What Is the Punishment for Using a Fake ID to Buy Alcoholic Beverages in Wisconsin?

 Posted on March 09, 2017 in Criminal Defense

Drinking alcohol under age 21 as well as using a fake ID that states you are of age, is illegal. Fake ID charges can have far-reaching consequences and should be taken seriously. Those who are underage should be aware that mere possession of a fake ID—even if it belonged to an older sibling—is a crime. It is also a crime to present the fake ID to a bar, restaurant, or store in Wisconsin

Penalties Under Wisconsin Law

If it is proven beyond a reasonable doubt that you possessed or used a fake ID, you could face several penalties. Wisconsin law provides for a fine of $300 to $1,250, suspension of driving privileges for 30 to 90 days, community service, or any combination of these penalties. Exactly what sentence you receive will depend on the judge, your criminal history, and the severity of the offense. For example, if you were buying significant amounts of alcohol or were extremely inebriated at the time of your arrest, you may face harsher penalties. 

Why Does the Law Treat Fake IDs as Such a Serious Crime? 

Possession of fake IDs is more than just about buying alcohol when you are underage. The U.S. and state governments rely heavily on the integrity of state-issued identification cards. Fake IDs present a dangerous risk to public safety. For instance, all traffic and domestic airline security checks depend on official government identification cards. Also, forgery and fraud can be perpetrated with a false form of identification. 

Why You Should Consider Fighting Fake ID Charges

You may think that the penalties associated with a fake ID conviction are not too onerous. Many people believe they should pay the fine and just “take care of the matter.” However, this approach is short-sighted. Fake ID convictions will remain on your record, and many criminal convictions usually need to be reported to universities. You may even face additional punishment at a college disciplinary hearing. In the future, jobs often require alcohol-related convictions to be disclosed too.

Contact a Milwaukee, WI Fake ID Lawyer

Hiring an attorney to review your case can help you explore every avenue possible to protect your future. Our firm has helped those accused of alcohol-related offenses, including false ID arrests. Depending on the facts of your case, we may be able to secure a plea bargain or another more favorable outcome. Call the skilled Milwaukee underage drinking attorneys at Gimbel, Reilly, Guerin & Brown, LLP at 414-271-1440 to learn more about your case.

Source:

https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/statutes/statutes/125/I/085