Minor In Possession (MIP)

Master Account • December 11, 2025

Minor in Possession (MIP) Charges in Arkansas: What Students & Parents Need to Know

A Minor in Possession (MIP) charge may seem like a minor offense, but in Arkansas, it can have serious consequences — especially for college students. At Taylor Law Partners, we routinely represent University of Arkansas students and other young adults who find themselves facing MIP or related alcohol charges in Fayetteville and throughout Northwest Arkansas.


In this article, we’ll explain what MIP means under Arkansas law, what penalties students may face, and what you should do if you or your child is charged.

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What is a Minor in Possession (MIP) Charge?

Under Arkansas law, a Minor in Possession of Alcohol charge applies when a person under the age of 21 is found:

  1. Possessing or consuming alcohol, OR
  2. Having alcohol in their system, regardless of whether they’re holding a drink

This means you can be charged with MIP even if you're not visibly drinking, as long as there's alcohol in your bloodstream or possession can be inferred.

Statute: Ark. Code Ann. § 3-3-203

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Penalties for MIP in Arkansas

Although MIP is usually a misdemeanor, the consequences can still be significant and long-lasting.

First-Offense MIP May Include:

  1. Fines up to $500
  • Suspension of driver’s license (up to 1 year)
  • Mandatory alcohol education classes
  • Community service
  • A permanent criminal record unless sealed

Repeat offenses or other related charges (e.g., public intoxication, possession of a fake ID) can result in harsher penalties, including jail time.

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How MIP Charges Affect University of Arkansas Students

An MIP doesn’t just affect your legal record — it can impact your academic future, too. The University of Arkansas may take disciplinary action even if the offense happened off-campus.

Consequences can include:

  1. Disciplinary probation
  2. Required alcohol education or counseling
  3. Suspension from Greek Life organizations
  4. Referrals to the Office of Student Standards and Conduct

That’s why it’s critical to have a defense attorney who understands both the legal system and university conduct processes.

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Key Takeaways:

Charge Minor in Possession (MIP) – Under 21
Statute Ark. Code Ann. § 3-3-203
Penalties Fine, license suspension, alcohol education
Can be sealed? Yes, in many cases after waiting period
Impact on students University discipline, Greek Life sanctions, academic holds

Whether you’re a student facing your first criminal charge or a concerned parent, Taylor Law Partners is here to help. We offer confidential, judgment-free legal support for students and young adults across Washington and Benton Counties.

   Call: (479) 316 – 6300
   Office: Taylor Law Partners, 211 E. Dickson Street Ste. 1, Fayetteville, AR 72701
   Website: https://taylorlawpartners.com

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