Common Offenses Teens Are Charged With at Summer Events

In Plymouth and across Michigan, there are several charges teens most often face during or after summer events:

• Minor in Possession (MIP): Possessing alcohol under the legal drinking age of 21. This is one of the most common charges for teens arrested at summer events.
• Disorderly Conduct: Loud noise, fights, and public intoxication can all lead to disorderly conduct charges.
• Possession of Marijuana or Other Drugs: While marijuana is legal for adults over 21 in Michigan, possession by minors is still a criminal offense.
• Fake ID Use: Attempting to enter 21+ venues or purchase alcohol using a fake ID is illegal and taken seriously by law enforcement.
• Traffic Offenses: If your teen drove themselves or others to the event, they may be charged with reckless driving, driving under the influence (OWI), or driving without a valid license.

Even "minor" charges can have lasting consequences for a teenager. A conviction can affect college admissions, scholarships, and future job opportunities.

What to Do Immediately After Your Teen Is Arrested

1. Stay Calm and Gather Information

Learning your teen has been arrested is frightening—but remaining calm is crucial. Get the following details immediately:

• Where your child is being held (usually at the local police department or juvenile facility).
• Details of the arrest: what event they were attending, what the officers allege your child did, and who they were with.
• Any paperwork or citations provided by police.

2. Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer Immediately

Before your child speaks with law enforcement or signs any documents, they need a criminal defense attorney. Teens often don’t understand their rights and may inadvertently incriminate themselves. In cases involving minors, parents should seek experienced legal counsel without delay.

If your child is detained or facing criminal charges in Plymouth, contact experienced Michigan criminal defense lawyer Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806. We’ve successfully defended teens against underage drinking, possession, OWI, and other charges across Wayne County and beyond.

Understanding the Youth Criminal Process in Michigan

Whether your child is 17 or under Michigan’s juvenile jurisdiction (typically under 18), or is 18 or 19 and still legally considered an adult, the legal consequences and court procedures vary.

Teens Age 17 and Under: Juvenile System

In Michigan, those under 18 are generally treated as juveniles, unless they are charged with a more serious felony. Juvenile proceedings aim for rehabilitation rather than punishment. The court may require:

• Probation with conditions (school attendance, community service, counseling).
• Diversion programs that keep the case off the teen's permanent record if completed successfully.
• Fines or restitution.

Teens Age 18 and Older: Adult System

An 18-year-old is considered a legal adult in Michigan. If your teen is 18 or 19 and arrested at a summer concert or party, they may face adult penalties. This includes jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record unless alternatives are negotiated by a criminal defense attorney.

What Are Your Teen’s Rights When Arrested in Michigan?

Your teen, like any person in Michigan, has legal rights that must be upheld:

• The right to remain silent: Your child does not have to answer police questions without a lawyer present.
• The right to an attorney: You can and should insist on legal representation before your child provides any statement.
• The right to know the charges: The police must inform your child of the reason for their arrest.
• Parental notification: In most cases, if your child is a minor, the police must make reasonable efforts to contact you after taking your child into custody.

If these rights were violated, your attorney may be able to have evidence suppressed or charges dismissed.

How to Protect Your Teen’s Future After Arrest

Explore Diversion and First-Time Offender Programs

Michigan offers programs to give first-time offenders a second chance. Your teen may qualify for deferral or diversion under laws such as:

• 7411 Deferral: For first-time drug offenses, the judge may defer the case and dismiss the charge after probation compliance.
• Holmes Youthful Trainee Act (HYTA): Applies to offenders aged 17 to 26. The charge can be dismissed, and records sealed upon successful program completion.
• Minor in Possession (MIP) Deferral: First MIP offenses may be eligible for a deferral that—if successfully completed—results in dismissal.

Having a knowledgeable attorney advocate for these outcomes can make a difference between a permanent record and a clean slate.

Fight to Keep the Record Clean

Whether through argument in court or by negotiating alternative resolutions, our goal is always to protect your teen’s record. A criminal conviction—even a misdemeanor—can impact jobs, college applications, student loans, and more.

How Police Handle Teen Arrests During Summer Events in Plymouth

Local law enforcement, including the Plymouth Police and Plymouth Township Police, often increase patrols around summer events due to higher rates of underage drinking, intoxicated driving, and noise complaints. This includes downtown events, concerts in the park, parties at homes or rental halls, and fireworks shows around the Fourth of July.

Police often conduct field sobriety tests, ask to search backpacks or cars, and detain groups based on witness tips or observed behavior. It’s important to note police must still follow proper search and seizure laws. If your child’s rights were violated, we may be able to challenge the arrest or evidence.

What to Expect at the 35th District Court in Plymouth

If your teen’s case is referred to the adult legal system, it will likely be heard in the 35th District Court, located at 660 Plymouth Rd, Plymouth, MI 48170. Here’s what to expect:

• Arraignment: The judge reads the charges, sets bond, and may impose conditions like no drinking or attending school regularly.
• Pretrial Conferences: Your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor to dismiss or reduce charges, especially for low-level offenses or first-time arrests.
• Sentencing: If found guilty or if a plea deal is made, the judge will issue a sentence. With a good legal argument, this may involve no jail, reduced fines, or even keeping the charge off public record.

Knowing the local judges—including Judge Michael Gerou, Judge James Plakas, and Judge Joe Barone—means we can tailor our defense strategy based on their expectations and prior decisions. Each judge has a unique approach to sentencing and rehabilitation for young offenders.

Guidance for Concerned Parents: How You Can Help

As a parent, your support, leadership, and immediate action are critical. Here’s how you can help:

• Talk to your teen calmly: Let them know you are there to support them—but be honest about the seriousness of the situation.
• Avoid attempting to “talk it out” with police: Speaking to police without a lawyer can cause more harm than good, even with noble intentions.
• Document everything: Write down event details, conversations with officers, and anything else you recall from the time of arrest.
• Hire a trusted local attorney: A lawyer who knows the court, judges, and prosecutors in Plymouth can make all the difference. Don’t leave your child’s future up to chance.

If you're searching for an experienced criminal defense lawyer, Aaron J. Boria is here to help. Call us at (734) 453-7806 to schedule your free consultation today.

Conclusion

Summer should be a time for growth, fun, and memories—not for criminal records and legal troubles. If your teen has been arrested at a summer event in Plymouth, Michigan, the best thing you can do is take action quickly and seek professional legal help. Early intervention, a strong legal strategy, and a focus on rehabilitation can help protect your teen’s future and open up opportunities for a clean slate.

At Boria Law, we’ve helped countless families in situations just like yours. We understand how terrifying and confusing this process can be, and we’ll stand by your side every step of the way. Don’t wait—call criminal defense lawyer Aaron J. Boria at (734) 453-7806 today for a no-obligation, confidential consultation.

It’s not just about the case. It’s about your child’s future.