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Health & Fitness

Underage Drinking: Consequences Past 21

Underage Drinking: Consequences Past 21

With Fourth of July just around the corner, fun times may include some fun drinks. Drivers who are under the age of 21 will face zero tolerance laws if they are convicted of a DWI. The exact definition of zero tolerance will be based on the state in which you live. For example, the majority of states prosecute underage drivers who have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .02 or higher, but a BAC higher than .00 is enough to get a conviction in 11 states. Because of these strict laws, it is imperative for people who are underage to avoid getting behind the wheel if they have consumed any alcohol at all.

What are the Consequences of an Underage DWI?

Each state sets its own fine structure for DWIs, but there are certain things that will be the same throughout the country. For example, getting convicted of a DWI when you are under the age of 21 will almost always result in a license suspension. In fact, it is possible that you will lose your license until your 21st birthday. Additionally, you will be required to pay for legal fees and fines that will most likely exceed a total of $10,000. This can be extremely difficult for underage drivers because most of them do not have a high paying job. Sadly, this means that their family might have to help them deal with the legal consequences, and this can fracture their relationships.

Employment Issues Caused by an Underage DWI

Most employers require their employees to have a valid driver's license. Unfortunately, this could make it very difficult for someone who was convicted of an underage DWI to get a job. Even if a potential employer does not require you to have a license, you could still be barred from employment because you will have a misdemeanor or a felony that will show up during a background screening.

Will I be Able to go to College?

Perhaps the most unexpected consequence of an underage DWI is that it could prevent you from going to the college of your choice. Each school has its own code of conduct, and the more prestigious universities typically prohibit students from having any type of criminal record. According to relevant information at http://www.powmac.com/dwi-defense-attorney/, the possession of alcohol, even without having consumed it, when under the age of 21 is a crime. If you are charged with a misdemeanor DWI, your college application could be denied. If you are already enrolled in college, you could be kicked out if the school finds out what happened.

How can I Fight a DWI Charge?

Whether you are guilty or not, you will have the opportunity to hire a skilled DWI lawyer to defend you. Keep in mind that there are certain technicalities that can be used to your advantage, including the fact that breathalyzer tests are not always accurate. Therefore, you should take all of the necessary steps to avoid a conviction.

Getting a DWI at any age will have a negative impact on your life, but the consequences will be exacerbated if you are underage. Therefore, you should always avoid driving when you are under the influence. However, if you do get pulled over for a DWI, it is vital to contact an attorney immediately. At http://www.powmac.com/dwi-defense-attorney/ Powers McCartan PLLC, attorneys aggressively defend drivers who have been charged with a DWI, and urge them to consider that every DWI case is unique and all key evidence should be analyzed in light of up-to-date laws.


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