DUI / OUI Under 21 Years Old

Driving Under the Influence (DUI) or Operating Under the Influence (OUI) is a serious offense, particularly for individuals under 21 years old. Although underage drivers form only 10% of licensed drivers in Pennsylvania, they are involved in a disproportionately high number of DUI incidents.

Understanding the Law for Under 21 Drivers

For drivers aged 21 and older in Pennsylvania, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher leads to a DUI charge. However, for those under 21, the legal limit is drastically lower—even a BAC of 0.02% can result in a DUI. These charges carry significant consequences that could impact your future, from hindering educational pursuits to limiting career opportunities. So, if you have been charged with any of the above actions, stop waiting and consult a New Castle criminal lawyer right away.

Key Facts about Underage DUI in New Castle

Pennsylvania enforces strict DUI laws to deter underage drivers from operating a vehicle while impaired. Here’s what you need to know:

First Offense

• Jail Time: Up to 90 days
• Fines: $300 to $500
• License Suspension:
  • BAC Below 0.1%: No suspension initially.
  • BAC Above 0.1%: 12-month license suspension.

Subsequent Offenses

• Second Offense:
  • Jail Time: 5 days to 6 months
  • Fines: $300 to $2,500
  • License Suspension: 12 months

Penalties increase sharply with additional offenses, potentially involving longer jail sentences, steeper fines, and extended license suspensions.

Additional Charges You May Face

Arresting officers may also charge underage drivers with related offenses such as:

• Minor in Possession of Alcohol
• Attempting to Purchase or Transport Alcohol
• Distributing Alcohol to other underage individuals
• Using a Fake ID to purchase or obtain alcohol

Long-Term Consequences of an Underage DUI/OUI Conviction

An underage DUI conviction can have lasting effects:

1. Criminal Record

• Offenses stay indefinitely if committed under the age of 18, as they cannot be expunged from your record.

2. Higher Insurance Costs

• Convictions lead to substantial increases in insurance premiums.

3. Barriers to Employment

• Potential employers may scrutinize a criminal record, limiting opportunities.

What Is Prohibited for People Under 21 in Pennsylvania?

Anyone below the legal drinking age is prohibited from:

• Possessing alcohol
• Purchasing or attempting to purchase alcohol
• Knowingly transporting alcohol
• Consuming alcohol

According to Pennsylvania law, “alcohol” refers to malt, liquor, or brewed beverages containing an alcohol content of 0.50% or more by volume.

How Can a New Castle DUI Attorney Help You?

If you or your child is facing an underage DUI charge in New Castle, securing specialized legal representation is critical. I am Sean Logue, a New Castle DUI attorney, with extensive experience handling underage DUI cases. Here’s how I can assist you:

1. Rights Protection

• I’ll analyze whether any of your constitutional rights were violated during the traffic stop.

2. Blood Sample Examination

• Independent testing will verify the accuracy of the prosecution’s claims and challenge any discrepancies.

3. Defense Strategy Development

• I will work diligently to weaken the prosecution’s case and discredit evidence presented in court.

Hence, if you are charged for committing such felonies, make sure to have a New Castle criminal lawyer by your side for a strong defense.

Why Choose the Logue Law Group?

At Logue Law Group, we are dedicated to providing exceptional legal support for our clients across New Castle. Here’s what sets us apart:

• Proven Expertise
  • With a 10.0 Avvo rating and a reputation as a Pennsylvania Super Attorney, I consistently deliver results in DUI cases.
• Comprehensive Support
  • We guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring minimal stress for you and your family.
• Free Consultations
  • Discuss your case with our knowledgeable team at no charge to understand the possible outcomes and defenses available.

And the best way to do that is to hire a New Castle DUI attorney right away.

Protect Your Future with a Strong Defense

An underage DUI conviction can have devastating consequences for your future. Don’t face it alone. Contact Logue Law Group for immediate legal representation. Call us at (844) PITT-DUI or reach out online to schedule a free consultation with a trusted New Castle criminal lawyer.

We proudly serve the New Castle area and surrounding regions as well as Ohio and West Virginia. Take the first step to safeguarding your rights and future today.