Cobb County Underage DUI Attorneys

Comprehensive Juvenile DUI Defense in Marietta, Roswell, and Cobb County, GA

When your child is facing an underage DUI charge, it's essential to secure experienced legal representation. At Smith, Schnatmeier, Dettmering & Kilgo, LLP., based in Marietta, GA, we provide robust defense strategies for underage DUI charges.

To speak with our experienced Cobb County underage DUI lawyers, give us a call at (770) 599-5328 or contact us online today. 

Georgia's Underage DUI Laws Explained

In Georgia, the legal drinking age is 21. Consequently, any driver under 21 with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02% or higher can be charged with an Underage DUI. This limit is significantly lower than the 0.08% BAC limit for drivers who are 21 and older.

Underage DUI Penalties in Georgia

First-Time Underage DUI Consequences

• Misdemeanor: A first offense is considered a misdemeanor in Georgia.
• Fines: The fines can range from $300 to $1000.
• Jail Time: A sentence of 24 hours to 12 months in jail may be imposed.
• Community Service: A minimum of 20 hours of community service is required, to be completed within 60 days of sentencing.

Second-Time Underage DUI: Increased Penalties

• Misdemeanor: Like the first offense, a second offense is also a misdemeanor.
• Fines: The fines can range from $600 to $1000.
• Jail Time: A sentence of 72 hours to 12 months in jail may be imposed.
• Community Service: A minimum of 30 days of community service is required.

Third-Time Underage DUI: Severe Repercussions

• High and Aggravated Misdemeanor: A third offense is categorized as a "high and aggravated" misdemeanor in Georgia.
• Fines: The fines can range from $1000 to $5000.
• Jail Time: A sentence of 15 days to 12 months in jail may be imposed.
• Community Service: A minimum of 30 days of community service is required.
• Reduced Flexibility: With a third offense, there is less flexibility regarding good behavior, and individuals receive only four days of credit for every 30 days served in jail.

Subsequent Offenses: Facing Felony Charges

• Felony: Anything beyond three offenses within the same ten-year period is considered a felony in Georgia.
• Significantly Increased Penalties: Felony charges result in substantially higher fines, longer jail sentences, and more extensive community service requirements.

It's essential to recognize that these penalties can have a profound impact on a young person's future, including their educational and career opportunities. That's why parents should consider legal representation from the Law Office of Thomas D. Bumgardner, PLLC in Marietta, GA. Our experienced attorneys have a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes for underage DUI cases. We are dedicated to protecting your child's rights and future, offering personalized guidance and a relentless commitment to securing the best possible outcome for your child.

Understanding the Long-Term Impact of a Juvenile DUI

A juvenile DUI conviction can have far-reaching consequences that extend beyond immediate legal penalties. It's crucial for both parents and young individuals to understand how such a charge can affect future opportunities, including college admissions, job prospects, and driving privileges. At Smith, Schnatmeier, Dettmering & Kilgo, LLP, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge about the potential long-term implications of a DUI charge.

Here are some critical areas where a juvenile DUI can impact your future:

• Educational Opportunities: Many colleges and universities conduct background checks, and a DUI conviction may hinder admission chances or scholarship eligibility.
• Employment Prospects: Employers often review criminal records; a DUI can limit job opportunities, particularly in fields requiring driving or public safety.
• Insurance Rates: A DUI conviction can lead to significantly higher car insurance premiums, impacting your financial stability as you transition into adulthood.
• Driving Privileges: Beyond legal penalties, a DUI can result in a suspended or revoked driver's license, affecting independence and mobility.

Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to providing tailored defense strategies that not only address the immediate legal challenges but also consider the long-term ramifications of a juvenile DUI. Let us help you navigate this complex situation and work towards a resolution that minimizes impact on your future.

To speak with our experienced Cobb County underage DUI lawyers, give us a call at (770) 599-5328 or contact us online today.