Residents of North Carolina may know and understand the penalties that can result from drunk driving. However some may not know that there can also be consequences for party hosts who allow their guests to drink and then drive away.

One woman is facing criminal charges after a fatal alcohol-related accident took the lives of three individuals. The crash occurred last year when a 20-year-old lost control of her vehicle. The 20-year-old has already been convicted of a crime. But now the woman, who had been hosting the 20-year-old and her friends, has been charged with aiding and abetting minor consumption.

According to police troopers, the 20-year-old driver and her friends had been at the woman's home consuming alcohol. The driver then left the house with three friends, intoxicated, according to a blood-alcohol test later administered. The crash occurred soon after.

The woman's son was also present in the woman's home when the alcohol was consumed and initially faced the same charges. However those were dropped when the older woman recently entered a no-contest plea. The court ordered a 45-day suspended sentence and supervised probation. In addition, she is required to complete 200 hours of community service.

Being charged with a crime can lead to severe penalties. It can be overwhelming to try to deal with the possibility of a conviction on your own. Often speaking with a criminal defense attorney will help you decide what the appropriate next step is. This can be vital in protecting your rights and your future.

Source: WXII 12, "Woman sentenced in drunk driving crash that killed 3," Dec. 13, 2011