Tampa Underage DUI Attorney

Under 21 DUI and Zero Tolerance in Florida

The state of Florida has a zero tolerance policy with regard to minors driving that are caught drinking and driving. The legal limit for any person under 21 who operates a motor vehicle is .02%. If an underage driver is found exceeding this limit, they will face a license suspension for 6 months. A substance abuse evaluation and any recommended treatment is usually required before license reinstatement.

If an underage driver had a blood alcohol level of .08 or higher, then all of the criminal penalties normally associated with a DUI kick in. This includes probation, suspension of their drivers' license, fines, community service, and jail. They will also suffer secondary consequences in addition to these penalties including potential problems getting a good job, and increased insurance rates.

Penalties for Underage Drunk Driving

If your young person has been charged with DUI, it is vital that you seek the help of a Tampa DUI lawyer at once. The legal team at our firm understands how important the outcome of the case is to the accused young person and will take immediate defense action to reduce the damage. There are many possible defenses that could be identified and employed to seek a dismissed case or reduced charge.

Under Florida law, any person under the age of 21 can be asked to submit to a breath, urine, or blood test by a law enforcement officer to determine their blood alcohol content (BAC) if the officer has probable cause. Should the individual's BAC register .02% (and below .08), the person's license will be confiscated and a 10 day temporary permit will be issued that becomes effective 12 hours after issuance.

Contact a Tampa DUI defense lawyer today!

It is vital that you contact our legal team who can review all the evidence and determine how to best defend the case. The Law Office of Timothy Hessinger has had experience in defending all types of intoxicated driving cases, including those involving minors, as well as felony DUI cases. We have extensive experience in defending underage DUI cases effectively. Early involvement, directly after the arrest, is crucial. Contact a Tampa underage DUI lawyer if you or your child is in need of legal assistance after being arrested for drunk driving.