Minor in Possession Defense Attorneys in Vancouver, WA

A minor in possession conviction can suspend your license and stay on your record, whether the substance was alcohol or marijuana. We defend MIP charges across Clark County.

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Dedication

We are available 24/7

Experience

Nearly 30 years of combined criminal defense experience

Insider Knowledge

A former Oregon prosecutor now fights on your side

Trial-Tested

More than 60 trials fought in the courtroom

Minor in Possession Charges at a Glance

Substance Classification
Alcohol (under 21) Gross misdemeanor, up to 1 year and a $5,000 fine
Marijuana, 40 grams or less (under 21) Misdemeanor, up to 90 days and a $1,000 fine
Marijuana, over 40 grams (under 21) Felony

Minor in Possession of Alcohol in Washington

RCW 66.44.270(2) makes it illegal for anyone under 21 years old to have or drink alcohol or to be in public while exhibiting the effects of having drank alcohol. Violation of this law is considered a gross misdemeanor in Washington and is punishable by up to a year in jail and a $5,000.00 fine.

Minor in Possession of Marijuana in Washington

RCW 69.50.4014 and RCW 69.50.360 makes it illegal to possess 40 grams or less of marijuana unless you are 21 years old or older. Violation of this law is considered a simple misdemeanor in Washington and is punishable by up to 90 days jail and a $1,000.00 fine. Under the current laws, possession of over 40 grams of marijuana is punishable as a felony for an individual under 21 years of age.

License Suspension

If you are convicted of an MIP charge for either alcohol or marijuana in Washington, the court will notify the Department of Licensing (DOL) of the conviction. The DOL will then send you a letter (to the address they have on record for you) informing you that your license will be suspended beginning 45 days later. The length of the license suspension depends on your age and whether this is your first MIP charge.

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Facing an MIP Charge? Protect Your License Now

Free consultation. Available 24/7. We quote a flat fee up front and offer payment plans on most cases. The number we quote is the number you pay, no matter how many hearings your case takes.

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Or Call (360) 281-7314
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Cases we handle

Other Charges We Defend

Assault

Assault

Charges range from a simple push to felony assault with a weapon, every degree needs its own defense.

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Harassment

Harassment

Threats, repeated unwanted contact, or intimidation charges, defended from the first accusation.

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View all Criminal Defense Charges

4.9 star reviews based on 110+ reviews

What Our Clients Say About Us

I hired Roger to represent my husband when he was arrested on false charges. From the very beginning, Roger was responsive, knowledgeable and willing to take on the case. He was the only one to return my call when I was searching for help. He is very confident in his ability and worked hard to get all the charges dismissed. He is able to be calm in situations where his clients are anything but. I am so grateful for the services provided by Roger. He is very respected in the legal community here in Vancouver. I hope I never need a lawyer again, but if I did, Roger would be my first choice.
RL Rosie L. 2 months ago
I am writing a much overdue review for Roger Priest after he has gone above and beyond while representing me as my lawyer. Last year I found myself facing legal difficulties after my first and only DUI. While the circumstances were incredibly stressful, Roger's involvement in my case made the process straight forward and my case was resolved in a timely manner. Roger is exceptionally proficient in cases like mine and he demonstrates that in and out of the court room. Not only did he walk me through the process but he put my family's concerns at ease by answering all of our questions and making himself available whenever we needed clarification. I was very fortunate to have Roger on my side during that difficult time and would highly recommend his services to anyone that finds themselves in need of legal counsel. Thank you once again, Roger!
CM Carly M. 2 months ago
Called for advice on what turned out to be a scam call. Roger Priest had me at ease in a very timely manner. Thank you!
FA Florence A. 2 months ago
VanWa Legal exceeded my expectations. From the initial consultation to the final court appearance, they were thorough, strategic, and always had my best interests in mind. Their attention to detail and dedication to their clients is unmatched. Highly recommend!
D Deimer 2 months ago
Roger Priest at VanWa Legal has been instrumental in changing my life for the better. He fought for me and won! I'm forever grateful.
BC Becky C 2 months ago
I met Roger at the start of 2025, somehow after I paid for a fender bender that I caused I was hit with a hit and run little did I know when I had a warrant two years after the incident. As of today my case was entirely dismissed without even going to trial. I couldn't be happier with the results and couldn't vouch for a different lawyer. Every time we had a court date, we were the first ones on and promptly the first case handled. Roger Priest is the man- I would highly recommend you give him a call if you are experiencing trouble.
CC Cristian Carter 2 months ago
Had a consultation with Roger priest this morning, paid attention to detail and what he had to say and he was very honest and upforward not to mention he took the time to look up additional information which lead to the best possible news. I thought my life was over and he gave me hope. Thank you Roger I will be hiring you!!! You give people with a bad past who are trying to do good lots of hope! God bless you.
ML Mr Lopez 2 months ago

FAQ

Common MIP Charge Defense Questions

Does an MIP charge affect my license even without a DUI?

A conviction triggers an automatic license suspension through the Department of Licensing, separate from any DUI process.

Is a marijuana MIP charge treated differently than an alcohol MIP charge?

Yes. An alcohol MIP is a gross misdemeanor, while possessing 40 grams or less of marijuana under 21 is a simple misdemeanor with lower maximum penalties. Possessing more than 40 grams under 21 can be charged as a felony.

Can an MIP charge be beaten in court even if I was caught in the act?

Sometimes. Issues like an unlawful stop or search, weak proof of possession, or eligibility for a diversion or deferral can all affect the outcome. Being present isn't the same as the state proving every element beyond a reasonable doubt.

Contact us

Speak With A Lawyer Now

Free consultation. Available 24/7. We quote a flat fee up front and offer payment plans on most cases. The number we quote is the number you pay, no matter how many hearings your case takes.

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Or Call (360) 281-7314
The VanWa Legal attorney team