DUI for person Under 21 Albuquerque, NM
If you’re a driver under the age of 21 in Albuquerque, you must understand the legal limits as they pertain to driving under the influence (DUI). Underage drivers can face steep penalties that can cause major issues now and well into the future.
At Angela Arellanes Law, we know the impact a DUI conviction can have on a person’s life. That’s why we provide a robust defense against charges to ensure the best possible outcome. A strong legal defense is most important for underage drivers to ensure their future is not irrevocably altered by criminal charges.
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Do DUI Laws Differ for People Under 21?
Motorists under the age of 21 have a lower legal limit when it comes to blood alcohol concentration (BAC). For drivers aged 21 and older, the legal BAC limit is .08%. Conversely, the legal limit for drivers under the age of 21 is .02%, which is roughly the equivalent of two drinks.
What Kind of Penalties Apply with Underage DUI?
Underage drivers who are 18 or older will face the same DUI penalties as drivers 21 and older. That can mean possible jail time, fines, and loss of license. Additionally, penalties will increase with each subsequent offense.
As for drivers under the age of 18, jail time does not usually apply. However, you can still face fines, loss of driving privileges, and community service. The court can also order time in a juvenile detention center if the circumstances warrant a harsher penalty.
What Should You Do If Charged with an Underage DUI?
The first step is to secure quality legal assistance. An attorney can help you make sense of the charges against you to develop a robust defense. They can also identify any possible rights’ violations, such as issues with field sobriety testing.
A reliable defense is crucial to mitigate the penalties you face. While it’s not always possible to have charges completely dismissed, an experienced lawyer can potentially have them reduced to make certain that the subsequent punishments don’t negatively impact your life.