Montgomery County Underage DUI Lawyer
An early criminal record can have a serious impact on a young person’s life. If you or your child were recently arrested for underage DUI, a conviction can affect driving privileges, college admission, and future job prospects. A Montgomery County underage DUI lawyer could advocate for you and help you navigate the legal process. DUI attorney Seth Okin has proven experience representing minors and young adults facing allegations of driving under the influence.
Understanding Underage DUI Charges in Montgomery County
Montgomery County applies a strict zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. Under Maryland Statute § 16-113, drivers below the age of 21 may not operate or attempt to operate a motor vehicle while having any amount of alcohol in their blood. Violating this policy can result in a suspension of your license or require you to drive with an ignition interlock system.
Driving while impaired or under the influence is prohibited under Maryland Statute § 21-902, with charges depending on the amount of alcohol in your blood. A blood-alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more may lead to DUI charges, while lower amounts may qualify for driving while impaired charges. A DUI conviction can have a maximum penalty of one year in prison and a $1,200 fine, while a driving while impaired conviction carries a maximum sentence of two months in prison and up to a $500 fine. Additional factors may enhance DUI charges, including:
- Being accused of other crimes in conjunction with the DUI
- Transporting other minors while under the influence
- Causing property damage, personal injury, or death to others
Beyond alcohol, an underage driver may also face charges for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of marijuana, prescription drugs, and other controlled substances.
How Can a DUI Lawyer Help You Navigate the Legal Process?
If you are under the age of 18, underage DUI charges are handled in juvenile court. Drivers over 18 are tried as adults and must appear in state district court. An underage DUI lawyer in Montgomery County could represent your interests through the most important issues and decisions of your case, including:
- Your plea of guilty or not guilty
- The admissibility of evidence in court
- Illegal traffic stops by law enforcement
- Other procedural violations that may have occurred during your stop and arrest
- Evaluating the terms of a plea deal
- Advocating for lighter sentencing
If you are found guilty, the circumstances of your case and how you navigate the criminal legal process can significantly affect your sentencing. Depending on the court’s discretion, alternative sentencing options besides jail time may be available. We could help you pursue arrangements such as alcohol abuse and drug diversion programs, community service, or house arrest.
Contact a Montgomery County Underage DUI Attorney
If you are facing underage DUI allegations, seeking legal representation is critical to moving forward. Working with experienced Montgomery County underage DUI lawyer Seth Okin can help protect you or your child’s future. Contact Price Benowitz LLP to schedule a free case evaluation today.