Van Nuys Under 21 DUI Attorney
Charged with DUI as a Minor?
In the state of California, it is illegal for an individual under the age of 21 to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .01% or higher if he or she has consumed any alcoholic beverages. If you or your loved one has been arrested for drunk driving underage, it is important that you do everything you can to protect their future. The first step is to hire a Van Nuys DUI lawyer at the Law Offices of Loren M. Merlin.
Penalties for driving under the influence when under the age of 21 include:
- .01%-.04% BAC is a violation of California's "Zero Tolerance" policy and will result in a one year license suspension or one year delay in receiving your license.
- .05%-.07% BAC is an infraction, meaning that it is neither a misdemeanor nor a felony. A first conviction will result in a $100 fine, a second will result in a $200 fine, and a third within a year will result in a $300 fine. In addition, you will also be subject to penalties under the "Zero Tolerance" policy, which include losing your license for one year, being prohibited from drinking alcohol until you are 21, being prohibited from using any illegal substances, and completing a three month alcohol education program.
- .08% or greater BAC is a misdemeanor, although you will also receive the "Zero Tolerance" and infraction penalties if you are convicted. Consequences of a DUI include three to five years of probation, up to $1,000 in fines, installation of an ignition interlock device and up to a year in county jail or juvenile detention. Aggravating circumstances such as having a prior record will result in stiffer penalties.
DUI Defense in Sherman Oaks, Encino, and Studio City
As an advocate for your rights, your attorney will listen to your story, investigate in detail every aspect of your case, and build a strong defense on your behalf. Do not allow a youthful mistake to influence your life for years to come. Call us today to set up a free consultation!
Contact a Van Nuys Under 21 DUI Attorney at the Law Offices of Loren M. Merlin as soon as possible if you or your child has been charged with underage drunk driving.