Caught with a Fake ID in Mississippi? Your Future is on the Line.
College life often revolves around social events, and in Mississippi's vibrant college towns, that can sometimes involve alcohol.
Unfortunately, the temptation to misrepresent your age can lead to serious legal trouble.
Possessing or displaying false identification is not a harmless prank; it's a crime with consequences that can haunt you for years to come.
Don't let a momentary lapse in judgment jeopardize your future.
If you've been charged with an offense related to misrepresenting your age, you need to act quickly and secure experienced legal representation.
Unfortunately, the temptation to misrepresent your age can lead to serious legal trouble.
Possessing or displaying false identification is not a harmless prank; it's a crime with consequences that can haunt you for years to come.
Don't let a momentary lapse in judgment jeopardize your future.
If you've been charged with an offense related to misrepresenting your age, you need to act quickly and secure experienced legal representation.
Understanding the Law: Mississippi Code Section 97-19-35 and Beyond
Mississippi law takes a hard stance on misrepresenting age. While Mississippi Code Section 97-19-35 is a key statute, it's not the only one.
In fact, there are multiple statutes that cover different aspects of this offense, with Miss. Code Ann. § 63-1-60 and Miss. Code Ann. § 45-35-13 being particularly relevant when the false identification involves a driver's license or state-issued ID card.
These laws make it illegal to:
In fact, there are multiple statutes that cover different aspects of this offense, with Miss. Code Ann. § 63-1-60 and Miss. Code Ann. § 45-35-13 being particularly relevant when the false identification involves a driver's license or state-issued ID card.
These laws make it illegal to:
- Misrepresent your age to purchase or possess alcohol.
- Possess or display any identification that falsely represents your age.
- Manufacture, sell, or transfer any document intended to misrepresent someone's age.
What Happens After an Arrest?
Getting caught with false identification can lead to a stressful encounter with law enforcement. You can expect the following:
- Arrest and Booking: You'll be taken into custody, transported to a detention center, and processed. This includes fingerprinting, photographing, and creating a record of your arrest.
- Charges Filed: The prosecutor will formally file charges against you, outlining the specific violations of Mississippi law. Remember, the specific statute you're charged under matters, as each carries its own set of potential penalties.
- Court Appearance/Arraignment: You'll appear before a judge or magistrate where you'll be informed of the charges, your rights, and the potential penalties. You'll also enter a plea.
- Trial or Plea Bargain: If you plead not guilty, your case will go to trial. More often, however, cases like these are resolved through plea negotiations, where your attorney works with the prosecutor to reach a favorable outcome.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include fines and jail time.
Penalties for Misrepresenting Age in Mississippi
Misrepresenting your age is typically classified as a misdemeanor. The penalties can be significant:
- Fines: You could face fines of up to $500.
- Jail Time: You could be sentenced to up to 90 days in jail.
- Criminal Record: A conviction will result in a criminal record, which can impact your future employment, education, and housing opportunities.
Why You Absolutely Need an Attorney
While the penalties might seem manageable, the long-term consequences of a conviction can be devastating. Here's why having an experienced Mississippi attorney is crucial:
- Understanding the Nuances of the Law: With multiple statutes covering this offense, it's essential to have an attorney who understands the specific laws that apply to your case. They can identify any weaknesses in the prosecution's case and build a strong defense on your behalf.
- Protecting Your Rights: An attorney will ensure your rights are protected throughout the legal process. They will investigate the circumstances of your arrest, ensuring that law enforcement followed proper procedure and that your constitutional rights were not violated.
- Negotiating a Favorable Outcome: An experienced attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor to minimize the charges or penalties you face. They may be able to secure a reduced charge, alternative sentencing, or even get the case dismissed altogether.
- Expungement: While not always guaranteed, expungement – the legal process of erasing a conviction from your record – may be an option in some cases. Your attorney can advise you on the possibility of expungement and guide you through the process. Given the difficulties in mounting a successful defense in these cases, we frequently emphasize the importance of expungement.
- Protecting Your Future: A criminal record can have a lasting impact on your life. An attorney will work tirelessly to protect your future and minimize the consequences of a mistake.
Don't Wait. Act Now!
If you've been charged with possessing or displaying false identification in Mississippi, don't wait.
The sooner you seek legal representation, the better your chances of a positive outcome.
Contact our North Mississippi law firm today for a consultation.
We'll review your case, explain your options, and help you navigate this challenging situation.
Don't let a mistake derail your future.
The sooner you seek legal representation, the better your chances of a positive outcome.
Contact our North Mississippi law firm today for a consultation.
We'll review your case, explain your options, and help you navigate this challenging situation.
Don't let a mistake derail your future.