Lakeville, MN asked in Criminal Law for Minnesota

Q: I recently failed a carding compliance check at the gas station I work at.

Let me start by saying this is my first violation for anything like this.I asked the guy for his ID and he ignored and said this is it, I had a line and just wanted to have the transaction done with and not start an argument over his ID, so I just let it slide. (I know dumb on my part, but I just got over worried about other people getting impatient) Officer comes in a few minutes later informs me I sold to a minor and takes me to the back room. He takes all of my information and tells me he will write a report and send it to a separate team? To look at the situation and decide what to do. What would any possible punishments for this be?

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3 Lawyer Answers
William Bailey
William Bailey
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Minneapolis, MN
  • Licensed in Minnesota

A: This is a criminal offense. You could face jail time, community service, probation, and fines and fees. A lawyer may be able to help you keep this off your record and minimize the consequences.

Thomas C Gallagher
Thomas C Gallagher
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Minneapolis, MN
  • Licensed in Minnesota

A: In most instances, a violation of Minnesota Statutes Section 340A.503, subd. 2 (1) "to sell, barter, furnish, or give alcoholic beverages to a person under 21 years of age" is a misdemeanor crime. The maximum punishment for a misdemeanor is 90 days jail and $1,000 fine. But most will get zero jail. The real penalty for most would be a criminal conviction record, which could harm future employment, rental and other opportunities. To best avoid that, retain me or another experienced criminal defense attorney.

Jonathan Matthew Holson
Jonathan Matthew Holson
Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Saint Cloud, MN
  • Licensed in Minnesota

A: The potential charge is a gross misdemeanor and carries a maximum sentence of a year in jail and a $3,000 fine. An attorney can help minimize the consequences for you. Get representation ASAP.

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