What Are the Legal Consequences of Alcohol Misuse?

Legal Consequences for Minors

For those under the legal drinking age, consuming alcohol can lead to harsh penalties, as laws are particularly strict when it comes to underage drinking. These laws are designed to protect minors from the risks associated with alcohol use.

Penalties and Fines for Minors

Minors caught drinking³ can be charged with a misdemeanor and may face fines or community service. According to the North Carolina Department of Public Safety, 

A person under the age of 21 caught purchasing, attempting to purchase or possessing alcohol will be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor. Sentencing is left to the judge’s discretion. If convicted, the Division of Motor Vehicles revokes that person’s driver’s license.

Minors caught drinking and driving⁴ can be arrested for a DUI, have their driver’s license suspended, and must complete a court-ordered DUI program. 

Impact on Future Opportunities 

In addition to immediate legal action, underage drinking can impact your life well into the future. A criminal record can affect your career opportunities, as employers often ask about legal history.⁵ 

Alcohol-Related Crimes

Because people tend to lose their judgment under its influence, alcohol is associated with increased crime rates⁶—especially violent crime. 

Types of Alcohol-Related Crimes

Some of the most common alcohol-related crimes include:

• Assault: Alcohol lowers inhibitions, making people with underlying aggression or violent tendencies more prone to acting on them.
• Vandalism: Damaging property, such as breaking windows or defacing buildings, can be tied to alcohol misuse.
• Theft: Impaired decision-making can lead to impulsive actions, like stealing something without considering the consequences.

Legal Consequences

Being convicted of an alcohol-related crime can result in fines, probation, or jail sentencing, depending on the crime. 

Impact on Criminal Record

Depending on the state you live in, alcohol-related crimes may stay on your record permanently, affecting everything from your ability to secure employment to traveling outside the country. You might also face more severe penalties for repeat offenses.

Alcohol and the Workplace

Alcohol abuse doesn’t just affect your personal life; it can also have legal and professional consequences in the workplace. Many employers have strict policies on alcohol use, particularly during working hours. The United States Office of Personnel Management recommends the following best practices regarding employees caught drinking in the workplace:⁷ 

• Supervisors or human resources staff should “gather any documentation of performance or conduct problems” and confront the employee.
• If they’re concerned about your substance use, they may refer you to their EAP or an addiction treatment program. 
• They may stage an intervention.
• If necessary, they can take disciplinary action.

However, this is up to your employer’s discretion. 

Many employers have zero-tolerance policies regarding alcohol in the workplace. If you’re found drinking on the job or showing up intoxicated, you could be suspended or even lose your job. These rules are even stricter in safety-sensitive industries like construction or transportation, which sometimes enforce random alcohol testing.

Alcohol and Domestic Violence

While alcohol doesn’t directly cause domestic violence,⁸ it’s often a factor in such incidents. 

Alcohol impairs judgment and lowers inhibitions, which for some people leads to increased aggression and abuse.

Legal Actions in Domestic Violence Cases

In cases where alcohol is linked to domestic violence, the legal consequences can be severe. Victims may seek protective orders or file charges, and offenders can face arrest, jail time, and mandatory counseling programs. Courts usually take these cases seriously, especially if alcohol is involved.

If you feel unsafe due to abuse at home, the National Domestic Violence Hotline offers 24/7, confidential support. Call (800) 799-SAFE, text “START” to 88788, or visit www.thehotline.org. 

Find Help for Alcohol Addiction

Problem drinking complicates life in all kinds of ways—and it can ramp up into legal trouble before you know it. If you’re worried about the consequences of your drinking but having a hard time quitting, it may help to do so with professional support. Plenty of resources are available to help you start the work of changing your life. Search for an alcohol addiction treatment center that fits your needs and contact their admissions team today.  

Frequently Asked Questions About the Legal Consequences of Alcohol Misuse

Can Alcohol Misuse Lead to Jail Time? 

Yes, alcohol misuse can result in jail time, especially in cases like driving under the influence (DUI), alcohol-related assaults, or domestic violence incidents. The severity of the offense, whether it’s a first-time or repeat offense, and if injuries are involved, all influence potential jail sentences.

What Are the Legal Consequences of Public Intoxication? 

Public intoxication can lead to fines, arrest, or community service. In some cases, you may face probation or be required to attend an alcohol education program. A conviction could also lead to a permanent criminal record.

What Are the Legal Penalties for Underage Drinking? 

If you’re caught drinking underage, you may have to pay fines, do community service, or have your driver’s license suspended—even if driving isn’t involved. A criminal record from underage alcohol offenses can also affect future employment opportunities.