Georgia has strict laws and serious penalties for underage drinking and driving. While a DUI charge at any age can carry life-altering consequences, the impacts can be especially severe when you are under 21.
It is important to understand Georgia’s “zero tolerance” law for underage DUIs, the potential penalties you face, and the best ways to fight the charges. With knowledgeable legal guidance, you may be able to reduce or even avoid a damaging DUI conviction.
Georgia’s Zero Tolerance Law for Underage DUIs
Georgia, like most states, has enacted a “zero tolerance” law that sets a lower blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.02% for drivers under 21. This strict limit means you can face DUI charges even after consuming a small amount of alcohol. For adults 21 and over, the legal BAC limit is 0.08%.
Under the zero-tolerance law, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to operate a motor vehicle with any measurable or detectable amount of alcohol in their system. You do not need to be legally impaired or intoxicated. Even a small amount of alcohol can lead to a DUI charge.
This lower BAC limit reflects the state’s get-tough approach to underage drinking and driving. The zero-tolerance law aims to deter and punish any alcohol consumption by drivers under 21.
Penalties and Consequences of an Underage DUI
The penalties for an underage DUI conviction in Georgia can be severe and long-lasting. Some of the common consequences include:
- Automatic 6-month license suspension – Your license will be suspended for a minimum of 6 months for a first offense. No limited driving permit is allowed during this time.
- Fines and fees – You will face fines and fees of $300 to $1,000 for a first offense. These costs increase significantly for repeat offenses.
- Jail time – While not required for a first offense, jail time is possible even on an underage DUI first offense. Jail time is more likely for repeat offenses.
- Probation – Probation for 12 months or longer is common. This comes with strict conditions you must follow.
- Community service – You may be ordered to complete 40 hours or more of community service.
- Alcohol education program – You will likely have to complete an alcohol and drug use evaluation and enter a treatment program.
- Ignition interlock – An ignition interlock device may be required on your vehicle once your license is reinstated.
- Criminal record – A DUI conviction remains on your record for life and can hurt college, career, and other future opportunities.
These penalties become harsher with repeat underage DUI offenses. The consequences could follow you and limit your opportunities for years to come.
Fighting Underage DUI Charges in Georgia
Because the stakes are so high, it is essential to fight underage DUI charges aggressively from the start. An experienced DUI defense attorney can thoroughly examine your case for weaknesses and build the strongest possible defense.
There are effective legal defenses your lawyer may use to contest your DUI charges, such as:
- Questioning the validity of chemical BAC testing – Many underage drivers charged with DUI were not actually impaired.
- Challenging the traffic stop – If the police lacked reasonable suspicion for the initial traffic stop, any evidence gathered after that point could be inadmissible. An illegal stop provides grounds to fight the charges.
- Contesting signs of impairment – Since the legal limit is so low at 0.02% BAC, many underage drivers exhibit no signs of impairment.
- Seeking dismissal of charges – Based on the specifics of your case, your lawyer may identify procedural errors, lack of evidence, or other problems that could lead to charges being dismissed.
An experienced DUI defense lawyer will know how to apply the most effective defense strategies for your unique circumstances. Early intervention, while your case is pending, provides the best chance to reduce or dismiss charges before you face a conviction.
Take Action Now to Protect Your Future
Being arrested for DUI can be scary and overwhelming at any age. The consequences seem especially daunting when you are under 21 and facing strict penalties under Georgia’s zero-tolerance law.
However, experienced DUI defense attorneys understand the complexities of underage DUI cases. They know how to build a strong defense to fight the charges against you aggressively. With guidance, you can avoid or minimize penalties and keep your bright future on track.
If you or a loved one is facing underage DUI charges, do not delay in seeking legal help. Visit the criminal justice lawyers at Ghanouni Teen & Young Adult Defense Firm online at https://www.pglawoffice.com/ for a free case evaluation and start protecting your rights today. With an early and proactive defense, they can help you move forward and achieve your full potential.
