Underage Drinking & Alcohol on the Beach Charges in Panama City Beach
With all the fun things to see and do on Panama City Beach — especially during Spring Break — we truly hope you have a great time while you’re here.
However, if an underage person (a minor, juvenile, or anyone under 21) is caught possessing or consuming alcohol in Panama City Beach, they may face a second-degree misdemeanor charge under Florida law.
In addition, during the month of March, visitors and locals — even those over 21 — may be charged for possessing or consuming alcohol on the sandy Gulf beach.
Our criminal defense attorneys have helped defend thousands of cases in Panama City, throughout Northwest Florida. We regularly represent clients in Bay County Court for alcohol-related offenses arising in Panama City Beach, including Spring Break enforcement cases.
Your child’s future matters.
A minor in possession charge in Panama City Beach doesn’t have to define it. We’ve helped families across Bay County resolve Spring Break alcohol charges discreetly and effectively.
Call (850) 257-5680 for a free consultation. We are available 24/7 to answer your call — including throughout Spring Break.
Alcohol on the Beach – March Ban in Panama City Beach
According to the City of Panama City Beach ordinance, during the month of March:
“It shall be unlawful for any person to possess or consume any alcoholic beverage on the sandy Gulf beach of the Gulf of Mexico, within the City limits.”
For purposes of this section, “sandy Gulf beach” includes all loose or uncompacted sand areas between the Gulf waters and the nearest public roadway — including dunes and vegetated areas.
Even visitors who are 21 or older may receive a citation during this time.
My Child Was Charged with Minor in Possession in Panama City Beach — What Can We Do?
This is a question we frequently receive at our Panama City law office:
“My child is a good student and made a mistake. Can you help?”
The answer is yes.
Our experienced Panama City criminal defense attorneys have helped both visitors and Bay County residents with:
- Minor in possession (MIP)
- Underage drinking
- Alcohol on the beach citations
- Spring Break arrests in Panama City Beach
Every case is different, but in many situations there are options available that may help protect a young person’s record and future.
Protecting Your Child’s Future
Even a misdemeanor alcohol charge can have long-term consequences, including:
- A public criminal record
- Driver’s license suspension
- Fines and court costs
- Probation or community service
After a Panama City Beach arrest, Florida law requires that your child appear before a judge within 24 hours for what’s called a first appearance hearing in Bay County. At that hearing, the judge reviews the arrest, determines bond or pretrial release conditions, and sets the case in motion — which is why it’s important to understand your legal options and speak with a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney familiar with the Bay County court system.
If your child, spring breaker, or loved one has been charged with an alcohol-related offense in Panama City Beach, call our office at (850) 257-5680 for a free consultation.
We’ve been helping families in Panama City and Panama City Beach for years, and we’re here to help you navigate this situation and pursue the best possible outcome — whether that means fighting the charge, seeking a diversion option, or, when appropriate, pursuing expungement to protect your child’s future.
