Minor Alcohol Possession Laws

Summary

In Maryland, minors can face legal consequences for being in a room with opened alcohol bottles, even if they are unaware. Open bottles include any unsealed or partially consumed containers. An empty container can still be considered open if the seal was previously broken. Ignorance of the law is generally not a defense, so its crucial to avoid such situations. Consult a local attorney for personalized advice.

Full Conversation

I am Marc and I’m from ocean city maryland
Hello Marc, in Maryland, it's considered illegal for a minor to be in possession of alcohol, which includes being in a room with opened bottles. However, exceptions can be made under certain circumstances. Would you like more details on this?
What is considered open bottles
Hello Marc, "open bottles" refers to any container of alcohol that has been unsealed or partially consumed. This includes bottles, cans, or flasks. It's generally considered "open" if the seal is broken.
What if it’s empty
Hello Marc, in Maryland, an "empty" alcohol container can still be considered as an "open" container if the seal was previously broken, which could potentially lead to legal issues if found in the possession of a minor.
What if you don’t know the alcohol is opened
Hello Marc, in Maryland, unknowingly being in possession of opened alcohol might not exempt a minor from potential legal consequences. Ignorance of the law is generally not a defense. It's important to avoid such situations.