An underage DUI conviction in Chandler, AZ, comes with some major consequences. In Arizona, the legal drinking age is 21, and the state adopts a “zero tolerance” policy for underage drinking and driving. This means that any detectable amount of alcohol in an underage driver’s system can lead to a DUI charge.
With Arizona State University and several other large colleges and universities nearby, it’s no surprise that Chandler underage DUIs are common. And with Arizona seeing more fatal DUI accidents than almost any other state in 2023, Chandler police officers are constantly on the lookout for impaired drivers. While being arrested and charged with a DUI as a minor is undoubtedly incredibly stressful, it’s important to understand that you have options and that you don’t need to plead guilty or accept a plea agreement that will result in you having a criminal record.
At the Law Offices of James E. Novak, our dedicated Chandler underage DUI lawyer has more than 25 years of hands-on experience protecting the futures of minors charged with driving under the influence offenses. We have a firm understanding of the best DUI defenses, when they apply, and how to use them to ensure your case ends in the best result possible.
Arizona, like many other states, has a zero-tolerance law when it comes to minors driving under the influence of alcohol. Typically, a driver isn’t “under the influence” of alcohol unless their blood-alcohol content is over. 08. However, for minors, the limit is just .01. This means that minors who have one drink and then get pulled over may be arrested for a DUI, even if they did not exhibit any signs of dangerous driving.
Underage drivers convicted of DUI face potential jail time, hefty fines, and mandatory attendance in alcohol education or treatment programs. The severity of these DUI penalties can increase with your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level and if you have a prior DUI conviction. Additionally, there can be a suspension or even revocation of your driver’s license, which can significantly impact your independence as well as your ability to work or attend school.
In addition to the legal consequences of a DUI conviction, there are also collateral consequences that can—in many cases—have an even greater impact on your life.
Educational and Career Impact: An underage DUI conviction can have lasting effects on educational opportunities and career prospects. Many colleges and universities take criminal records into account during admissions, and a DUI conviction could lead to lost scholarships or expulsion. Professionally, the conviction might limit job opportunities, especially in fields requiring a clean driving record or a security clearance.
Insurance Consequences: Auto insurance rates for those with a DUI on their record are much higher. Insurance providers view DUI offenders, particularly underage ones, as high-risk drivers. This can result in either substantially higher premiums or the possibility of being dropped from coverage altogether.
Social and Personal Impact: The stigma of a DUI conviction, especially at a young age, can lead to social ostracization and personal shame. It may strain relationships with family and friends and can bring about significant stress and mental health challenges.
Overall, an underage DUI conviction in Arizona is a serious matter with far-reaching implications. Thus, it is essential to work with an experienced Chandler underage DUI attorney who can protect your future.
If you are under 21 and were arrested for driving under the influence, don’t give in to the stress that comes along with these charges. Instead, reach out to our dedicated Chandler criminal defense attorney to see how he can help. Attorney Novak is a veteran DUI defense lawyer who has extensive experience representing minors and adults charged with an under 21 DUI. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation with Attorney Novak today, call 480-413-1499. You can also reach us through our secure online contact form.