US Legal Forms
Legal Resources
Questions & Answers
Minors
Can I buy or possess alcohol as an emancipated minor in Hawaii?

Can I buy or possess alcohol as an emancipated minor in Hawaii?

Full question:

I got emancipated few months back. I live alone in a rented house in Hawaii. My landlord has strictly told us not to drink or keep alcohol in the house. What I wanna know is now that I’m emancipated, if I buy or possess alcohol can I land into trouble?

Category: Minors
Subcategory: Emancipation of Minor
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Hawaii

Answer:

No, as an emancipated minor in Hawaii, you cannot buy, possess, or sell alcohol. The law specifically states that being emancipated does not grant you the right to purchase or have alcoholic beverages. According to HRS § 577-25, while you may have some adult rights, you still cannot engage in activities related to alcohol as a minor. This law also maintains your status as a minor concerning criminal laws.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

What are the legal rights of an emancipated minor in Hawaii?

An emancipated minor in Hawaii has certain adult rights, such as the ability to enter into contracts and make personal decisions. However, these rights do not extend to the purchase, possession, or sale of alcohol. According to HRS § 577-25, emancipated minors are still considered minors under alcohol laws and cannot legally engage in activities related to alcoholic beverages. This means that while you may have more independence, alcohol-related restrictions remain in place.

Can an emancipated minor be charged with a crime for possessing alcohol in Hawaii?

Yes, an emancipated minor can be charged with a crime for possessing alcohol in Hawaii. Despite being emancipated, the law treats them as minors concerning alcohol-related offenses. This means that if an emancipated minor is found in possession of alcohol, they can face legal consequences under HRS § 577-25, which prohibits minors from purchasing or possessing alcoholic beverages.

What happens if an emancipated minor violates alcohol laws in Hawaii?

If an emancipated minor violates alcohol laws in Hawaii, they may face legal penalties, including fines or other consequences. The law considers them minors regarding alcohol-related offenses, so they can be prosecuted under the same statutes as non-emancipated minors. This includes the prohibition against purchasing or possessing alcohol as outlined in HRS § 577-25. It's important to adhere to these laws to avoid legal trouble.

Are there any exceptions for emancipated minors regarding alcohol in Hawaii?

No, there are no exceptions for emancipated minors regarding alcohol laws in Hawaii. Even though emancipation grants certain adult rights, it does not allow for the purchase, possession, or sale of alcohol. HRS § 577-25 clearly states that emancipated minors are still subject to the same alcohol restrictions as other minors. Therefore, they cannot legally engage in any alcohol-related activities.