Serving alcohol to a minor.

[gripper]

I work as a bartender at a local restaurant. A minor came into the restaurant and asked for a beer? I asked for his ID and thought I saw 1976. Unfornately, I might have made a mistake because an officer came into the restaurant and gave me ticket for serving a minor. I asked the officer for the ID so that I can see the mistake and he refused to show the ID. What rights do I have? What scenario's can occur from being found guilty? What are my chances that since this is my first offense that I can gett off the charge?

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[lawrat]

I am a law school graduate. What I offer is mere information, not to be construed as forming an attorney client relationship.

Well, it will depend on your state's law on serving alcohol to a minor. I.e., does it have an intent element to it? Meaning, in order for you to be found guilty, does the state have to prove you intended to serve a minor alcohol, or knowingly served it? Does it have a defense of mistake of fact? That had you known he was a minor, you would not have served him alcohol? Or is it one of those strict liability laws where the simple fact you did it suffices for conviction.

Since this is your first offense, and you didnt know, may i suggest you at least consult with an attorney. Try attorneypages.com, many of them offer free consultations.

Ask the above questions and see what response you get.
For a quick look, try "state statutes" at the freeadvice.com homepage. Look up your state and type in key words like "serving alcohol to a minor"

Hope this helps