Orlando Defense Attorney Represents Underage DUI Suspects

Florida lawyer helps youthful drivers facing the state’s zero tolerance law

In Florida, the legal drinking age is 21, so drivers under that age face severe consequences if caught driving under the influence (DUI). Florida has a "zero tolerance" policy that imposes strict penalties on underage drivers with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.02 percent or higher, whereas the maximum level for adults is 0.08 percent. Drivers in this age group are often at a higher risk of accidents due to limited experience, physical and emotional immaturity and a tendency towards distraction. The Law Offices of Tad A. Yates, P.A. in Orlando has extensive experience defending teen drivers against DUI charges.

Penalties for a first underage DUI offense

The penalties for a first offense of underage DUI in Florida are severe, designed to discourage repeat behavior. Underage drivers with a BAC of 0.02 percent to 0.08 percent face a mandatory six-month driver’s license suspension. In addition, the court may impose fines, mandatory DUI education programs, community service and potential vehicle impoundment.

If the BAC exceeds 0.08 percent, the underage driver can face criminal charges, including the possibility of jail time. Moreover, the court can mandate a longer license suspension, mandatory alcohol treatment and the installation of an ignition interlock device in their vehicle. Drivers who escape conviction might still experience long-term effects due to administrative penalties.

Enhanced penalties for repeat offenses

The penalties for underage DUI offenses increase significantly if the individual has previous DUI convictions. After a second DUI offense, drivers may face extended license suspensions, higher fines and mandatory ignition interlock installation. Additionally, the court may require more extensive alcohol education and rehabilitation programs. A third offense may lead to felony charges, potentially including prison time and permanent loss of driving privileges.

Impact on education, employment, and insurance

An underage DUI conviction in Florida can have lasting effects. Many educational institutions require students to disclose criminal convictions, which could impact eligibility for scholarships or even acceptance into certain programs.

Many employers conduct background checks during hiring and so a DUI conviction could jeopardize job prospects, especially if the job requires driving. Even if the individual does not drive as part of their job, a DUI conviction can raise concerns about responsibility and judgment.

Insurance rate increases are another major consequence. Insurance companies can raise premiums and even refuse to cover the individual altogether.

Defenses and legal options for underage DUI charges

Several defenses may be available under Florida criminal law. A skilled Orlando underage DUI lawyer might challenge the traffic stop or argue that the arresting police officer did not have probable cause to administer a breathalyzer test. Additionally, a DUI lawyer might spot errors in the administration of the breathalyzer or blood test that can impugn the accuracy of test results.

Other possible defenses include challenging the officer's observation of impaired driving or questioning the legality of any searches and seizures made. Finally, it might be possible to negotiate a plea deal or enter into a diversion program to reduce the severity of the penalties.

Contact a proven Orlando attorney for an underage DUI consultation

If you face underage DUI charges in Central Florida, the Law Offices of Tad A. Yates, P.A. in Orlando is ready to help. Call us at 407-608-7777 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

attorney

Mr. Yates is a past-President of the Orange County Bar Association and the Legal Aid Society of the Orange County Bar Association. He previously served as Chair of the Judicial Nominating Commission for the 9th Judicial Circuit. 

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Testimonials

  • When I met Tad Yates, I was frantic, scared and misinformed about the legalities of my case. He quickly reassured me that everything was going to be alright and started at once preparing my defense. Every time I needed to speak with him, he was there to give advice and inform me the status of my case. As a result of his hard work, he managed to get my case dismissed and this blemish off my record. If you’re thinking of hiring or consulting with Mr. Yates, your in great hands.

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  • Tad is an excellent attorney. Due to a momentary lapse in judgement, I was put in a bad position and could not be more grateful that I hired Tad. From the moment I met Tad, I knew that I was in great hands! Tad explained to me all possible outcomes of the case and really helped put my mind at ease. In the end, I wound up with a very positive outcome and I owe it all to him. Tad was always available when I needed to speak with him and I couldn’t be happier that I hired him. Without the help and guidance of Tad, I’m not sure where I would be today. Tad is not only an amazing attorney, but an all-around great person!

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  • I do not have enough words to describe how amazing the experience with this attorney was. He works very hard to obtain the best results for his clients. I could not have asked for better services. I had exceptional fast results, I highly recommend this attorney. Thank you again, Tad Yates.

  • After consulting with several different highly recommended lawyers, I decided to hire Tad. It was a decision that would truly effect my life in a very profound way. Tad never promised results, he did however layout his experience and give me his word he would put all his effort into my case. I felt that was the honesty I deserved. He was sincere, honest, and reliable. Every time we attended court he seemed to hold a very good relationship with all the court's people. My case with Tad lasted about 9 months. There were many times I wanted to break down, not knowing what the results would ultimately be; however Tad always personalized my case and would constantly provide me with assurance of his efforts. He was always extremely accessible. This gave me a lot of peace. The results of my case ended up being extremely satisfying. I was looking at losing everything, for good. I now have my peace, my freedom, and I am currently very successful. Even after my case, Tad kept tabs with me and ensured I was doing as I should. There is a handful of people God put in my life of whom helped me get to the next level, there is no denying Tad is one of them.

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  • Tad came highly recommended. Set up a consultation and after meeting him, hired him immediately. Tad is extremely knowledgeable, efficient and truly cares. He was always available to speak and support during a very difficult situation. Although he has many clients, he always made us feel important and took the time necessary to ensure our questions were answered and that we were comfortable with strategy and next steps. He ultimately achieved the desired result and we are forever grateful.

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  • When I met Tad Yates, I was frantic, scared and misinformed about the legalities of my case. He quickly reassured me that everything was going to be alright and started at once preparing my defense. Every time I needed to speak with him, he was there to give advice and inform me the status of my case. As a result of his hard work, he managed to get my case dismissed and this blemish off my record. If you’re thinking of hiring or consulting with Mr. Yates, your in great hands.- A.

    I was referred to Tad by a friend of the family. They told me what he did for them and assured me that he would do the same for me. He exceeded my expectations from start to finish. He used his knowledge of the law, professionalism and relationship skills to have my case completely dropped. No plea deals what so ever. He never once doubted me however he did explain exactly what we had to overcome. If you find yourself in a situation that could impact you for the rest of your life, whether you did anything wrong or not I would encourage you to give him a call.

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Ratings & Reviews

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    5.0/5.0

    Mr. Yates has done an amazing job on my case. I could not be happier. I would highly recommend.

    — Erol Ozturk (erock)

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    5.0/5.0

    From the moment she introduced herself, her warmth and genuine pleasantness were evident.This morning without question, I encountered a highly experience and polite individual at this office, by the name of Kathy. I found Kathy patience and...
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    — B. B.

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    5.0/5.0

    I live in Maryland and my son lives just outside Orlando Florida. He has had several run ins with the local police department who now seem to be watching him and targeting him. Tad and his staff, especially Cathy, have come to the rescue on...
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    — Client

  • google
    5.0/5.0

    A few years ago I was referred to Tad Yates and I just want to start by saying I could not be more grateful. To me Tad has been a complete lifesaver. He over exceeds greatness. He is very communicative, extremely reliable, knowledgeable, I ...
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    — Joel Sierra

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    5.0/5.0

    Very nice people

    — xiuying qiu