Juvenile & Underage DUI Attorney in Miami, FL

Fighting DUI Charges Against Minors & Juveniles

If you are facing DUI charges in Miami, FL, you may be wondering if a conviction will impact your driving privileges as a juvenile or an underage individual. As an underage DUI defendant, you may be wondering if you will be able to get a driver's license after a DUI conviction. The good news is that our Miami juvenile DUI lawyer can help you fight the charges against you and protect your future driving privileges. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your arrest, you can turn to our firm for help.

We understand that this is a very stressful and confusing time for you. Our goal is to help you get the best possible results in your case. We are prepared to fight for you and protect your rights. You can rest assured that we will take the time to listen to your case details and provide you with the legal representation you need and deserve.

Charged with an Underage DUI? Don’t risk your future—contact us today for a strong defense. Call (305) 985-6640 for a free consultation.

Can I Still Get My Driver's License After a DUI?

As a juvenile or underage individual, you may be wondering if you will still be able to obtain a driver's license after a DUI conviction. If you are under the age of 18, you will be facing a driver's license suspension upon a DUI conviction. However, if you are 18 years of age or older, you will be facing a driver's license revocation upon a DUI conviction. The length of time that your license will be suspended or revoked will depend on the circumstances surrounding your case.

At Jeffrey S. Weiner, P.A., we understand that you may have been falsely accused of a DUI. You may have been pulled over for a minor traffic violation and were not intoxicated at all. Even if you were intoxicated, you may have been targeted for DUI and falsely arrested.

What Are the Penalties for an Underage DUI?

Depending on the circumstances surrounding your arrest, you may be facing misdemeanor or felony charges for a DUI. If you are 18 years of age or older, you will face misdemeanor charges for a DUI. However, if you are under the age of 18, you will face misdemeanor charges for a DUI. The penalties for a misdemeanor DUI conviction include:

• A $500 fine
• Up to 6 months in jail
• 50 hours of community service
• A driver's license suspension
• Vehicle impoundment

If you are facing felony charges for a DUI, you may be facing up to 5 years in prison and a $5,000 fine. The penalties for a felony DUI conviction include:

• Up to 5 years in prison
• A $5,000 fine
• A driver's license revocation
• Vehicle impoundment
• An ignition interlock device

Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your arrest, you can count on Jeffrey S. Weiner, P.A. to protect your rights and fight to obtain the best possible results in your case. We will take the time to listen to your case details and provide you with the legal representation you need and deserve.

Underage DUI & Florida’s Zero-Tolerance Law

Florida has strict Zero-Tolerance Laws for drivers under the age of 21. Unlike standard DUI laws for adults, where the legal Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) limit is 0.08%, underage drivers face consequences for a BAC as low as 0.02%. This means that even a small amount of alcohol can lead to serious legal trouble.

• Key Facts About Florida’s Underage DUI Laws:
  • A BAC of 0.02% or higher leads to an automatic driver’s license suspension for six months.
  • If the BAC is 0.05% or higher, the driver must complete an alcohol education course before regaining driving privileges.
  • If BAC is 0.08% or higher, the penalties are the same as an adult DUI, including possible jail time and heavy fines.
  • A second offense results in a one-year license suspension.

These strict regulations are meant to discourage underage drinking and driving, but they can also lead to harsh penalties for minor mistakes. That’s why it’s crucial to have an experienced DUI defense attorney on your side.

Legal Defenses for Juvenile & Underage DUI Cases

A DUI charge does not always mean a conviction. Several legal defenses may apply to your case, depending on the circumstances.

• Common DUI Defenses:
  • Lack of Probable Cause – If the police did not have a valid reason to stop you, your case could be dismissed.
  • Faulty Breathalyzer or Field Sobriety Tests – Breathalyzers can produce false readings, and field sobriety tests are subjective and prone to error.
  • Involuntary Intoxication – If someone spiked your drink without your knowledge, this could be a valid defense.
  • Violation of Constitutional Rights – If you were denied legal representation or improperly questioned, the charges could be challenged.

An experienced attorney will investigate all aspects of your case to find the best defense strategy.

DUI Diversion Programs & Alternative Sentencing for Minors

For first-time underage DUI offenders, Florida offers diversion programs that can help avoid a permanent criminal record.

• Options for Alternative Sentencing:
  • DUI diversion programs – Completing alcohol education courses and probation could lead to charges being dropped.
  • Community service – Instead of jail time, offenders may be required to complete a set number of community service hours.
  • Reduced penalties – In some cases, an attorney may negotiate for a lesser charge, such as reckless driving, which carries lighter penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Underage DUI in Florida

Can I refuse a breathalyzer test if I’m under 21?

• Florida has implied consent laws, meaning that by driving, you automatically agree to take a breathalyzer test if asked by law enforcement. If you refuse, your driver’s license will be suspended for one year, even if you were not drinking. A second refusal can lead to an 18-month suspension and possible misdemeanor charges.

Will an underage DUI affect my college applications or scholarships?

• Yes, a DUI conviction can impact your future education. Some colleges may deny admission to students with a criminal record, and scholarships could be revoked. Certain professional programs, such as law, medicine, and nursing, may also have strict policies regarding DUI offenses.

Can my parents be held responsible if I’m caught drinking and driving?

• In some cases, yes. If a parent knowingly allowed you to consume alcohol underage, they could face civil liability or even criminal charges. This is especially true if the alcohol was provided at their home or if they allowed you to drive while intoxicated.

Will a DUI stay on my record forever?

• A juvenile DUI may be eligible for expungement or sealing, but this depends on the circumstances of your case. If you were convicted as an adult, the DUI will likely remain on your record permanently, which can affect employment, housing, and insurance rates.

What happens if I was driving with underage passengers while intoxicated?

• Having underage passengers in the car during a DUI can result in enhanced penalties, including additional fines, community service, or child endangerment charges. This can make your case more serious and may lead to a longer license suspension or even jail time.

Can I get a hardship license if my license is suspended?

• Possibly. If your license is suspended for an underage DUI, you may apply for a hardship license, which allows you to drive to work, school, or essential activities. However, you must complete a DUI education program before applying.

Do I need a lawyer for an underage DUI?

• Yes! Even if this is your first offense, a lawyer can help fight the charges, reduce penalties, or even get the case dismissed. A DUI conviction can impact your future, so having experienced legal representation is crucial.

Contact Our Juvenile & Underage DUI Attorney in Miami, FL

Our Miami juvenile & underage DUI lawyer has handled countless DUI cases throughout Miami and the surrounding areas. Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your arrest, you can turn to our firm for help. We will take the time to listen to your case details and provide you with the legal representation you need and deserve. We are prepared to fight for you and protect your rights. You can rest assured that we will take the time to listen to your case details and provide you with the legal representation you need and deserve.

Need Legal Help Now? A DUI can have serious consequences. Contact us to protect your rights and explore your options. Call (305) 985-6640 today!