Columbus Minor in Possession Lawyer

In situations where your child is accused of being in possession of illegal or controlled substances, taking action could protect their future. Understanding the law and your rights is essential before heading into a courtroom.

At Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt, a minor in possession lawyer in Columbus can help you know how to navigate this legal process with confidence. Our Columbus criminal defense lawyer has helped more than 15,000 clients.

Why Trust Our Criminal Defense Lawyer in Columbus with Your Case

A minor in possession is a serious crime simply because it carries ongoing implications that could impact a person’s life for decades. At Koffel | Brininger | Nesbitt, we have 30 years of experience protecting the rights of those facing such charges. Our nationally recognized criminal defense firm is honest, transparent, and committed to our clients.

We are proven:

Recognized as one of the top 1% of best lawyers
99% positive client ratings across the board
More than 30 years of combined experience

As an award-winning legal team, we know the importance of fighting for justice. We represent people who are facing an uphill battle with limited solutions.

We believe in leading our clients through all of their legal options and representing them aggressively. When you contact us, you gain an advocate you can rely on.

For a legal consultation with a minor in possession lawyer serving Columbus, call (614) 884-1100

Explaining the Charge of Minor in Possession in Columbus, Ohio

The Ohio Revised Code (section 4301.69) deals with underage person offenses in the state. In the state, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol. Under section 2925.11, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to be in possession of a controlled substance.

Under the law, a first-time offender in a non-violent offense could face probation or a diversion program. A diversion program provides an alternative to a formal court process, and completing it can lead to the dismissal of charges against the individual. This can also lead to the juvenile’s record being sealed and expunged. For many, this is the ideal first step.

Probation may be applicable in some situations. During probation, a minor will need to meet specific conditions, including performing community service, attending school, and completing counseling sessions, under the watchful eye of a probation officer. Talk to our Columbus drug crime lawyer today.

Columbus Minor in Possession Lawyer Near Me (614) 884-1100

There Are Stricter Penalties That May Be Applicable

In some situations, a minor in possession charge may be elevated. For example, if the minor committed a crime prior to this or if violence was involved, the risk of more severe consequences may apply.

Examples include:

Detention, especially in the event of repeat offenses and crimes associated with drug possession. This may lead to home confinement, placement in a group home facility, or placement in juvenile detention.
Loss of driving privileges may apply when the offense occurred while driving a vehicle.
Adult prosecution may be applicable, though in rare cases. This may occur in situations where a person is habitually offending or where violence was involved in the incident

These are extreme cases. Yet, as a parent, it is critical to take every step possible to protect their future. Hiring a lawyer is one of the most effective ways of providing that protection.

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Types of Controlled Substances for Minors in Columbus, Ohio

Ohio law restricts individuals from using a variety of substances. Minor in possession charges may apply in these situations. Examples of controlled substances for minors include:

Marijuana
Cocaine
Heroin
Ecstasy
LSD
Prescription medications (without a valid prescription for themselves), including opioids, Xanax, Adderall, Ritalin
Alcohol

As you face concerns about your options and what steps to take, several factors are worth keeping in mind. Most importantly, your child’s future could be at risk if no changes occur. This is why hiring our Columbus minor in possession attorney is so critical to protecting your future.

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What to Expect in Juvenile Court Systems

Many times, juvenile court systems will treat both drug and alcohol violations in the same way. This often means that the minor will face enrollment in a drug or alcohol program if this is their first case.

They will likely lose their license for at least six months and have to pay a fine. Probation is also likely to be applicable, and with that will come with random urine screenings.

Keep in mind that a conviction of a minor in possession charge will carry ongoing risks. What is particularly worrisome is what comes after such convictions. They will have a criminal record.

That means they may struggle to obtain federal student loans, lose eligibility to enter the military, or face limited employment opportunities due to pre-employment background screening. Browse our case results to learn about our success stories.

What We Do to Help

Our Columbus minor in possession lawyer can help through our intensive handling of their criminal case. Our program will increase the likelihood of diversion, dismissal, or a reduction in charges.

We represent teens by placing them into a 90 to 120-day program that has numerous conditions they must follow. That includes:

They learn they are done experimenting with drugs and alcohol. There is no deviation from this.
They lose their privacy on their phones, computers, room, or personal property.
They will have random professional drug testing completed.
A 10 pm curfew is put in place.

When 100% compliance with these terms occurs, you will find that your son or daughter is more likely to have a better outcome with their criminal case.

By imposing these pre-court conditions, it becomes clear that your teen is changing, and that evidence is critical when they do face a prosecutor for their actions. By leveraging this program, we aim to keep your child’s record clean for when they become an adult.