DUI / OUI Under 21 Years Old

Driving under the influence (DUI) or operating under the influence (OUI) is a grave offense, especially for those under 21 years old. Despite comprising only 10% of licensed drivers in the State of Pennsylvania, this group experiences a disproportionately high number of drunk driving incidents. In Pennsylvania, the standard legal limit for drivers aged 21 and older is a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% to face charges. However, for young individuals under 21, registering even a slight BAC of 0.02% can result in strict criminal charges. It is crucial to understand the heavy consequences of these allegations, as they can have long-lasting effects on your life, severely limiting future educational and career opportunities.

What You Need to Know

The state implements stringent laws to deter and prevent such underage offenses. For a first offense, you may face a jail sentence of up to 90 days, along with monetary fines ranging from $300 to $500. While your driving privileges may not be suspended initially, recording a BAC level exceeding 0.1% will lead to an automatic 12-month license suspension. When facing these severe legal penalties, consulting a dedicated Mercer criminal lawyer is a vital step to take to protect your future.

Subsequent violations carry even more severe punishments. A second offense can result in a mandatory jail sentence ranging from 5 days to six months, coupled with escalated fines between $300 and $2500. Additionally, your license will be suspended for 12 months. Arresting officers may also press related charges, such as minors in possession, soliciting alcohol, distributing alcohol to other underage individuals, or possessing fake IDs to obtain alcohol. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record, which adversely impacts insurance premiums and serves as a barrier to employment. If you are under 18 years old when convicted, this offense cannot be expunged. Finding a skilled Mercer DUI attorney can help you navigate this difficult legal process.

What You Cannot do in Pennsylvania if You are Under 21:

In Pennsylvania, if you are below the legal drinking age of 21, certain activities are strictly prohibited:

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

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

How can a Mercer Underage DUI Attorney Help You?

I am attorney Sean Logue, specializing in defending clients in underage cases. With a 10.0 Avvo rating and recognized as a Pennsylvania Super Attorney, I am proud to provide passionate, integrity-driven representation. I analytically approach each case, examining whether any of your rights as a citizen were violated during the traffic stop. Furthermore, as an experienced Mercer criminal lawyer, I ensure independent examination of your blood samples to identify any discrepancies surrounding the prosecution’s evidence.

An underage conviction can significantly impact your child’s future and employment opportunities, making it crucial to mount a strong defense. I am committed to providing you with the necessary legal support, and I will vigorously defend your rights and challenge the evidence as your Mercer DUI attorney. Visit Logue Law Group in Mercer County for a free consultation to discuss the details of your case. Please dial 412.387.6901 or contact me online.