Drivers Under 21 Years Old: Understanding DUI/OUI Laws

Driving under the influence (DUI) or operating under the influence (OUI) is a serious offense, especially for those under 21 years old. Despite comprising just 10% of licensed drivers in the State of Pennsylvania, this group is involved in a disproportionate number of DUI incidents.

Pennsylvania has set a legal limit of 0.08% blood alcohol concentration (BAC) for drivers aged 21 and older to be charged with a DUI. However, for those under 21, even a BAC of 0.02% can result in a DUI charge. Understanding the consequences is crucial, as they can have long-lasting impacts on your life, affecting educational and career opportunities.

Key Information to Understand

Here’s what you need to know about underage DUI in Pennsylvania:

• Strict Penalties: The state has implemented stringent laws to deter and prevent underage DUI offenses. For a first offense, you may face up to 90 days in jail and fines ranging from $300 to $500. While your license may not be immediately suspended, a BAC level exceeding 0.1% could lead to a 12-month suspension.

• Severe Consequences: Subsequent offenses carry even more severe penalties. A second offense can result in a jail sentence ranging from 5 days to six months, coupled with fines ranging from $300 to $2500. Your license will also be suspended for 12 months.

• Related Offenses: Arresting officers may also press charges for related offenses, including minor in possession, soliciting alcohol, distributing alcohol to other underage individuals, or possession of fake IDs used to obtain alcohol.

• Permanent Criminal Record: A conviction for underage DUI creates a permanent criminal record that can impact your insurance premiums and limit future employment opportunities. It’s important to note that if you’re under 18 years old at the time of conviction, this offense cannot be expunged and will remain on your record indefinitely.

• When faced with an underage DUI/OUI charge, it’s vital to seek immediate legal representation. Contact a reputable Beaver criminal attorney who specializes in handling underage DUI cases to guide you through the legal process.

Underage Activities Prohibited in Pennsylvania:

Are you under the legal drinking age of 21 in Pennsylvania? If so, it’s important to be aware of the activities that are strictly forbidden:

• Possessing alcohol
• Purchasing alcohol
• Attempting to buy alcohol
• Intentionally and knowingly transporting alcohol
• Consuming alcohol

According to Pennsylvania law, alcohol includes any malt, liquor, or brewed beverage with an alcohol content of 0.50 percent by volume.

Need Help with an Underage DUI Case in Beaver?

If you find yourself facing an underage DUI charge in Beaver, I’m here to assist you. My name is Attorney Sean Logue, and I have dedicated my practice to defending clients in DUI cases, including numerous underage DUI cases over the years. With a 10.0 Avvo rating and the recognition as a Pennsylvania Super Attorney, you can trust I will provide passionate and integrity-driven representation.

When handling your case, I thoroughly analyze the details, paying close attention to whether any of your rights as a citizen were violated during the traffic stop. Additionally, I ensure an independent examination of your blood samples to identify any discrepancies surrounding the prosecution’s case. As an experienced Beaver criminal lawyer, I will vigorously defend your rights, challenge the charges brought against you, and discredit any evidence presented in court.

The impact of an underage DUI conviction can be significant, affecting your child’s future and employment opportunities. It’s crucial to mount a strong defense when facing these charges. Rest assured that I am committed to providing you with the necessary legal support and protecting your rights.

If you’re seeking legal assistance in the Beaver area, including the surrounding counties, Ohio, and West Virginia, please visit Logue Law Group for a free consultation with a Beaver DUI attorney. During our meeting, we can thoroughly discuss the details of your case and develop a strategic plan. You can reach us by dialing (844) PITT-DUI or 412-389-0805, or by contacting me online.

Put your trust in the Logue Law Group for comprehensive legal support and representation in matters of underage DUI.