Underage DUI is an omnipresent problem in South Florida, what with the constant warm weather, plethora of beaches, and easily accessible alcohol. Criminal defense lawyers Miami-Dade County often work with individuals charged with underage DUI because all these reasons add to its prevalence in Florida.
It is against the law for minors to drink because it poses a serious risk to society. Those who drink are more likely to engage in criminal activity and can lead to significant medical costs for themselves, their victims, and society as a whole. Understanding the laws of underage drinking can help you avoid many of the misunderstandings that occur when juveniles receive a DUI charge.
Why Underage Drinking Is a Problem
Some of the more common problems associated with underage intoxication include the following:
- violence;
- traffic crashes;
- high risk sexual activity;
- property crime; and
- injuries.
When these criminal acts accompany a DUI, it can lead to even harsher penalties and consequences. Securing legal representation is important in order to defend your case.
Florida Underage Drinking Law
It is against the law for anyone under the age of 21 years old to consume alcohol. Even if a parent gives a minor permission, it is illegal. In fact, adults could face jail time for allowing underage persons to drink.
If a minor is in possession of alcohol, but isn’t consuming it, it is still against the law, and he or she could be charged. Penalties could include a $500 fine and 60 days in jail.
Minors who misrepresent their age to buy or consume alcohol face the same penalties, along with having their driver’s license suspended. If a minor were to purchase a fake ID in order to purchase alcohol, they could spend up to five years in jail and pay a $5,000 fine.
Seeking Legal Help
With the potential of jail time, fines, and the loss of your driver’s license, it’s important seek the legal help of criminal defense lawyers Miami-Dade county. These lawyers could potentially reduce your penalties by working with the judge.
When you seek legal counsel, your attorney will carefully review your case to see it if can be challenged. In some instances, juveniles have no defense, but many usually have some reason to have their sentence reduced.
For example, if a police officer stops a juvenile without cause, an attorney can argue what the police officer did was against the driver’s rights. Another possible defense is the way the police office conducted the sobriety tests. There is a procedure to this, and any missed or incorrect step could lead to the tests being thrown out of evidence.
You have rights, which an attorney can explain to you. He or she can also make sure that along the way, those rights are kept protected. Your attorney will work hard on your behalf to make sure your case is resolved in the best possible way.
With the possibility of your charges affecting your life significantly, you don’t want to fight these on your own. Even one bad choice made in a moment can alter the course of your life. You may be able to minimize the consequences of your bad choice by securing aggressive legal counsel. Contact Falk & Ross Law Firm at 877-663-5110.