What is a common penalty for those under 21 who are caught possessing alcohol?

A common penalty for individuals under 21 who are caught possessing alcohol is a misdemeanor charge. In many jurisdictions, including Indiana, the law prohibits possession of alcohol by those under the legal drinking age, and this violation is typically classified as a misdemeanor. Such a charge can have serious implications, including potential fines, mandatory participation in alcohol education programs, and a criminal record.

While community service and probation can be associated with various offenses, they are not standard or automatic penalties specifically for underage alcohol possession. Additionally, there are indeed penalties for underage alcohol possession, ruling out the option of "no penalty." Thus, recognizing that a misdemeanor charge is a prevalent legal response to this behavior underscores the seriousness with which such violations are treated in order to deter underage drinking.