Minors and DUI : What's the Difference?

If you are less than 21 years old, it is against the law to consume or possess alcohol. If you are pulled over for driving under the influence and your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is more than .02%, police will assume you are too drunk to drive. It is even more difficult to keep your driver's license when you are an underage driver facing a DUI and an Atlanta DUI lawyer should be consulted right away.

If a driver is between the ages of 18-20 and he or she is accused of DUI or minor in possession of alcohol, the case will likely be heard in one of the Atlanta area state or municipal courts. If the offender is under 18 years of age, the case will likely go to an Atlanta juvenile court.
Juvenile court has many advantages over state or municipal court. It often comes with lower fines and court costs.

The most critical advantage is the confidentiality of proceedings. For offenses like minor in possession of alcohol, marijuana possession, possession of marijuana related objects, public drink, criminal trespass, disorderly conduct, and theft crimes, rehabilitative programs, as opposed to punishments, can often be negotiated with the juvenile court prosecuting attorneys.

While many of the rules of Atlanta's juvenile courts are the same as the state and city courts, they are some special exceptions that can help the offender protect their record. Attorneys at the Law Offices of Richard Lawson have experience working with underage offenders and getting them great results. If you or a loved one are facing charges, call Mr. Lawson today for a free case evaluation.