If you have been arrested for underage DUI, the most important thing on your list of priorities is to speak with a DUI attorney in Miami (you can request a copy of my DUI consumer guide filled with information on DUI, including what to consider when choosing a DUI Lawyer, by clicking below).

Anyone charged with DUI faces very frightening and serious consequences. If you are under the age of 21 the consequences have the potential to become even more serious as it is illegal for someone under the age of 21 to purchase or consume alcohol, let alone get behind the wheel of a vehicle while under the influence. Florida has a zero tolerance policy for persons under 21 who are believed to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while they are operating a vehicle.

A driver under the age of 21 suspected of being DUI (under the influence of drugs or alcohol) must submit to breath and/or blood tests. As a result of Florida’s zero tolerance policy for underage drivers, the maximum blood alcohol content for a person under 21 is .02%. The mere fact that someone accused of DUI is under 21 will not result in sympathy, nor will the State Attorney’s Office cut you any slack. In fact, under Florida law, juveniles arrested for DUI are prosecuted in adult court.

You can learn more by requesting a free instant download of attorney Daniel Izquierdo's book, “A Six Pack of Questions that can cause a Hangover after a DUI Arrest” to learn more about the seriousness of a DUI charge and what to look for when choosing the best lawyer for your defense. 

Penalties for Underage DUI

If you are under 21 and found guilty of underage DUI, your penalties will include:

  • Mandatory six (6) month license suspension
  • Jail time depending on breath/blood alcohol level (BAC) and other factors
  • Mandatory alcohol education
  • Community service
  • Fines up to $2,000
  • Increased insurance premiums for up to five (5) years

Just because Florida has a strict zero tolerance police for underage DUI does not mean that your case does not have defenses. Errors made by the police in investigating your case, wrongly administered breath or blood tests, rights violations, faulty breath machines or testing units among other factors may be defenses available to you when you are arrested for underage DUI.

If you are under 21 and charged with DUI it is crucial to retain a Miami DUI attorney. As an underage driver charged with DUI you have your entire life ahead of you and a DUI attorney can help you pursue the best outcome possible and ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way. I understand how important it is to avoid a criminal conviction on your record as you are attempting to finish school, apply for scholarships, pursue advanced degrees or professional licenses. In addition, minors convicted of DUI may face difficulty keeping their job, applying for a new job or even moving up in the future.

How Can I Help?

I pride myself in focusing my practice on the defense of drunk driving cases that affect good people. Each month, I only accept a limited number of DUI cases in South Florida to ensure that you get the Personalized, Aggressive and Compassionate representation you deserve. I do not believe in accepting every DUI case that walks through the door in order to have a volume practice and simply drive revenue.

Immediately after meeting with a prospective client, I begin exploring defenses and analyzing the client’s case from every possible angle. Together we will formulate a plan based on each client’s goals, needs and potential collateral consequences to ensure that they receive personalized, aggressive and compassionate representation en route to defending their underage DUI.

When someone charged with DUI retains me, I am humbled by the opportunity, embrace the challenge and begin preparing the case for trial. I thoroughly analyze every piece of evidence the State intends to use against you. I analyze the stop made by police to see if it is a legal one. I will analyze all police reports to establish whether field sobriety exercises were administered properly and according to standards. I pour through breathalyzer maintenance records to see whether the Intoxilyzer 8000 was maintained properly and whether breath tests were properly administered. Make sure, if your case involves drugs, whether the DRE officer followed his training. I will do whatever is necessary to help you successfully defend your drunk driving charges whether that means filing motions, negotiating with the State Attorney’s Office or trying the case before a judge or jury.

DUI cases have many layers and can be quite complicated. While many criminal defense lawyers will accept DUI cases, it is best to trust your case to a Miami DUI lawyer that focuses their practice in the defense of DUI cases.  Trust that I will do everything I can to guide you to the best possible outcome for your case. 

A DUI charge can affect everything you try to do in life moving forward.  It is extremely important to enlist the services of an experienced DUI defense attorney that knows the players, the process and focuses primarily on DUI defense in Miami. 

Do You Need A Miami DUI Defense Laywer?

If you find yourself charged with DUI in Miami you need to speak with an experienced DUI attorney as soon as possible. Please contact me online or call my Coral Gables office directly at 305.707.7345. You should also download my free book "A Six Pack Of Questions That Can Cause A Hangover After A DUI Arrest". This free download provides valuable information and answers to questions about DUI charges that can give you the best chance at winning your case.

 

Daniel Izquierdo
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Coral Gables defense lawyer helping clients accused of Federal Crimes, DUI, Domestic Violence & Sex Crimes.