Last Updated on: 4th January 2024, 08:42 pm
As a minor, you may be counting the days until you turn 21 years old. This is especially true if you want to get into clubs and drink alcohol with your peers.
Although it can be tempting to use a fake ID to engage in these activities at a young age, you could get into a lot of trouble if you take this action. Pennsylvania laws specifically state that minors are prohibited from using a fake ID to buy alcohol.
If you get caught with a fake ID, you will get arrested by the police. Your parents will be notified. You will be required to pay a fine. These consequences are just for the first offense.
After your second offense, the Pennsylvania court may charge you with a misdemeanor. Consequences for additional offenses may include time in jail or a substantial fine.
What You Should Know About Fake ID Laws in Pennsylvania
Fake ID laws are intended to protect bars and restaurants from the liabilities associated with serving alcohol to minors. These laws also protect minors from getting access to alcohol before they turn 21 years old.
According to the fake ID laws in Pennsylvania, it is against the law for you to:
- Carry any form of fake identification.
- Use a fake ID to purchase or attempt to purchase alcohol.
- Pretend you are 21 years old or older in order to purchase alcohol.
- Use another person’s ID to purchase alcohol.
In Pennsylvania, an ID is considered to be fake if it falsifies your age, name or birth date. When it comes to fake IDs, you should never buy or use one. Due to the consequences of using a fake ID, it is more trouble than it is worth.
How Professionals Identify Fake IDs
Technology has advanced to the point where it can be difficult for a novice to detect a fake ID. However, many club bouncers and police officers know how to identify a fake ID. Here are a few.
- The signature on the fake ID doesn’t match your actual signature.
- The height and weight that is listed on the ID does not reflect your actual height and weight.
- When held up under an ultraviolet light, the secondary image on a fake ID doesn’t show up.
If you’re caught with a fake ID at a bar or club, the bouncer will contact the police officer on the spot. If a police officer isn’t readily available, the bouncer has the right to confiscate the fake ID and send it to the authorities. After the authorities receive it, they will try to find the owner of the fake ID.
How to Handle a Fake ID Arrest
Make no mistake about it. A police officer has the authority to take you into custody if you get caught with a fake ID. If you’re arrested for using a fake ID, here’s what you should do.
- Be cooperative. Don’t resist the arrest or act in an unlawful manner.
- Remain quiet. Don’t volunteer any information to the police.
- Request to speak with a lawyer.
How a Lawyer Can Defend You Against Fake ID Charges
Our criminal attorneys at Amato Sanita Law Offices have experiencing defending minors against fake ID charges. We’ll review the evidence of your case and work diligently to discredit the evidence.
If you or a loved one needs legal representation for a fake ID charge, contact Amata Sanita Law Offices to schedule a consultation. Our law offices are located in Philadelphia, Feasterville and Norristown. Don’t delay. Call one of our offices today. Your future could be at stake.