Underage DWI major concern for law enforcement during prom season

May 04, 2013 (Press-News.org) Underage DWI major concern for law enforcement during prom season

Article provided by Law Offices of Norman Mattar
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As the school year comes to a close, there are many important events that still remain on the calendar. Spring is prom season, and after prom, graduation. Teens look forward to these milestones, and often will plan large celebrations to commemorate these occasions.

Prior to these events, school staff and law enforcement officers will try to increase awareness of some of the dangers of drinking and driving. They may bring in simulators that demonstrate how difficult it can be to operate a motor vehicle if under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or show pictures of cars involved in drunk driving accidents. Teens also need to be aware of some of the penalties that may arise for an underage DWI.

There are different laws that apply to New York motorists under the age of 21. Adults must register a blood alcohol content of 0.08 before they may face DWI charges, but for minors, this number is much smaller. Anyone under the age of 21 with a BAC 0.02 or above could be charged with an alcohol-related driving infraction.

New York is a zero tolerance state, which means that it has specific laws in place that directly address underage drinking and driving. The zero tolerance laws are civil in nature, which means that the offender will not be facing jail time. The potential penalties include the loss of a driver's license for at least six months. Repeat offenses increase the amount of time of license revocation. Additionally, if the minor refuses to take a chemical test, it will result in an automatic license suspension for one year.

However, it is possible that prosecutors could decide to bring charges under New York's DWI statutes. This could subject the minor to the same penalties that adult offenders face.

If you are a minor charged with driving while intoxicated, you need to understand that these are very serious accusations. Not only will you have to deal with the penalties imposed by the courts, but there may be other consequences that will also arise, including limitations on the occupations that may be available to you in the future.

Speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney to learn more about offering a strong defense to the charges you are facing. You have rights, and you need to be sure that you understand the consequences of the decisions that you need to make. Many people arrested for DWI have never been in trouble with the law before, and this can be a confusing time. You need to work with someone who has handled these types of cases in the past, and can explain what is happening in your situation.