You may be a legal adult and living on your own, but there are still certain restrictions on your actions. One thing you cannot do before the age of 21 is purchase alcohol, and having it in your possession can lead to serious legal trouble. This is also the case for minor drivers who are caught by law enforcement driving with any discernible amount of alcohol in their systems.
This is because of the zero tolerance. Florida law simply has no tolerance for underage drinking and driving, and doing this can lead to penalties that may change the course of your life. If you are facing these charges, you will find it beneficial to learn about your defense options as soon as possible. Your future is at stake, and it is worth protecting.
What do these charges mean for you?
The law says that a person under the age of 21 cannot possess or purchase alcohol. The law also takes a strong stance against underage drinking. Driving after consuming alcohol if you are not yet 21 is a violation of multiple laws, even if it was just one drink or you are not really drunk. Consider the following:
- You can face drunk driving charges even if you have a blood alcohol concentration of just 0.02% if you are a minor.
- Police do not have to prove the intoxication of a minor driver as long as he or she is over the per se limit, which is 0.02%
- A conviction for underage drunk driving can impact your life for years to come, including your college career.
As a young driver, your entire life is ahead of you. One drunk driving offense may not seem like a big deal, but it can impact you for years to come. It is in your interests to take your situation seriously and work diligently to fight for your long-term interests.
Your defense should start now
You can work with an experienced attorney regarding your DUI defense strategy. You would be prudent to start this process as soon as possible after an arrest. With the right support and experienced legal guidance, you can work to protect your future, freedom and opportunities.
If you are unsure of where to begin this process, you may want to begin by seeking a complete assessment of your case and explanation of the options available to you. There is a lot on the line, but you do not have to face it alone.