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 The Law Office of Timothy 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 The Law Office of Timothy 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) 855-3847 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.
