During the summer, many teenagers head to the Long Beach Island for a weekend of fun. While there are lots of things in this area that can be enjoyed legally, plenty of teens try to push the envelope by attempting to buy alcohol, get into clubs or both. Teens who decide to go down that route generally do so with a fake ID. Although there are many movies that make light of fake IDs, the reality is any teen who possesses or attempts to use one in LBI can face criminal charges and serious penalties.

Why Fake IDs Can Have Significant Legal Consequences

Police have confirmed that the number of teenagers attempting to use fake IDs significantly increases during the summer. And even though someone may only be a couple of years away from being able to legally drink and get into clubs, there are several reasons why fake IDs pose such a significant threat for teens who attempt to use them.

A big part of why fake IDs are a serious issue in LBI is over the last fifteen years, homeland security has remained a major issue in politics. As a result, legislators have created harsh penalties for crimes involving fraudulent government documents. Those types of documents include fake driver's license. By possessing one, a teen is taking a major risk.

The increased scrutiny of fraudulent government documents is why many liquor store owners and club employees in LBI now default to contacting police when they are presented with what they believe to be a fake ID.

While the exact way this type of charge is handled will depend on whether an individual is under or over the age of 18, many teens don't think about the long-term effects of being caught with a fake ID.

Laws for Underage Drinking and Fake IDs

Underage drinking is covered by section N.J.S.A. 2C:33-15 of New Jersey law. As a disorderly persons offense, this charge carries a fine of at least $500. That fine can be as high as $1,000, and this charge does include the possibility of up to six months of jail time.

Speaking with a Monmouth County Attorney About a Criminal Charge

What may be thought of as summer fun can quickly escalate into something much more serious. If you are facing charges for underage drinking or a fake ID in New Jersey, it's important to understand that this type of mistake can put a teen's future in jeopardy. Contact an experienced New Jersey attorney. For a free consultation with Villani & DeLuca, call us now at (609) 389-9470.