If your child has been arrested for Underage DUI, you need an experienced juvenile defense attorney in Bucks County who will work aggressively to defend the charges.

What is Underage DUI in PA?

In Pennsylvania, all non-commercial drivers age 21 and over are considered legally drunk when their blood alcohol level (BAC) is .08 or more. However, for those under the age of 21, any measurable amount of alcohol in their blood constitutes a criminal offense. Furthermore, a minor may be charged with an Underage DUI if he or she has a BAC of 0.02 percent or more.

Section 3802e of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code states:

A minor may not drive, operate or be in actual physical control of the movement of a vehicle after imbibing a sufficient amount of alcohol such that the alcohol concentration in the minor’s blood or breath is 0.02% or higher within two hours after the minor has driven, operated or been in actual physical control of the movement of the vehicle.

Underage DUI = Zero Tolerance

It is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase, attempt to purchase, consume, possess or transport alcoholic beverages in PA. In addition, Pennsylvania’s Zero Tolerance Law carries serious penalties for those under age 21 who are convicted of driving with any amount of alcohol in their blood. Drivers under 21 who are convicted of DUI with a .02 BAC or more face severe penalties including:

  • 12-to 18-month license suspension
  • 48 hours to six months in jail
  • Fines from $500 to $5,000
  • Court costs

Underage Drinking

Alcohol cannot be legally purchased or consumed by those under the age of 21 in Pennsylvania. In addition, a vehicle does not have to be involved in order for them to lose their driving privileges. It is against the law for a minor to consume, possess or transport alcohol, lie about their age to obtain alcohol or carry a fake identification card. If convicted, the minimum penalties are:

  • Fines up to $500
  • 90-day license suspension for the first offense
  • One-year suspension for the second offense
  • Two-year suspension for the third and subsequent offenses

Additional Underage Drinking Charges

In addition to a Juvenile DUI, an underage drinker may be charged with any of the following:

  • Furnishing alcohol to other minors
  • Soliciting alcohol
  • Possession of false identification
  • Public Drunkenness
  • Moving and vehicle maintenance violations
  • And more

Long-Term Consequences of an Underage DUI

If a person under age 21 is convicted of DUI, it can have a profound impact on his or her life. In addition to a license suspension, possible incarceration, and fines, a DUI charge can lead to long-term consequences that can severely impact the minor’s future. The cost of auto insurance will rise astronomically. But most importantly, a DUI on his or her record can dramatically affect employment prospects and limit educational opportunities.

Underage DUI Defense in Bucks County

Protect your child’s future! Contact The Law Office of Sharif N. Abaza now for an aggressive juvenile defense and to schedule a FREE initial consultation to discuss your case.

 

MORE INFORMATION:

What is the ARD Program in Pennsylvania?

What if you refuse the chemical test?

For more info on Pennsylvania’s Teen Driver’s License and Insurance Requirements, click here.