Notice: We are now fully open and doing in person consultations!

Call Today 803.938.4952
Nearly 30 Years of Experience on Your Side Full Service Representation in Columbia, SC

The Alcohol Education Program in Columbia

What Happens If You Get Caught Drinking Under 21?

Most juveniles who are arrested for crimes are not hardened criminals but are merely youths who have made mistakes or committed acts of indiscretion. Unfortunately, the consequences of a conviction can have a devastating effect on the individual's future, as a criminal record can result in disqualification for a scholarship, expulsion from a school or university and even difficulties in finding suitable employment. If your child has been charged with an alcohol related crime in Columbia and has not previously been convicted, it may be possible to take advantage of the Alcohol Education Program provided by the Richland County Solicitor.

Determining Eligibility for the AEP Classes

To qualify for the program, your child must be between the ages of 17 and 20 years old, and must have been charged with one of the following crimes:

Individuals who have already completed the AEP are not eligible, nor are those who have been charged with DUI.

The program consists of an eight-hour alcohol awareness class, as well as serving a total of thirty hours of community service which does not include hours completed prior to enrollment. The current charge for the alcohol education program is $350. In addition to preventing harsh criminal penalties including time in jail, completion of the program will result in the expungement of your child's arrest record, so that your child's future will not be tainted by a criminal record. This form of pre-trial intervention essentially gives a juvenile offender a second chance, and it focuses on rehabilitation rather than punishment, but not everyone is approved for participation.

Contact us now at Masella Law Firm, P.A. to learn more about actions we can take to help your child take advantage of this program.

Hearing From Our Clients

We Are Confident in Our Ability to Fight on Your Behalf
  • “Absolutely amazing customer focus!”
  • “Excellent advocate!”

    Anonymous

  • “Pleasantly Surprised”

    David H

  • “They really care about their clients and their families.”

    Ryan Gallier

  • “Amazing Attorney”

    Jim Miller

  • “Love this law firm!”

    Happy client

  • “"An amazing team of professionals"”

    Nicole Love

  • “Bob has your back and will stick with you all the way.”

    R Walkup

  • “He was well respected in the court room.”

    Anonymous

  • “Thank you very much, my record, my conscious, and future is clear.”

    Anonymous

  • “Highly Recomend!”

    Very Pleased Parent!

  • “Awesome lawyer and law firm!”

    anonymous

  • “Mr. Masella is an exceptionally personable and competent attorney.”

    Anonymous

  • “Super friendly and helpful”

    Tom F.

  • “I highly recommend this law firm!”

    Anonymous