DUI Under 21 Georgia
In Georgia and throughout the United States, turning 21 is one of the most eagerly awaited events in a person's life, as it is the birthday that marks the moment a person is officially recognized as an adult and legally allowed to consume alcohol. Although federal law prohibits the use of alcohol by anyone under the age of 21, underage drinking remains fairly common in our society—a fact that is evident by the number of drivers who are arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) under 21 in Georgia.
Like many other states, Georgia has strict Zero Tolerance laws that are designed to deter minors from operating a vehicle after consuming alcohol. Under these guidelines, a person under 21 can be charged with DUI if he or she has a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.02% or higher—an amount well-below the 0.08% limit drivers 21 and older are allowed. Unfortunately, this means you can be arrested and charged with drunk driving if you are underage and have even a small amount of alcohol in your bloodstream.
If you are arrested for underage DUI in Georgia, you will face many of the same penalties as any other driver: license suspension, fees, probation, community service, and even jail time. However, as an underage offender, you risk losing your driving privileges for much longer than a person who has reached the legal drinking age (typically six months or more).
It is also important to understand the impact an under 21 DUI could have on your future. As a criminal offense, a drunk driving conviction will remain on your criminal record for the rest of your life—which means you can expect problems when the time comes for you to find a job or obtain housing. If you’re a student, your conviction could even disqualify you from certain scholarships, financial aid resources, and numerous other educational opportunities.
Despite all these penalties, the most important thing to remember is that being arrested for under 21 DUI is very different from being convicted of the offense—and that can’t happen unless the state proves you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Therefore, if you have a strong defense strategy, you may be able to challenge the charges against you and avoid being convicted of a Georgia DUI charge.
Of course, it can be quite difficult to take on the prosecution and successfully fight your DUI arrest. Most drivers must obtain legal representation in order to avoid a conviction—and the Law Offices of Head, Thomas, Webb, and Willis are here to help. After years of experience representing underage drivers like you, we have what it takes to handle your case and improve your chances of winning in DUI court.
To determine the best defense strategy for your case, contact our firm today. As an exclusive DUI defense firm, we know the ins and outs of Georgia DUI law and are well-versed in the best tactics for fighting an under 21 DUI charge.
Call now to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our attorneys.
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