Facing DUI charges as a minor in Georgia?

The underage DUI laws in Georgia are extremely strict. When an individual is under the age of 21 and registers a blood alcohol concentration of .02% or above, they stand to face multiple penalties, including a suspended license. If the individual registers at .08% or higher, the penalty includes a suspended license for a year. In either case, it is almost certain an underage driver will not be able to drive again for a minimum of 120 days. Furthermore, in underage DUI cases there is no option for a restricted license for work or school. The defendant's license is suspended and in order to get it returned they have to meet specific requirements mandated by the court. In many cases, there are options for the defense in underage DUI cases, which is why it is vital to contact a DUI lawyer as soon after an arrest as possible.

These laws were enacted as a deterrent for young people who may consider drinking and driving. However, because people under the age of 21 can be arrested with minimal amounts of alcohol in their system, minors can face DUI charges even if they aren't driving dangerously. As long as the breath or blood test shows the driver's BAC is .02% or more, the driver will be arrested and taken into custody on DUI charges.

If your son or daughter has been arrested on DUI charges, or if you yourself are under 21 and are facing DUI charges, a Georgia DUI defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Richard S. Lawson can help. You can trust your attorney to perform a thorough review of the circumstances and evidence involved in your case to determine what can be done to effectively fight your charges.