And The Penalties That Come With That Arrest
In the state of Florida, it is entirely possible to be charged with a DUI while under the age of 21. In fact, Florida has a “zero tolerance” policy regarding under-age drinking and driving. With that being said, potential consequences for under-aged drinking and driving are very serious.
While the legal BAC limit for adults over the age of 21 is a .08% in the State of Florida, persons under the age of 21 have a legal BAC limit of .02%.
Under 21 with a BAC over .02%: For first-offense under 21 DUI, your license can be suspended for 6 months. For a second-offense under 21 DUI, your license can be suspended for up to a year.
Failing to submit to a chemical test: Persons under the age of 21 who fails to submit to breath or bloods tests can lose their license for up to a year.
Under 21 with a BAC over .08%: For a first-offense under 21 DUI with a BAC over .08%, the penalties are the same as those for someone arrested who is over the age of 21. This means fines ranging from $500-$1000, vehicle impound, 50 hours of community service, and incarceration for up to 6 months in the county jail.
Minors under the age of 18 who are arrested for a DUI may also face a driver’s license suspension, as well as the potential to be taken to a treatment facility for addiction, as well as mandatory education courses.
DUIs in Florida are not to be taken lightly, especially as a minor. Having a DUI on your record, especially as a minor, has serious consequences. These kinds of charges can effect college applications, scholarship opportunity, jobs, and even the ability to find a place to live.
If you or your child has been arrested for a DUI in Okaloosa, Walton, or Santa Rosa County, don’t wait. Call today to speak with an experienced DUI and juvenile defense attorney for a free consultation.
At Emerald Coast Defense, we take your case seriously. We are open 7 days a week, 24 hours a day to help you with your case.
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Thomas Shawn Lupella P.A.
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