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Criminal charges

minor in possession

Laws in each state generally require a person to be 21 years of age or older to possess alcoholic beverages. Some states make limited exceptions, such as when underage persons have parental permission and are on private property. The penalties for this offense known as a minor in possession (MIP) or possession of alcohol under the legal age (PAULA) vary from state to state. All 50 states and the District of Columbia also have laws that require a person to be 21 years of age or older to purchase alcoholic beverages.

In Iowa, the legal age for possession and purchase of alcoholic beverages is 21 years old, in accordance with federal law and state statutes. Iowa does make exceptions for underage persons to possess alcoholic beverages under certain conditions, such as when they are on private property and have parental consent. However, these exceptions are limited and specific. The state refers to the offense of underage possession as Possession of Alcohol Under the Legal Age (PAULA). Penalties for a PAULA offense can include fines, mandatory education or intervention programs, and community service. The severity of the penalties can vary depending on the circumstances of the offense and whether the individual has prior violations.

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Criminal charges

minor in possession

Individual & Family Legal Plan

Articles

Iowa State Code

Criminal charges

minor in possession

Iowa State Code

Articles