It is an unfortunate fact that many fatalities involving young drivers are alcohol-related. In South Carolina, the Zero Tolerance Policy discourages young drivers from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drivers aged 21 or under could be charged with a DUI if they are found driving under the influence, regardless of whether or not their faculties are impaired.
Get the legal help you need from a Greenville underage DUI lawyer. An experienced DUI attorney could mean the difference between an overturned charge and a life-changing conviction.
Underage DUI Facts
The Zero Tolerance Policy in South Carolina means that minors can be charged with a DUI after just one drink, even if they are not physically impaired. A DUI charge is based on blood alcohol content (BAC). For minors, the limit is very low, at .02% BAC. The limit for adults is .08% BAC.
A first-offense underage DUI conviction could result in a license suspension of up to three months. Further offenses could increase the length of a license suspension. Underage DUI convictions also lead to insurance rate changes, making it difficult to afford auto coverage.
An underage DUI lawyer in Greenville could explain other potential consequences, such as loss of certain school scholarships, restrictions from participating in school sports, and a record that makes it more difficult to get a job.
Potential Penalties for a BAC of .08% or Higher
Penalties increase when your BAC is .08% or higher. At this point, you could get charged with a DUI instead of an Underage DUI, even if you are under 21. A first-offense DUI charge could result in a license suspension of six months, a $400 fine, jail time between 48 hours and 30 days, and 48 hours of public service.
An underage DUI lawyer in Greenville may be able to overturn DUI charges or reduce penalties.
How an Underage DUI Lawyer Helps
Working with a seasoned underage DUI lawyer in Greenville is your best defense against potential convictions and penalties. Here are some ways that a lawyer could help you after being charged with an underage DUI:
- Explain the legal nuances of the underage DUI charge
- Carefully review all evidence, such as the police report and the BAC test results
- Develop strategies to weaken the prosecutor’s case
- Negotiate plea bargains, which may reduce penalties
- Advocate for you in court, fighting for your rights
An underage DUI charge is serious, but not the end of all your hopes and dreams. With the help of a dedicated lawyer, the charge could be lessened or overturned.
Reach Out to an Underage DUI Lawyer in Greenville
Christopher L. Jones, Attorney at Law has represented many individuals with underage DUI charges. He listens carefully to what you have to say about your situation, and he examines your case thoroughly. He understands the laws pertaining to underage drinking and driving and can give you sound advice about your next legal steps.
Chris Jones has a reputation for being accessible and responsive to client communication, so you get the best of a small firm while experiencing big firm results. To learn more about your legal options from a seasoned Greenville underage DUI lawyer, reach out today to schedule a free consultation.
