Even if you are not old enough to legally drink alcoholic beverages, you can still be arrested and charged with a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) or DUI (Driving Under the Influence). The legal blood alcohol limit for minors is considerably lower than the limit for adults, 0.02 vs. 0.08, meaning that virtually any alcohol consumption can result in a DWI.
Minors and underage offenders who are charged with a DWI or DUI face serious penalties. If you are convicted of a DWI/DUI charge, you can lose your driver’s license and gain a criminal record that will follow you for life. You could be denied admittance to the school of your choice and even excluded from certain professions, such as law and medicine. A first offense can result in a fine of up to $250, and the person must also participate in a court-approved substance abuse and driver improvement program. The penalties for conviction of a second offense are even steeper. The minor or underage offender faces a fine up to $500 and jail time from 10 days to three months. The person can avoid lengthy imprisonment by participating in a court-approved substance abuse and driver improvement program along with serving two days in jail or completing 10 eight-hour days of community service. A criminal record can be damaging to your future, making it difficult to obtain future employment.
If you are charged as a minor or young adult (under age 21), you may also be charged with additional violations. These violations could add to your potential sentence and other penalties.
We know that this is a frightening and uncertain time. We can guide you through the defense process, answering your questions and concerns quickly. Our attorneys work with you to determine the most effective defense available for your case, and we strive to reduce or dismiss your charges in all cases.
If you or a loved one has been arrested or charged with a DWI, DUI, or related charges, contact the experienced New Orleans DUI lawyers Harmon Smith & Vourvoulias. Our attorneys tirelessly defend your rights, working to provide the best possible result for your case and minimize or avoid potential consequences.