Four Corners Underage DUI Lawyer
Understanding Underage DUI Charges in Florida
In Florida, a standard DUI charge applies to drivers of any age who operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher or while impaired by alcohol or drugs. For drivers under the age of 21, Florida enforces a zero-tolerance law, which makes it illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.02% or higher — an amount that can be reached after only one drink.
This means a young driver can be arrested and penalized even if they are not legally “intoxicated” under the standard adult limits. The purpose of this law is to discourage underage drinking and protect public safety, but it can also lead to harsh consequences for otherwise responsible teens and young adults.
An underage DUI arrest may result from:
- A traffic stop with suspected drinking
- A checkpoint or sobriety roadblock
- An accident investigation
- Reports from other drivers or witnesses
Once stopped, officers may request field sobriety tests and a breathalyzer test. Refusing a chemical test can lead to automatic license suspension and other penalties.
Protecting Your Child’s Future After a DUI in Four Corners
When your child faces a DUI charge, it can feel overwhelming, confusing, and urgent. If you are searching for a juvenile DUI attorney in Four Corners, you need answers and support quickly. At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we know this is one of the most important moments in your family’s life, and every decision you make now can shape your child’s future.
We bring more than 40 years of combined experience to every juvenile and underage DUI case. Over the years, our attorneys have guided many parents and guardians through uncertain times, always focusing on solutions. Our belief is simple: every young person deserves a chance to move forward, and every family deserves clear, honest help informed by real experience with the Four Corners legal system.
No one should have to navigate this situation alone. We help families understand their options, make sense of the process, and advocate for what matters most—your child’s future.
Contact The Law Offices of Justin Rickman at (888) 835-5840 today to start protecting your child’s future.
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Florida Underage DUI Laws & Penalties
Florida law treats underage DUI seriously, and the penalties can be severe, even for first-time offenders. Potential consequences may include:
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation
- 6 months minimum suspension for a first offense with a BAC of 0.02% to 0.05%
- 1-year suspension for higher BAC levels or repeat offenses
- Fines that can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars
- Mandatory DUI education courses
- Community service hours
- Vehicle impoundment
- Probation
- Possible jail time for higher BAC levels or repeat offenses
- Permanent criminal record
In some cases, an underage DUI may be charged as a full DUI offense rather than just a zero-tolerance violation, especially if the BAC is 0.08% or higher or if an accident occurred. This can dramatically increase the severity of the penalties and long-term impact on the young person’s life.
A conviction may also affect college admissions, scholarships, professional licenses, housing opportunities, and job prospects. That is why it is so important to have a Four Corners underage DUI lawyer on your side.
How the Process Works After an Underage DUI Arrest
After an underage DUI arrest in Four Corners, several things may happen quickly:
- You may receive a temporary driving permit
- A license suspension process through the DMV may begin
- A formal criminal court case may be opened
- Court dates and deadlines will be scheduled
Having legal counsel early in the process can significantly affect the outcome. Missing a deadline or failing to request a DMV hearing in time could result in automatic penalties that may have been avoidable.
At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, we work swiftly to protect your driving privileges and prepare a strong defense from day one.
Long-Term Consequences of Underage DUI
Many people don’t realize that underage DUI charges can follow a person well into adulthood. A conviction can:
- Appear on background checks
- Affect student loan and scholarship eligibility
- Make car insurance extremely expensive
- Limit career choices
- Impact study-abroad and travel opportunities
Our goal is not just to fight charges in the present, but to protect your future.
Legal Defense to Underage DUI
There are several possible defense strategies for underage DUI charges in Florida. Every case is unique, but common areas where we may challenge the prosecution include:
- Illegal Traffic Stop: Police must have reasonable suspicion to pull a driver over. If the stop was unlawful, any evidence obtained afterward may be inadmissible.
- Faulty Breathalyzer Results: Breath testing devices must be properly calibrated and maintained. Errors in calibration, handling, or administration can lead to inaccurate results.
- Improper Test Procedures: If the testing officer did not follow state protocols, the results may be challenged or thrown out.
- Medical Conditions or External Factors: Certain medical conditions, medications, or even mouth alcohol residue can affect BAC readings.
- Lack of Evidence of Impairment: A low BAC result does not always prove impairment, especially if it falls near the legal threshold.
Call (888) 835-5840 or contact us online today to get started on your child's defense.
Underage DUI FAQs
Can you get a DUI under 21 even if you’re not drunk?
Yes. In Florida, drivers under 21 can face penalties with a BAC of 0.02% — which may occur after just one drink.
Will I go to jail for underage DUI in Florida?
Jail is more likely in cases involving higher BAC levels, repeat offenses, or accidents. However, it is possible even for first-time offenders in certain circumstances.
Can my record be sealed or expunged?
It depends on the final outcome of your case and your prior record. We can evaluate your eligibility for sealing or expungement.
Do I lose my license immediately?
In many cases, a suspension begins shortly after arrest unless a hearing is requested in time. We can assist with this process.
Should I plead guilty to get it over with?
No. You should always speak with our Four Corners underage DUI attorney before making any decisions. There may be strong defenses available in your case.
Our Core Values
We always provide our clients with a realistic assessment of their likelihood of success and are driven by three core values:
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True Commitment
At our firm, unwavering dedication defines everything we do. We stand by our clients with integrity, diligence, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
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Delivery of Effective Results
We are a dedicated team of legal professionals committed to delivering strategic, timely, and results-driven solutions tailored to our clients' needs.
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Bang for Your Buck
We want you to receive maximum value for your legal investment - experienced representation, transparent pricing, and results that matter.
Your Child’s Rights & Your Options After a DUI Charge
Acting fast is often the most important thing you can do for your child. The days after an arrest can be filled with uncertainty, but there are important rights and options available. We recommend you connect with a juvenile DUI lawyer in Four Corners as soon as possible before your child or family members make any statements to police or school officials.
Immediate Steps for Families to Take
There are specific steps you can take right away to protect your child:
- Contact an attorney before discussing details of the case with anyone.
- Remind your child of their right to remain silent until represented.
- Gather all paperwork or citations related to the arrest.
- Keep records of any communication with the police or school officials.
- Ask your attorney about potential diversion programs or court alternatives.
- Discuss immediate driving, school, or extracurricular implications with your lawyer.
Your choice of legal representation is critical when your child is involved in a DUI case. Families in Four Corners trust our team because of our deep local experience, our reputation for integrity, and our commitment to personal attention. We know that every case is unique, so we listen carefully to your concerns and develop practical strategies that reflect your child’s specific situation.
Our team provides open and honest guidance from your very first call through every stage of your case. At The Law Offices of Justin Rickman, you and your child will never be treated like just another file. We have earned the confidence of families throughout Four Corners by standing with them, protecting young people’s futures, and providing steady support every step of the way. Our familiarity with the Lake County Courthouse and local legal procedures helps us build more effective criminal defense strategies for your child.