Can a Minor Be Charged with a DUI in Florida?

Yes, minors in Florida can be charged with DUI if they are found to be operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, controlled substances, or chemical substances. Unlike with adults who would only face an administrative license suspension if the adult provided a breath sample above .08 OR if he or she refused a breath, urine or blood test, the threshold for an administrative license suspension for a minor is much lower. In that regard, if a minor is stopped by law enforcement and has a breath alcohol level of only .02 or higher, the minor can suffer an administrative license suspension.

Consequences of a DUI Charge For Minors

The legal penalties for a minor charged with DUI in Florida can be severe without the expertise of highly skilled DUI defense lawyers in Clearwater with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan. Depending on the specifics of their situation, this could potentially include fines, license suspension, community service, mandatory substance abuse education or treatment programs, and even juvenile detention in certain cases. 

Additionally, a DUI conviction stays on a minor’s record and can affect their opportunities in the future.

Impact on College Applications

College admissions officers often consider an applicant’s character and conduct beyond academic achievements. A DUI conviction can raise red flags and lead to a negative assessment of a minor’s character, potentially jeopardizing their chances of acceptance into their desired colleges or universities. Many educational institutions now also require applicants to disclose any criminal history, and a DUI conviction may significantly diminish their chances of acceptance.

Difficulty Securing Rental Properties and Homes

Many landlords conduct background checks on prospective tenants and buyers to assess their reliability and trustworthiness. A DUI conviction, even as a minor, may appear on these background checks and signal to landlords a potential risk. 

Inhibited Employment Opportunities

Employers commonly perform background checks as part of the hiring process to ensure they are making informed decisions about who they are choosing to hire. A DUI conviction can raise concerns about your child’s judgment, responsibility, and reliability, particularly in positions that involve driving or handling sensitive tasks. As a result, minors with DUI convictions may find it difficult to secure certain job opportunities and advance in their careers.

Protect Your Child From the Severe Consequences of a DUI

Parents play a critical role in educating their children about the serious consequences of drinking and driving. However, even with the best guidance, children can make mistakes. If your child is being charged with a DUI, help protect them with the help of the top DUI attorneys in Clearwater with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan.

In some cases, our highly-rated DUI defense lawyers can negotiate with the prosecutor to secure a reduction in the charge from DUI to Reckless Driving. In other cases, our minor clients may qualify for a diversion program which would allow the young adult to avoid a formal conviction for DUI.

Request a free consultation or give us a call at (727) 291-9717 to speak with one of our expert DUI defense lawyers in Clearwater today.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.

Create a Strategy Before the Festivities

Whether you’re attending a parade or gathering with friends, consider these strategies to avoid drinking and driving:

• Designate a sober driver well in advance of your activities.
• Opt for rideshare services like Uber or Lyft for a safe, dependable ride home.
• Plan to spend the night at a trusted friend or family member’s home or a nearby hotel.

Commonly Patrolled Areas in Pinellas County

If you decide to drive home after St. Patrick’s Day festivities, be aware of law enforcement patrolled areas along higher-traffic routes leading to and from popular event destinations in Pinellas County, as well as the following areas: 

• Memorial Causeway leaving Clearwater Beach.
• 4th Street in St. Petersburg, particularly near downtown.
• Courtney Campbell Causeway westbound from Tampa.
• Gulf Boulevard from St. Pete Beach to Indian Shores.
• Largo, specifically around Ulmerton Road and US Highway 19 North.

Steps to Take If You Get Stopped for a DUI

Should you find yourself pulled over for a DUI stop after your St. Patrick’s Day festivities, you should understand your rights and the steps that you can take to avoid the consequences of a DUI conviction:

• Familiarize yourself with your rights during a DUI stop before heading out.
• Remain calm and cooperate with the law enforcement officers.
• Use your right to remain silent until you have legal representation from a top DUI attorney in Clearwater with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan.
• Know that you have the option to decline field sobriety tests.

If you get pulled over for a DUI stop, quickly seek out top-notch legal support and representation from the top DUI attorneys in Clearwater with Russo, Pelletier & Sullivan.

Avoid a DUI This St. Patrick’s Day

This St. Patrick’s Day, enjoy your festivities responsibly, be mindful of your rights, and make informed choices to avoid a DUI after your celebrations.

Request a complimentary case consultation or give us a call at (727) 291-9717 to speak with one of the top DWI attorneys in Clearwater.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general educational information only. This information does not constitute legal advice, is not intended to constitute legal advice, nor should it be relied upon as legal advice for your specific factual pattern or situation.