Fighting Underage DUI Charges in Allegheny County

An underage DUI charge in Allegheny County is a serious matter that can have long-term consequences for your future. Pennsylvania has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving, meaning even the slightest amount of alcohol in your system can lead to criminal charges if you are under 21. If you or a loved one has been charged with an underage DUI, it’s critical to understand your rights and options for defense.

At Frank Walker Law, we are committed to helping young individuals and their families navigate these challenging situations. Here’s what you need to know about underage DUI charges and how to fight them.

Understanding Underage DUI Laws in Pennsylvania

Under Pennsylvania law, an underage driver (under the age of 21) can be charged with driving under the influence (DUI) if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.02% or higher. This low threshold reflects the state’s strict zero-tolerance policy.

In addition to DUI charges, underage drivers may face related charges, such as:

Underage drinking
Possession of alcohol
Fake ID charges

Penalties for Underage DUI

The penalties for an underage DUI conviction in Pennsylvania can be severe, even for a first offense. Potential consequences include:

License Suspension: A minimum of 12 months for a first offense.
Fines: Ranging from $500 to $5,000, depending on the circumstances.
Jail Time: Up to six months in jail for a first offense.
Alcohol Education or Treatment: Completion of court-ordered programs.
Criminal Record: A conviction can leave you with a permanent criminal record, affecting future educational, employment, and housing opportunities.

Steps to Take If Charged with Underage DUI

If you are charged with underage DUI in Allegheny County, it’s essential to act quickly and strategically. Here’s what to do:

Remain Calm and Cooperative: While being pulled over and charged is stressful, remaining calm and cooperative with law enforcement can prevent additional charges or complications.
Do Not Admit Guilt: Avoid making statements or admissions to law enforcement. You have the right to remain silent and consult with an attorney before speaking.
Contact an Experienced DUI Attorney: Underage DUI charges require immediate legal representation. An attorney can evaluate the evidence, identify potential defenses, and work to minimize the impact of the charges.
Preserve Evidence: If there were witnesses to the stop or circumstances that could challenge the validity of the charges, share this information with your attorney.
Understand Your Options: Depending on the specifics of your case, you may be eligible for alternative programs, such as Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD), which could result in reduced penalties or expungement of your record.

Defenses to Underage DUI Charges

There are several potential defenses to underage DUI charges, including:

Improper Traffic Stop: If law enforcement lacked probable cause to stop your vehicle, the charges may be challenged.
Faulty Breathalyzer or Testing Procedures: Errors in administering BAC tests or faulty equipment can lead to inaccurate results.
Violation of Rights: If your constitutional rights were violated during the stop or arrest, evidence obtained may be suppressed.
Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were under the influence while operating the vehicle.

How Frank Walker Law Can Help

At Frank Walker Law, we understand the unique challenges of underage DUI cases and the importance of protecting your future. Our team will:

Thoroughly review the circumstances of your case.
Challenge evidence that was improperly obtained or unreliable.
Advocate for alternative resolutions, such as ARD or reduced charges.
Fight to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your life.

Take Action Today

An underage DUI charge doesn’t have to define your future. With the right legal representation, you can challenge the charges and work toward a positive outcome. If you or a loved one is facing underage DUI charges in Allegheny County, contact Frank Walker Law today for a confidential consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and build a strong defense to protect your rights and your future.

About Frank Walker Law

Attorney Frank Walker of Frank Walker Law is a National Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyer, and Personal Injury Attorney who has been recognized as a Super Lawyer, a member of the National College for DUI Defense, Best Attorneys in America, Best Law firms of America, America’s Greatest Attorneys, and a Top AVVO Rated attorney, with offices in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and Morgantown West Virginia.

Additionally, you can find Attorney Walker on YouTube, TikTok, the Pittsburgh Attorney Podcast and the West Virginia Attorney Podcast, where he gives legal tips (not advice!) and discusses the pressing legal issues of the day.

If you or someone you love are facing criminal charges or are seriously injured in an accident, contact Attorney Frank Walker immediately at 412-532-6805 (Pittsburgh), 304-413-0179 (Morgantown), 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for aggressive and experienced Criminal Defense or Representation in a Civil Case.