DUI / OUI Under 21 Years Old

Driving under the influence (DUI) or operating under the influence (OUI) is a serious legal offense, especially for individuals under 21 years of age. Despite making up just 10% of all licensed drivers in Pennsylvania, this age group is involved in a disproportionately high number of DUI incidents. Young drivers need to understand the significant legal and personal consequences of these charges, as they can impact education, career, and overall future opportunities.

Legal Blood Alcohol Limits for Under 21 Drivers in Pennsylvania

For drivers aged 21 and older, Pennsylvania law sets the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at 0.08%. However, for individuals under 21, the threshold is far stricter. A BAC of just 0.02% can result in a DUI charge. This level can be reached with even a small amount of alcohol, making it critical for younger drivers to avoid drinking entirely if they plan to get behind the wheel.

Consequences of an Underage DUI Charge in Somerset

The state of Pennsylvania enforces strict penalties for underage DUI offenders to deter such behaviors. Here are the potential consequences:

First Offense:

• Jail Time: Up to 90 days in jail.
• Fines: Between $300 and $500.
• License Suspension: While a first-time offense may not lead to license suspension, a BAC exceeding 0.10% will result in a 12-month suspension.

Second Offense:

• Jail Time: Between 5 days and 6 months in jail.
• Fines: Between $300 and $2,500.
• License Suspension: A mandatory 12-month suspension.

Additional offenses can compound the severity of the penalties. Charges such as possession of alcohol by a minor, using a fake ID to purchase alcohol, or supplying alcohol to other underage individuals can also be filed, increasing legal repercussions.

A conviction for underage DUI results in a permanent criminal record, potentially raising insurance premiums and limiting future education and employment opportunities. For those convicted under the age of 18, the offense cannot be expunged, remaining on their record indefinitely.

When facing such charges, it’s essential to seek the counsel of a Somerset criminal lawyer experienced in underage DUI defense.

Actions Prohibited for Underage Individuals in Pennsylvania

If you’re under 21 years old in Pennsylvania, the law prohibits specific alcohol-related actions, including:

• Possessing alcohol.
• Purchasing or attempting to purchase alcohol.
• Transporting alcohol intentionally.
• Consuming alcohol.

The term “alcohol” in legal terminology applies to any malt, liquor, or brewed beverage containing 0.50% alcohol by volume or more.

How a Somerset DUI Attorney Can Assist You

Attorney Sean Logue, a dedicated Somerset DUI attorney, has years of experience defending underage DUI cases. His expertise ensures clients are well-represented and their rights protected. With a notable 10.0 Avvo rating and designation as a Pennsylvania Super Attorney, he approaches every case thoroughly and analytically to uncover any potential errors that occurred during the traffic stop or investigation.

Here’s How Attorney Sean Logue Can Help:

1. Reviewing Your Rights: Scrutinizing the arrest to identify procedural violations or rights infringements.
2. Independent Blood Sample Examination: Ensuring blood sample results are accurate and free from discrepancies.
3. Discrediting Evidence: Challenging weak or improperly obtained evidence presented by the prosecution.

An underage DUI charge can have long-lasting effects on your life, but a strong legal defense can make a difference. With the help of a Somerset criminal lawyer from Logue Law Group, you can fight the charges and protect your future.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Somerset DUI Attorney

To learn how we can assist you with an underage DUI case, visit the Logue Law Group in Somerset. You can schedule a consultation with our team by calling (844) PITT-DUI or contacting us online. We serve clients throughout the Somerset area, as well as nearby counties. Additionally, we provide legal services in Ohio and West Virginia.

Don’t wait. Protect your rights and discuss your case today with an experienced Somerset criminal lawyer.