Legal Question in Criminal Law in Pennsylvania

Underage drinking

I have primary physical custody of my 15 yr old son. While on court ordered weekend visitation at his father's house, his father had him and our 18 yr old son (as well as the younger son's friend and older son's girl friend) arrested for underage drinking in his house. He was appanently asleep when this happened. Since the 15 yr old was under his supervision and in his custody for the weekend, am I required to take responsibility for my son going to the court appearance & paying fines involved or should Dad handle this whole thing since the kid was in his custody? Does it matter which parent takes him?


Asked on 9/19/05, 4:53 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Mark Johns Mark Johns, Esquire

Re: Underage drinking

Never plead guilty before speaking with a lawyer. If your son was in his father's house there may be defenses to the charges. As primary custodian you should take charge of the defense, but may wish to get the father to contribute to the defense. I offer free consultations.

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Answered on 9/19/05, 5:08 pm
Konrad Jarzyna The Law Offices of Cozzi & Jarzyna

Re: Underage drinking

I agree with Attorney Johns, there could be a valid defense. I have represented hundreds of juveniles and it is very important that both parents show up at the hearing, if they can. It shows family support which will make it more likely for a kid to be released back home. As far as the fines, a judge or a probation officer will want to see the juvenile pay for what he has done through community service etc. When you are in front of a judge put the differences between you and your son's father aside.

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Answered on 9/19/05, 6:01 pm


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