Memphis Underage DUI Lawyer

Protecting the Rights of Minors in Bartlett & Beyond

Being charged with DUI is a serious matter at any age, but when the person facing the charge is under 21, the stakes are even higher. The state of Tennessee has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving, meaning that any trace of alcohol in a driver’s system can lead to a DUI charge. A conviction can result in the loss of driving privileges, a permanent criminal record, and other harsh penalties.

Our Memphis underage DUI defense lawyers at the Francavilla Law Firm, PC are here to help you fight the charges against you and avoid these and other consequences. Contact us online or call (901) 979-9992 today.

Underage DUI Laws in Tennessee

Underage drivers are subject to a much lower blood alcohol content (BAC) limit than drivers over 21. While the legal limit for adults is .08%, anyone under 21 can be charged with DUI if their BAC is .02% or higher. This means that even a single drink can potentially result in a DUI charge for a minor. If an underage driver is found to have a BAC of .08% or higher, they can be charged with standard DUI, which is a more serious offense.

Additional penalties for underage DUI include:

• Up to 48 hours in jail
• Up to 60 hours of community service
• A mandatory minimum fine of $250
• License suspension for 1 year
• Required participation in an alcohol and drug treatment program
• Required installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle

Underage DUI Expungement in Tennessee

As an underage DUI offender, you may be able to have your record expunged, or erased, so that the conviction does not show up on background checks for employers, colleges, and other organizations. To be eligible for expungement, you must meet certain criteria, such as successfully completing the terms of your sentence and not having any additional convictions on your record.

Other eligibility requirements for expungement include:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Waiting at least 5 years from the date of conviction
• Not having a felony conviction
• Not having more than 2 misdemeanor convictions
• Not having more than 1 DUI conviction

Expungement is not automatic; you must file a petition with the court to have your record cleared. Our Memphis underage DUI defense attorneys can guide you through the process and help you take the necessary steps to seek a fresh start.

Defending Your Underage DUI Case

Just because you were charged with underage DUI does not mean you are automatically guilty. There are many possible defenses that can be used to challenge the evidence against you and cast doubt on the prosecution’s case. Our attorneys will conduct a thorough investigation to identify any weaknesses or mistakes that can be used to your advantage.

Depending on the circumstances, we may be able to argue that:

• The traffic stop was illegal
• The breathalyzer test was inaccurate
• The field sobriety tests were improperly administered
• The arresting officer did not have probable cause

If you are facing charges for underage DUI, you need a strong defense. Do not hesitate to contact our firm for a free and confidential consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.

Call (901) 979-9992 or contact us online today to get started with your consultation.