Underage DUI

Panama City Underage DUI Lawyer

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The drinking age in Florida is 21, making it illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to consume alcohol. Any underage driver who is found with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .02 or higher will receive an administrative suspension of one’s driving privileges. In all reality, this zero tolerance law results in a reality of underage individuals not being able to consume even one alcoholic drink and subsequently operate a vehicle.

If you are under 21 and register a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.5 or higher, you will be required to complete a substance abuse class. Likewise, an underage person also is subject to Florida’s regular Driving Under the Influence statute, meaning a juvenile can also suffer criminal prosecution for Driving Under the Influence much as an adult over the age of 21. If you were recently charged, it is imperative that you move quickly to obtain legal representation.

Panama City DUI Attorney Albert J. Sauline, III understands the gravity of underage alcohol offenses. He is prepared to utilize more than 20 years of legal experience and his background as a former Prosecutor to fight for you in the courtroom. Voted the #1 Attorney in the Best of Bay 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019 you can have confidence with Attorney Sauline by your side.

Understanding the Charges & Penalties for Underage Drivers

Florida’s criminal justice system frowns upon underage drivers arrested for DUI. Despite being a juvenile, the consequences can be severe. For example, an individual driving at the age of 16 or 18 will be prosecuted in adult criminal Court with DUI charges, notwithstanding their juvenile age. Depending on the BAC of the driver, penalties can include the same punishments as applicable to an adult, other than any jail time would actually be in a juvenile detention facility until one turns the age of 18, at which time one would be moved to an adult jail facility.

Along with Driving Under the Influence, however, an underage drinker, or those assisting individuals under the age of 21 to consume alcohol, may also be charged with a number of other indictments, including:

Distributing alcohol to minors
Soliciting alcohol
Child endangerment law violations
Minor in possession
Possession of false identification
Moving violations

The sting of such charges can be long-lasting, affecting not only your reputation, but both your car insurance and your personal freedoms. It is simply not worth taking any chances with your case. The sooner you consult an attorney, the better it will be for your case in the long run.

Panama City DUI Lawyer Dedicated to Your Case

As you consider what the future holds, you may feel fearful and anxious. This is entirely natural, but much of this can be alleviated when you speak with Attorney Sauline. He takes the time to address his clients’ concerns and is intentional about keeping them closely involved every step of the way. His legal team operates on efficiency, always working to stay one step ahead of the prosecution.

Commonly Asked Questions

What are the potential consequences for a juvenile DUI in Florida?

In Florida, underage drivers arrested for DUI face severe consequences similar to adults. This includes penalties based on the driver's BAC level, and while jail time for minors is served in a juvenile detention facility, once they turn 18, they may be moved to an adult jail. Additionally, the repercussions can extend to their car insurance rates, personal freedoms, and overall reputation.

Can a minor be charged with offenses other than DUI in Florida?

Yes, minors in Florida can face multiple charges in addition to DUI. These charges can include distributing alcohol to minors, soliciting alcohol, child endangerment law violations, minor in possession, possession of false identification, and various moving violations. Each of these charges carries its own set of penalties and can significantly impact a minor's future.

How can a DUI charge affect a juvenile's future in Florida?

A DUI charge can have a profound impact on a juvenile's future in Florida. Beyond the immediate legal consequences, it can tarnish their reputation, lead to increased car insurance premiums, and restrict their personal freedoms. It can also affect future opportunities, such as college admissions, employment prospects, and professional licensing.

Why is it important to consult an attorney early for a juvenile DUI case in Florida?

Consulting an attorney early in the process of a juvenile DUI case in Florida is crucial. An attorney can provide guidance, help protect the juvenile's rights, and work on building a strong defense strategy. Early intervention can also lead to more favorable outcomes, such as reduced charges or alternative sentencing options that may be less damaging to the juvenile's future.

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