Teen drivers have lower requirements for a DUI than adult drivers and can face more severe consequences. If they choose to get behind the wheel while intoxicated, both the teen and their parents can end up with fines, license suspensions, increased insurance rates, and even potential criminal charges.
Working with a Pickens County underage DUI lawyer could help you get the support you need to navigate this complicated situation. The seasoned DUI attorney at Christopher L. Jones, Attorney at Law, could fight to protect the teen’s rights, develop a strong defense strategy, and work toward minimizing the penalties.
DUI Requirements for Teens
For an adult to face a DUI conviction, they must have a BAC of at least .08 percent. On the other hand, drivers under 21 can be convicted of a DUI for driving with a BAC of just .02 percent. A teen who refuses a chemical test to determine BAC can still face consequences, including a longer license suspension than a teen who submitted to the test.
Potential Legal Consequences for Teen DUI
Teen drivers convicted of driving under the influence in Pickens County can face several potential consequences.
- Fines: Up to $400 for a first offense
- Jail time: Between 48 hours and 30 days in jail for a first offense
- License suspension: Three to six months for the first offense, depending on whether the teen refused to submit to a chemical test to determine BAC
If a teen driver has their license suspended, they may have to enroll in an Alcohol and Drug Safety Action Program, which will provide education about drinking and driving.
Other Consequences for Underage DUI
In addition to significant legal challenges related to a DUI, teens may face a number of consequences in their personal lives. A DUI establishes a record for that teen, which can make it difficult for them to get future jobs or get into some colleges. They may be denied scholarships on the basis of those charges. Furthermore, individuals with a DUI on their record may not be able to work in some industries or take on some types of employment, which can interfere with a teen’s future.
A legal professional in Pickens County could help teens and their families understand the legal process, explore potential defenses, and work to minimize the long-term impact of a DUI conviction.
Defending Against Underage DUI Charges
Teen DUIs often carry significant consequences that can last for the rest of their life. A comprehensive defense is essential to protecting their freedoms. Whether you are a teen charged with DUI or a parent who is struggling with your child’s negligent behaviors, working with a lawyer is essential to protecting the future. Common defenses include:
- Showing that rights were violated
- Involuntary/unknown intoxication
- Inadequate proof of impairment, including faulty breathalyzer tests
A Pickens County underage DUI attorney could discuss your legal options with you and your family following a traffic stop that resulted in DUI charges and provide essential resources for help avoiding future incidents.
Contact a Pickens County Attorney About an Underage DUI Today
Dealing with underage DUI charges can feel incredibly daunting. Not only can a conviction mean immediate short-term limitations on a teen’s driving ability, but it can also mean long-term challenges, including limitations on the teen’s freedom.
If your family is facing a DUI conviction for an underage driver, you need a Pickens County underage DUI lawyer to help fight for you. Contact former prosecutor Christopher L. Jones today to discuss your options and build your defense.
