable defense attorneys at KC Defense Counsel can help you fight to keep your license or apply for limited driving privileges.

CAN A MINOR IN POSSESSION CHARGE BE EXPUNGED?

Yes, under certain conditions. If this is your first alcohol-related offense and you complete all court requirements, you may be eligible to expunge the MIP conviction after 1 year.

An expungement removes the charge from your criminal record, helping you move on without lasting consequences for a youthful mistake.

CONTACT A MISSOURI MINOR IN POSSESSION CHARGES LAWYER TODAY

We understand that people make mistakes, especially young people. Our criminal defense attorneys will:

Fight to get the charge dismissed or reduced
Negotiate diversion or probation when possible
Help protect your criminal record
Work to avoid or reverse license suspension

Don’t let an MIP charge affect your future education, job opportunities, or financial aid.

ARRESTED FOR “MIP” IN KANSAS CITY? CALL KC DEFENSE COUNSEL TODAY

If you or your child has been charged with Minor in Possession in Missouri, don’t plead guilty without speaking to a lawyer. Call KC Defense Counsel now for a free, confidential consultation with an experienced Kansas City criminal defense attorney near me. We’ll protect your rights and help you get your life back on track.