Driving Under The Influence

Federal Court

State Court

General Sessions Court

Magistrate/Municipal Court

What is the Alcohol Education Program?

A program for first time offenders who commit certain alcohol related crimes. The purpose is to discourage underage drinking and to educate eligible participants as to the potential personal, social and legal risks of alcohol use.

Who is eligible for AEP?

In ordered to be considered for acceptance into the AEP Program an individual must meet the following criteria:

• The offender is between the ages of 17 and 20
• The offender has no significant criminal history
• The offender has been charged with:

• Possession of beer or wine by a person under the age of twenty one
• Possession of alcoholic liquor under the age of twenty one
• Open Container
• Disorderly conduct
• Falsification of age to purchase beer or wine
• Unlawful purchase of beer or wine for a person who cannot legally buy
• Transfer of beer or wine for underage person’s consumption
• Possession of altered driver’s license or other false documentation
• Any other offense similar in nature and severity to the above described offenses, as determined by the Circuit Solicitor

How does AEP work?

Application - the offender will bring in ticket, picture id, and social security card. An interview will be conducted.

Investigation - The magistrate and the arresting officer will be contacted for consent. A SLED report will be included in the file.

Approval - Upon acceptance, the offender will pay the $250 participation fee and will be scheduled for Education.

Participation - Offender will be required to attend 4 two-hour alcohol education sessions, complete assigned homework, and perform 20 hours of community service. A fee of $100 is paid to the counselor by each participant.

Completion - Upon successful completion, the offender must pay a $150.00 money order made payable to AEP along with a $35.00 money order payable to the Clerk of Court.

Why should you participate in AEP?

If you are convicted of the charge by entering a guilty plea, jury trial, or paying the fine, this conviction could remain on your arrest record for the rest of your life. AEP will offer you a chance to clear this charge from your arrest record.

Alcohol Education Program Requirements:

• Education - Offenders will be required to attend 4 two hour alcohol education sessions and completed assigned homework. The sessions cost a fee of $100 paid directly to the group counselor.
• Community Service Work- Offenders are required to complete 20 hours of community service work at a non-profit organization. Hours will be verified by the organization.

If program requirements are not completed, the case will be re-staffed. If the solicitor terminates a defendant from PTI, the case will be returned to court for full prosecution.