Michigan’s Minor in Possession (MIP) law prohibits the purchase, consumption, or possession of alcohol by anyone under 21 years of age. Students may be subject to sanctions through the legal system and/or the University’s Office of Student Conflict Resolution.
What should I do if I receive a MIP citation?
- The first offense is a civil infraction that will result in a fine. There is no court appearance necessary.
- Payments can be made online. To confirm when payments are due, visit the 15th District Court’s case search feature. The fine in the 15th District Court is currently $250.
- If you want to contest an MIP citation, please contact Student Legal Services as soon as possible by requesting an appointment under the Criminal Law section. The court only provides 10-15 days with which to respond. If you do not respond within this period, you may be found in default.
Will this appear on my record?
- MIPs are reported to the Michigan Secretary of State by law and will be posted on your driving record. Depending on your home state’s laws, this infraction may have an impact on an out-of-state driver’s license.
- A second MIP and subsequent citations are considered misdemeanors. Because each state may share its Secretary of State database, an MIP in Michigan may be considered a second violation if an individual has prior alcohol infractions in other states.
Medical Amnesty
- Medical amnesty is one of the exceptions to the Michigan MIP law. However, it has a very limited application and is only available if an individual or someone seeking assistance on their behalf voluntarily presents themselves or initiates contact with law enforcement or medical services for the purpose of obtaining medical assistance for an alcohol or prescription drug overdose.
- U-M students found responsible for an MIP may still face additional consequences, such as being required to participate in educational and restorative measures.
University Sanctions
Illegally using alcohol or drugs are violations under the Statement of Student Rights and Responsibilities. Students can face additional consequences for these violations through the Office of Student Conflict Resolution (OSCR) and/or the Community Living at Michigan standards for University Housing residents.
