Underage DUI

St. Augustine Underage DUI Attorney

Your future is on the line. Protect yours with Taylor & Waldrop Attorneys!

In Florida, the legal drinking age is 21 years and anyone under the age of 21 found consuming, purchasing, or possessing alcohol is in violation of the law. Unlike other DUI-related offenses, Florida's law enforcement officials will hold underage individuals to a different set of standards.

In order to be arrested for an underage DUI, underage drivers will need to be found with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level of 0.02% or higher. For many people, simply consuming one alcoholic beverage can put them over the legal BAC limit.

Other potential criminal charges could include:

  • Distributing alcohol to other minors
  • Minor in possession
  • Soliciting alcohol
  • Possession of false identification to purchase alcohol
  • Moving vehicle violations

Because underage DUI offenses can be associated with many other charges, you cannot risk going forward in your defense case without the help of a skilled and experienced St. Augustine DUI defense lawyer. At Taylor & Waldrop Attorneys, we have significant experience at state, federal, and appellate courts and we know how to utilize an aggressive defense strategy to protect your rights and freedoms.

Don't jeopardize your future! Contact our St. Augustine underage DUI lawyers at (904) 204-6499 today.

Underage DUI Penalties

Because underage drivers are at highest risk of being involved in serious accidents, driver inexperience with alcohol consumption could be a dangerous and deadly combination. For this reason, the state of Florida imposes stricter laws and harsher penalties for individuals facing underage DUI charges.

Even first time offenders (particularly underage DUI offenders who test for a BAC over 0.08%) could be faced with serious consequences, including:

  • Automatic license suspension of 6 months
  • Fines between $500-1,000 if the underage driver has a BAC of 0.08% or more at the time of testing
  • Driver's license revocation for 180 days, up to one year with a BAC of 0.08% or more
  • Vehicle impoundment with a BAC of 0.08% or more
  • Incarceration up to six months and/or up to 50 hours of community service with a BAC over 0.08%

Any type of criminal conviction can be life-changing. With a criminal conviction on your permanent record, you could be disqualified to apply for loans, grants, or scholarships. In other circumstances, it may become very difficult to find a job or keep an existing job. Don't risk having to live your entire life paying for one mistake—choose to fight your charges with our St. Augustine DUI defense team today.

Local Support and Resources for Underage DUI in St. Augustine

Living in St. Augustine, we understand the unique challenges our community faces, especially when it comes to underage DUI offenses. The local government and law enforcement agencies, such as the St. Johns County Sheriff's Office, are vigilant in enforcing DUI laws to ensure the safety of our roads. This means that young drivers in our area need to be particularly cautious and aware of the severe consequences of underage drinking and driving.

One of the significant pain points for families in St. Augustine is the potential impact of an underage DUI charge on a young person's future. With institutions like Flagler College right here in our city, a criminal record can jeopardize educational opportunities and future career prospects. Additionally, the local job market can be unforgiving to those with a criminal background, making it even more critical to address these charges promptly and effectively.

At Taylor & Waldrop Attorneys, we are deeply familiar with the local landscape and the specific concerns of St. Augustine residents. We know that a single mistake should not define your future. Our team is committed to providing the robust defense needed to navigate the complexities of underage DUI charges. We work diligently to protect your rights and strive for the best possible outcome, including reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or complete dismissal.

We encourage you to use local resources, such as the St. Johns County Clerk of Court, for information on court procedures and the St. Augustine Police Department for community programs to prevent underage drinking. By staying informed and seeking the proper legal support, you can better manage the challenges of an underage DUI charge in St. Augustine.

Don't let an underage DUI charge derail your future. Contact Taylor & Waldrop Attorneys today to discuss your case and explore your legal options. We are here to help you every step of the way.

Experienced Legal Counsel with a Proven Record of Success

At Taylor & Waldrop Attorneys, we have the experience, skill, and knowledge needed to handle all types of criminal defense matters. From misdemeanors to first-time arrests, our defense team has successfully defended the rights and freedoms of individuals throughout St. Augustine. If you or your loved one has been arrested for an underage DUI offense, you must consult our legal team immediately. Upon meeting with you confidentially, we can listen to your story and determine the best course of action to take for your particular circumstances.

We are ready to get to work on your behalf! Contact Taylor & Waldrop Attorneys to schedule your first case consultation. 

Commonly Asked Questions

What should I do if I am arrested for an underage DUI in St. Augustine?

If you are arrested for an underage DUI in St. Augustine, it is crucial to contact a qualified DUI defense attorney immediately. Avoid making any statements to law enforcement without legal representation. Taylor & Waldrop Attorneys can provide the guidance and defense you need. We are ready to listen to your story, evaluate your case, and develop a strategy to fight the charges against you. Prompt legal action can significantly impact the outcome of your case, so act today if you or your child has been charged with underage DUI.

Why is it important to fight an underage DUI charge?

Fighting an underage DUI charge is essential because a conviction can have long-lasting effects on your life. Beyond immediate penalties, like fines, license suspension, and possible incarceration, a criminal record can hinder your future opportunities. It can affect your eligibility for educational loans, scholarships, and employment. By contesting the charges with the help of a skilled attorney, you can work towards minimizing or even dismissing the charges and protecting your future.

What makes Taylor & Waldrop Attorneys the right choice for underage DUI defense in St. Augustine?

We are prepared to aggressively defend your rights using our extensive experience and proven track record in these types of cases. We understand the unique challenges of underage DUI cases and are committed to providing personalized and aggressive defense strategies. Our team is dedicated to protecting your rights and working toward the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us for a confidential consultation to discuss your situation and explore your legal options.

We Come Highly Recommended

  • Brad Waldrop was a huge asset!

    Tami
  • I would absolutely recommend him to anyone for any legal service he offers.

    Anonymous
  • It was like I knew him for years. I left that consultation knowing I was with the right attorney.

    Former Client
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