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The penalties if caught with a fake ID in Colorado

Posted on February 20, 2019

Colorado readers understand there are strict penalties associated with underage drinking and underage possession of marijuana. There are also strict penalties for possession of a fake identification, which is how many individuals under the age of 21 are able to obtain marijuana and alcohol. If you are facing charges because someone caught you with a fake ID, it is smart to take your situation seriously.

Any type of criminal charge is a threat to your future, and a strong criminal defense is an important part of protecting your interests. Possession of a fake ID may not seem like a big deal, but it can leave a mark on your record that can affect you down the road. It is smart to learn how you can defend yourself if caught with a fake ID or facing related charges.

Access to fake IDs

Fake IDs can come from many places, but people are often able to order them from online sellers. It can be surprisingly easy to accomplish this. According to law enforcement, they often find people with multiple identifications in case police or an establishment confiscates one. A person under the age of 21 can get multiple fake IDs to buy alcohol or drugs for a few hundred dollars.

What’s so wrong about a fake ID?

Many underage individuals carry fake IDs, but simply possessing one violates more than half a dozen laws. Some of the offenses associated with having a fake ID are felonies, but if it is your first offense, you may only face misdemeanor charges. If convicted, however, you could face more than just administrative and criminal penalties.

Conviction of any type of crime, even a seemingly minor one, could affect your status as a college student. Many educational institutions have strict policies on student behavior, and having a fake ID could ultimately affect your scholarships, extracurricular activities and even your enrollment status.

Your future is worth protecting

No matter what type of charges you are up against, your future is worth protecting. You may find it helpful to start with a complete evaluation of your case in order to understand the defense options available to you. For underage individuals, charges related to underage drinking, fake IDs and possession of marijuana are serious. You would be wise not to delay in getting the legal help you need to fight back and preserve your education and opportunities.