What You Should Know About Under 21 DUI Penalties

Florida has a strictly enforced zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. For drivers under the age of 21, even trace amounts of alcohol can result in far-reaching legal consequences.

Underage DUI in Florida

According to Florida state law, If you are under 21, driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02% or higher is enough to face DUI charges. This BAC threshold is significantly lower than the 0.08% limit set for drivers who are 21 and older.

Zero-Tolerance Policy

Florida’s zero-tolerance policy is designed to deter underage individuals from consuming alcohol and driving. Here’s how it works:

• Immediate License Suspension: For any driver under 21 caught behind the wheel with a BAC of 0.02% or more, the law mandates an immediate license suspension for six months. If there are subsequent offenses, the suspension period can be extended.
• Legal Consequences: Apart from license suspension, underage drivers may also face fines, mandatory DUI education programs, community service, and even jail time, depending on the severity of the offense and whether it involved any accidents or injuries.

These rules emphasize how important it is for underage drivers and their guardians to understand Florida's strict DUI laws. If charged with a DUI, it's wise to talk to a skilled DUI defense attorney in Palm Beach County, FL who can help explain your options and possibly lessen the penalties depending on the case details.

Possible Penalties

Penalties for an underage DUI in Florida vary based on several factors, including the driver's BAC at the time of arrest, previous offenses, and whether any aggravating factors were present (such as causing an accident). Here are some potential outcomes beyond license suspension:

• Community Service: Judges often include community service in the penalties for underage DUI, aiming to educate the offender on the dangers of impaired driving.
• Fines: Monetary penalties are also likely. These fines vary widely but are generally heftier if the BAC is significantly above the 0.02% threshold or if there are previous DUI offenses.
• DUI School and Counseling: Attendance at DUI education programs or alcohol abuse assessment and counseling can be mandated. These programs focus on preventing future DUI incidents by addressing the underlying issues leading to the offense.
• Additional Penalties: In cases where the BAC is extremely high (well above 0.05%), or if the incident resulted in injuries or property damage, penalties can escalate to include more extended license suspensions, increased fines, and even jail time.

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Common Questions

• What Happens if I Get Another DUI Under 21? Repeat offenses are treated more severely. A second or subsequent DUI can result in longer license suspensions, higher fines, and mandatory attendance at more intensive educational programs.
• Will an Underage DUI Show Up on My Permanent Record? A DUI conviction will appear on your criminal record, affecting future job opportunities, professional licensing, and more. Depending on the case specifics, there may be options to expunge or seal the record. It is important to discuss your permanent record with a qualified lawyer to minimize long-term consequences.
• Can an Underage DUI Affect College Admissions? An underage DUI can impact college admissions as some institutions consider legal history in their acceptance decisions. It's important to handle the charge properly so your underage DUI charge doesn’t interrupt the course of your life.
• Are There Any Ways to Reduce the Penalties for an Underage DUI? Penalties can sometimes be reduced if the offender undergoes alcohol treatment programs, community service, or probation. An experienced DUI attorney can provide guidance on the best course of action to take in hopes of reducing penalties.

Find A Qualified DUI Defense Attorney in Palm Beach County, FL

Facing an underage DUI charge in Florida requires immediate action. Be sure to write down everything you remember about the arrest and the events leading up to it, including what you consumed, the timeline of events, and your interactions with law enforcement. These details are crucial for your defense and can easily be overlooked if you're unfamiliar with the legal process.

You should also immediately seek out a qualified DUI attorney who specializes in underage cases. An experienced lawyer can challenge the accuracy of the BAC test, negotiate for lower penalties, or even get the case dismissed. Knowledge of plea bargains, court hearings, and DMV procedures is necessary to defend the rights and future of the underage driver.

Kevin Peterford is well-equipped to manage underage DUI cases in Florida. His background as a former prosecutor gives him a comprehensive understanding of DUI laws and court strategies. His approach to each case is detailed and tailored, focusing on the best possible outcome while addressing the specific concerns of the parents and young adults involved.

Build A Solid DUI Defense

Building a solid DUI defense for an underage charge in Florida requires thorough knowledge of the law, strategic legal action, and immediate response. Kevin Peterford’s expertise and dedication to his clients make him the top choice for those seeking to overcome the challenges of an underage DUI charge. If you or someone you know is facing such a charge, do not hesitate to seek professional help.

Are you concerned about underage DUI charges? Contact Kevin Peterford today for a free consultation and ensure you have the best defense on your side.