In Washington State it is unlawful for any person under the age of twenty-one years to possess, consume, or otherwise acquire any liquor. A violation of this Washington law (RCW 66.44.270) is a gross misdemeanor punishable by 364 days of jail and a fine of $5,000.

Keeping in line with RCW 66.44.270, Washington State is changing its laws related to liquor purchases at supermarket self-checkout machines. On Wednesday Governor Inslee signed a bill that would require self-checkout machines at supermarkets to freeze transactions involving liquor sales until a worker verifies the buyer is at least 21 years old. The measure passed unanimously through both the House and the Senate amid concerns that underage shoppers were able to purchase liquor without consequence or scrutiny.

If you or a loved one is charged with a liquor law crime in Washington State it is imperative that you seek the assistance of a qualified and reputable Washington criminal defense attorney. The Seattle criminal attorneys that make up the criminal defense team of SQ Attorneys are highly qualified and reputable Seattle criminal defense lawyers that are dedicated to providing top notch, aggressive representation for those arrested for crime all across Western Washington and the Greater Puget Sound region. The team creates success by working with law enforcement and the prosecuting attorney’s office to ensure that all facts and circumstances related to the criminal allegations are considered in creating the fairest, most equitable and just resolution possible in light of all the surrounding circumstances of the given case.