Teenagers often face immense pressure to fit in with their peers, sometimes leading them to make risky decisions without fully understanding the consequences. This pressure can drive minors to engage in behaviors that can have serious legal repercussions, such as driving while intoxicated (DWI).
If your child is facing underage DWI charges, it’s natural to be concerned about the long-term effects this could have on their future. An underage DWI charge is not just a minor offense. It carries substantial legal, educational, and social consequences that could follow your child for years. However, with the proper legal support from John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm, you can help mitigate these effects and ensure your child’s future remains bright.
Louisiana’s Strict Zero Tolerance for Underage Drinking and Driving
Louisiana enforces a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. That means that even a tiny amount of alcohol in a minor’s system can result in a DWI charge. The legal BAC limit for adults is 0.08%, but for those under 21, the limit is only 0.02%. This strict threshold reflects the state’s commitment to preventing underage drinking and protecting public safety.
For example, an 18-year-old weighing 110 pounds could reach a BAC of 0.02% after just one glass of wine. If pulled over, this minor could be charged with DWI, even if they don’t feel impaired. This low threshold means that minors need to be extremely cautious since even minimal alcohol consumption can result in significant legal consequences.
Consequences of a First-Time Underage DWI in Louisiana
Any minor who’s convicted of a DWI in Louisiana faces various consequences to discourage future offenses. These penalties often differ from those imposed on adults, but they are still severe. A first-time offender may face fines, mandatory participation in a substance abuse program, and a 180-day suspension of their driver’s license.
In cases where the minor’s BAC is higher than 0.08%, the penalties can be more severe, including:
- More significant fines
- Extended license suspension periods
- Possible jail time or community service
Additionally, if there were other aggravating factors, such as having other minors in the vehicle or violating other traffic laws, the penalties could be even harsher.
Long-Term Impact of Underage DWI Charges Beyond Legal Penalties
The repercussions of an underage DWI charge extend far beyond the immediate legal penalties. A DWI conviction will appear on the minor’s driving record, which future employers, colleges, and insurance companies could access. That can make it difficult for the individual to:
- Find a job
- Obtain affordable car insurance
- Gain admission to their preferred college
A DWI conviction may also result in losing scholarships or being barred from participating in extracurricular activities, significantly affecting the minor’s academic and social development. The lasting consequences of a DWI conviction can impede a minor’s chances of reaching their goals and realizing their aspirations.
Steps to Take After an Underage DWI Charge
As a parent whose child has been charged with an underage DWI, it’s crucial that you act quickly to protect their future. The first step is to contact a criminal defense attorney with experience handling DWI cases involving minors. A lawyer can examine the specifics of the case, uncover possible defenses, and strive to lessen the effect of the charges on your child’s life.
An experienced attorney will examine several factors that could influence the outcome of the case, such as whether the police had a valid reason to stop the vehicle, whether proper procedures were followed, and the accuracy of the BAC test results. With the right legal strategy, reducing the charges or even having the case dismissed may be possible.
Speak to a Louisiana Underage DWI Lawyer Today
If your child is facing underage DWI charges in Louisiana, don’t wait to seek legal assistance. The John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm team has decades of experience defending minors against DWI charges and can provide the support your family needs during this challenging time.
Safeguard your child’s future by partnering with a committed Louisiana DWI attorney who is well-versed in the legal system’s intricacies and will vigorously defend your child’s rights. For a free consultation, call our team today at (318) 377-1555 or complete our contact form.