Phoenix DUI Lawyer Blog

Phoenix Underage Drinking Attorney

In Arizona "Zero Tolerance" DUI laws apply to underage drinking and driving. It is called "Underage Driving Under the Influence" an Arizona DUI charge. In this event, you (under age 21) or your child could be charged and convicted of a criminal offense, if found to have consumed any amount of alcohol.

In contrast, one of the criteria for charging an Adult with DUI, is for the adult, age 21 or older, to have a blood-alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or greater. But minors and young adults (up to age 21) can be charged with DUI for having any alcohol in their system (.01 BAC). This is the case even no physical signs of impairment exist. The Arizona DUI charge may stand alone, or it may be combined with other Arizona DUI charges depending on the circumstances of the case.

Arizona Underage DUI Law: ARS 4-244(34): Underage Driving Under the Influence

In Arizona it is illegal: 34. For a person under twenty-one years of age to drive or be in physical control of a motor vehicle while there is any spirituous liquor in the person's body.
In Arizona the penalties for under 21 DUI are just as severe as those for adults with a BAC of .08% or greater, include:

• Up to 2 year license suspension
  
• Jail sentence
  
• Fines and court fees
  
• Community service
  
• Probation
  
• Alcohol education/rehabilitation/counseling
  

Mistakes happen. Give your child a second chance, and a fresh start by calling James Novak, DUI & Criminal Defense Attorney. As a Former Prosecutor, and Arizona underage DUI lawyer I can negotiate on your child's behalf. Depending on the situation and case circumstances, I may be able to obtain a dismissal of the Arizona Underage DUI charges in exchange for treatment and counseling.

I am experienced at protecting the rights of minors in alcohol offenses, and I work to ensure that any punishment has the least possible impact on their lives and future. Consult a Phoenix, Arizona Underage DUI Lawyer, if you or your child are under 21 years of age and have been criminally charged with an Arizona alcohol-related offense, or any DUI or criminal charge. James Novak will provide a free consultation and speak with you personally regarding your case. Call today (480) 413-1499!