Louisiana Underage DWI Lawyer

What Are the Underage Drinking Laws in Louisiana?

No one under 21 is permitted to drink alcohol anywhere in the United States; however, Louisiana state law allows minors to drink in a residence where no alcohol is sold with the consent of their parents or guardians. No matter who a minor is with, they’re not to be sold alcohol at bars or restaurants. Likewise, at no point does the law provide that an intoxicated minor can get behind the wheel and drive. 

A minor who is arrested for driving under the influence can face a series of hardships. The penalties for an Under 21 DWI, if convicted, can limit the minor’s future.

Consequences for an Under 21 DWI

All it takes is a BAC of 0.02% or above for a minor to get arrested. It’s important to note that any time a minor is found behind the wheel with a BAC of 0.08% or more, they face regular DWI charges despite their age. A person who is convicted of underage drinking and driving for the first time can face a financial penalty of $100-$250. They will also likely be required to attend a court-approved substance abuse and driver education program and may face jail time.

If a person is convicted of an underage DWI for the second time, the penalties they face are more severe, including :

• Fines of $150-$500
• Probation
• A court-ordered treatment program

Any time there’s an accident involving injuries or death associated with a DWI, the penalties are also more severe. If your child was involved or said to have caused a serious accident because of being imparted behind the wheel, they could face the possibility of years in prison.

The best way to reduce the penalties of an underage person facing a DWI is to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney. If the defendant has a clean history or there are other circumstances surrounding the case, the attorney will likely be able to win a reduced sentence or settle the case before it goes to court.

What Are the Penalties For Underage DWI Beyond the Bars?

It’s important for underage individuals to consider the penalties they face outside of jail time, probation and fines. In Louisiana, any underage DWI charges will go on your driving record. This means it may be found by a future employer or insurance company, making it difficult for you to find meaningful employment and affordable car insurance. It might also cause your scholarships to end and can bar you from participating in sporting events. If you’re a college-bound senior in high school, a DWI can deny you entrance into the school of your choice.

Because DWI charges have such a major and long-term impact on a young person’s life, it’s important to find the best defense lawyer for your case. In Louisiana, the John D. & Eric G. Johnson Law Firm understands what it takes to create a viable defense strategy and wants to help you earn a second chance at a bright future.