Wilmington Island Underage DUI Attorney

An Overview of Underage DUI Laws in Georgia

Underage drivers (under 21) must comply with all of the standard DUI laws in Georgia. Beyond that, our state enforces a zero-tolerance alcohol standard for drivers under age 21. Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-391(k), an underage driver commits DUI if testing shows a blood alcohol concentration of 0.02 percent or higher. The standard applies regardless of observable impairment and allows arrest based solely on chemical test results. In other words, the legal limit for underage drivers in Wilmington Island is just 0.02 percent instead of 0.08 percent.

In Georgia, an underage DUI arrest triggers both criminal and administrative consequences. The criminal case proceeds in state or municipal court, while the administrative license suspension arises separately through the Department of Driver Services. A BAC of 0.02 percent or higher results in an automatic license suspension. If the BAC is higher than 0.08, the license suspension will likely be even longer. Notably, DUI penalties extend beyond license consequences. Courts may impose fines, probation, mandatory alcohol education programs, and community service.

Key Point: If an underage driver has a BAC of 0.08 or higher, he or she will likely face a standard criminal DUI charge instead of only an underage DUI offense. Though these charges are not mutually exclusive in Georgia. A DUI conviction can carry jail time, underage or not. 

How Our DUI Defense Attorney Can Help

Facing an underage DUI charge in Wilmington Island or elsewhere in Chatham County? It is crucial that you have an experienced defense lawyer on your side. Jarrett Maillet puts clients first. We handle all types of intoxicated driving cases in Georgia, including underage DUIs. It is our mission to help clients find the best path forward for their specific situation. When you reach out to us, you will speak directly to a Wilmington Island underage DUI defense lawyer who can: 

• Listen to your story and answer questions about your case
• Investigate the underage DUI charge in Wilmington Island, gathering relevant evidence
• Represent you before police officers and prosecutors
• Develop a personalized strategy focused on protecting your rights and your future

Underage DUI in Wilmington Island: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does “zero tolerance” mean for underage drivers in Wilmington Island?

Georgia does not allow drivers under 21 to have measurable alcohol in their system. Though, a margin for error. A blood alcohol concentration of 0.02 percent or higher can result in a DUI arrest. An underage driver can be arrested and charged even if he or she does not feel impaired.

Will I lose my driver’s license for an underage DUI?

Yes. If you are convicted of this charge, a license suspension is guaranteed. The length of the suspension depends on the BAC level and whether you have prior offenses. To be clear, the underage DUI license suspension process is separate from any criminal DUI case.

How does an underage DUI affect administrative license suspension?

The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) may impose an administrative suspension based solely on test results. Remember, the process proceeds independently from the criminal prosecution. Your Wilmington Island, GA, underage DUI defense attorney can help you take action to protect your rights to drive. 

What defenses are commonly raised in Georgia underage DUI cases?

There are many defenses that can be raised in an underage DUI case. Defense strategies often focus on the legality of the traffic stop and arrest. Testing accuracy, calibration records, and implied consent compliance are frequently disputed. Procedural defects can also result in the suppression of evidence or even an outright dismissal.

Contact Our Wilmington Island Underage DUI Defense Lawyer Today

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., our Wilmington Island DUI defense attorney handles the full range of charges, including underage drunk driving cases. Contact us now to arrange your strictly confidential, no obligation initial consultation at 912-713-3426. We defend underage DUI charges in Wilmington Island, Chatham County, and throughout the surrounding area in Georgia.