State Law In
South Carolina
What does state law say?
It is against the law to transfer or give alcohol to a person under the age of 21.
What happens if an adult breaks the law?
Adults who are charged with this violation face graduated sentences. A first offense is punishable by a minimum fine of $200 and maximum fine of $300 and/or imprisoned by no more than 30 days. Second and subsequent offenses are punishable by a minimum of $400 and maximum fine of $500 and/or imprisoned by no more than 30 days.
Can adult do anything to rescind the violation?
Not addressed.
Can the adult be sued?
South Carolina courts have declared as common law that adult social hosts who knowingly and intentionally serve (or cause to be served) alcohol to a person they know or should know is between the ages of 18 and 20 are liable to the person served, and to any other person, for damages resulting from the host’s service of alcohol. (Marcum v. Bowden and Barnes v. Cohen Dry Wall Inc.)