Outcome of a underage possession of alcohol charge?

Question

It was stupid, but i let my friend leave about half a 24 pack of beer in the back (trunk/hatchback) of my car, it was in there for awhile, i was told if it was out of reach and unopened it wasn't illegal, but the car is in my name.

So, i got pulled over for something else completely different, and they charged me for underaged possession of alcohol. I live in Virignia, 19, my mother told me it's a $500 fine, and 6 month license suspension. I'm getting a lawyer of course but my friend who left the alcohol in my car is underaged too and i'm not going to make them step forward. I don't drink, I deffinetly wasn't drunk when they pulled me over. Any advice?

I'll pay any amount of fines but i really don't want my license suspended, i have to get to school and work, and drive my little sister around when school starts again.

Answer 1

I haven't heard of anyone losing a license over that but they would receive a fine......just go in front of the judge, explain the situation and if this is your first offense your likely to be given a break in the matter, maybe not totally since you were in possession of alcohol (whether or not it was yours), but they may be lenient.

Answer 2

Where I live and work we have a Zero Tollerance law.  If it is in your vehicle (even locked away and out of reach)- you are responsible for it and you will lose your license for one year, mandatory!  My advice is to save your money on the lawyer - you'll need it for bus rides.  I can tell you from experience - and I HATE to tell you this.  You are probably going to lose this one.