Getting charged for serving alcohol to a minor is a serious offense in Horry County, SC.
S.C. Code Section 61-4-50 holds individuals and businesses accountable, and a conviction can mean fines, jail time, and even the loss of your job. Chambers Law will fight to protect your record, your career, and your future.
Call 843-449-0420 today for a free consultation.
South Carolina’s Laws on Serving Alcohol to a Minor
In South Carolina, it is illegal to sell, serve, or provide alcohol to anyone under 21. Violations can apply to:
- Bartenders serving alcohol to an underage patron
- Store clerks selling alcohol without checking ID
- Servers and restaurant staff who provide alcohol to an underage guest
- Business owners who fail to enforce ID policies
Even if the minor used a fake ID, the law still holds you responsible. That’s why you need an aggressive defense to challenge the charges.
Penalties for Serving Alcohol to a Minor in South Carolina
South Carolina law treats these offenses as misdemeanors, with penalties including:
- Fines between $200 and $300 for a first offense
- Up to 30 days in jail
- For repeat offenses, fines between $400 and $500 and possible jail time
Beyond the Legal Penalties, You Could Also Face:
- Job loss—employers may fire employees for alcohol-related offenses
- Loss of professional licenses—bartenders and servers may be banned from alcohol service
- Business liability—bars, restaurants, and stores can face lawsuits
Defenses Against Serving Alcohol to a Minor Charges
Every case is different, and the right defense depends on the facts. We may argue:
- The minor used a high-quality fake ID—if it was realistic and matched their appearance, you may not be at fault.
- You made a reasonable effort to verify age—if you checked ID and followed policy, charges may not hold.
- Entrapment—in some cases, law enforcement stings unfairly target businesses and employees.
- No direct involvement—if alcohol was obtained without your knowledge, you should not be held responsible.
At Chambers Law, we investigate every angle to fight for the best possible outcome.
Can You Expunge a Conviction?
If convicted, an alcohol service violation can stay on your record. However, some cases may be eligible for expungement if:
- You were a first-time offender
- You completed all sentencing requirements
- A judge grants expungement under special circumstances
We’ll help determine if expungement is an option for your case.
