Underage DUI

Underage DUI in Tampa

An Underage Drinker May Be Facing a Variety of Other Charges

Just because an individual is under the age of 21 does not mean that they can’t be charged with DUI. In fact, the BAC requirements for an underage DUI are actually more stringent than for an ordinary DUI. In addition, many of the administrative and other penalties can be more severe. In addition to the DUI charge itself, an underage drinker may be facing a variety of other charges, including:

• Citations for any other moving violations that were committed
• Distributing alcohol to minors (depending on who else was in the vehicle and whether they were also impaired)
• Minor in possession
• Soliciting alcohol
• Possession of false identification/fake ID (if one was used to purchase the alcohol)
• Violations of child endangerment laws

Sometimes students charged with underage DUI must also undergo disciplinary hearings at their high school or college. Clearly, underage DUI is not a minor infraction, nor is it a simple one to resolve. Just like a “regular” DUI, it is important to seek the services an experienced defense attorney when you or your child is facing underage DUI charges.

Subsequent Charges will Lead to Harsher Consequences

While the BAC (blood alcohol content) for a driver who is over 21 is .08%, the level for legal intoxication if the driver is underage is .02%. If the BAC was over .05% then the possible penalties can be even more severe, and they will become more severe yet if the BAC is over .08%. A DUI conviction can mean that any subsequent charges will lead to harsher consequences. The “look back” period for determining whether a DUI charge is considered a second offense is five years. You do not want your DUI conviction to be hanging over your head for half a decade.

If you are under the age of 21, then it is extremely likely that you have never been on the “wrong side of the law” before. This can make all the legalese and penalties frightening and overwhelming. It is especially scary to feel as if your transition into adulthood has been ruined before it even got started. We believe that young people should not be facing maximum penalties because of an error in judgment. Our goal is to provide you with the most aggressive defense possible so that you can move on with your life.

Free and Confidential Consultations

Procrastination is one thing when it comes to studying for your midterm exams, when the worst consequence is a bad grade that you can make up in the next term. A DUI is a serious charge and one that must be addressed right away. It is vital that you not procrastinate when it comes to an issue that has the potential to give you a criminal record that will haunt you for years to come.
If you or your child has been charged with Underage DUI or a DUI-related crime in Orlando, Tampa, Sarasota or Clearwater, contact our firm as soon as possible. We provide free and confidential consultations and will answer any questions and address any concerns that you may have.