Summer is finally here and a question we hear a lot is - Can people under age 21 legally drink with a parent in Wisconsin?
Most of the time you have to be 21 to drink alcohol... but not always.
In the state of Wisconsin, the minimum legal drinking age is 21 years old. But tucked away inside the alcohol laws of the state is an exception to that rule, which may surprise many. Which allows anyone, of any age under 21, to drink alcohol in a bar or restaurant – under certain situations.
The Department of Revenue says under state law:
“Persons under age 21 may possess and consume alcohol beverages if they are with their parents, guardians or spouses of legal drinking age; but this is at the discretion of the licensee.”
The law applies in your own home.
What does that mean?
The short answer is that you can drink with your parents in a bar or restaurant -- but it's ultimately up to the owner to decide if they will serve people under the age of 21.
According to the Wisconsin Alcohol Policy Project at UW-Law School, approximately 30 states have exceptions to allow minors to have alcohol when with a parent or guardian. But only a few – like Montana and Ohio mirror Wisconsin’s statute.
That being said, we hope everyone has a fun and safe summer. Should you or a loved one find yourself charged with a crime it is very important to contact an experienced attorney so you can discuss all your options. At Jones Law Firm we can help. Contact us today to set up a consultation. Please contact us by text or phone at (414) 775-7445 or email at laura@jlfwisconsin.com anytime.
*Any articles in the Libra or posted by Jones Law Firm LLC are not legal advice for a particular client or situation. Further no attorney-client relationship is intended or created with this post.*
