Have you been arrested on under 21 DUI charges in Upper Darby? If so, an Upper Darby under 21 DUI lawyer at McKenzie Law Firm, P.C. can challenge the state’s allegations and defend your rights.
Our firm was founded by a former prosecutor, and we have experience fighting and winning DUI cases of all kinds. Before you rush into a plea agreement or accept guilt, entrust our team can help you get an acquittal or a case dismissal for you.
The Definition of Under 21 DUI
Driving a vehicle in Upper Darby with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or higher can subject anyone to arrest and charges. With that said, the fact that Pennsylvania’s legal drinking age is 21 means you are held to a much stricter standard for DUI if you are under 21.
Pennsylvania enforces a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to anyone under 21 drinking and driving, per the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PDOT). Even if you don’t “feel” intoxicated or successfully perform field sobriety tests, you can still be arrested and charged.
For a free legal consultation with an under 21 dui lawyer serving Upper Darby, call (610) 680-7842
Consequences of Under 21 DUI Convictions
In keeping with Pennsylvania’s zero-tolerance policy on Under 21 DUI, the state imposes harsh penalties for a conviction, which include:
- Jail time from 48 hours to six months
- Fines from $500 to $5000
- Driver’s license suspension for between 12 and 18 months
Jail Time Is Not the Only Consequence of Receiving an Under 21 DUI Conviction
Starting out as a young adult with a conviction of any kind will make your life more difficult than it should be in several significant ways. For example, you may have a hard time securing a profession that requires you to drive, including obtaining a commercial driver’s license (CDL) or even driving part-time for a food delivery company.
You will also have to report the conviction on any applications for professional licenses and certifications (e.g., real estate, contractor, auto sales) you may seek. The conviction alone may be grounds for disqualification or denial of your application. In addition, it’s almost a guarantee that an under 21 DUI conviction will lead to you paying significantly elevated insurance rates.
The under 21 DUI lawyers from our firm will use all their experience and legal ability to help you avoid these kinds of life-altering consequences. We will do everything we can to keep one night from ruining your future.
Upper Darby Under 21 DUI Lawyer Near Me (610) 680-7842
How Our Attorneys Fight Under 21 DUI Charges in Upper Darby
No matter how strong the state says its case against you is, there are potential defenses that could lead to an acquittal, case dismissal, or a reduction in charges. Some examples of how our lawyers fight under 21 DUI cases include:
- Contesting the forensic evidence: Breathalyzer tests are not always conclusive evidence of a crime. The machines used to conduct these tests must be properly calibrated and regularly maintained. We may examine the results of your test and the machine itself to determine if there were any errors.
- Challenging probable cause: Police officers must have probable cause to pull you over (e.g., swerving or speeding). We’ll examine the police report in detail to determine whether the police had probable cause to pull you over in the first place. If we can prove they lacked probable cause to do so, we may be able to get the rest of the evidence they discovered dismissed.
- Finding witnesses: In some cases, there may be witnesses who can testify that you were not drinking leading up to your arrest. We can locate them, prepare them for trial, and call them to testify on your behalf.
Click to contact our Upper Darby DUI Lawyers today
You May Be Eligible for Accelerated Rehabilitative Discharge
While an under 21 DUI is a very serious charge, Pennsylvania believes that everyone deserves a second chance. As a first-time offender, you may be eligible for one through Pennsylvania’s Accelerated Rehabilitative Discharge (ARD) Program. If you follow the terms of the program, you may qualify for the following:
- Having your record expunged
- Having your case dismissed
However, admission into this program is not guaranteed. The prosecutor in your case needs to approve your application for ARD. You must also have an attorney so they can protect your rights. You can rely on our team to make a compelling case for why you should be allowed to benefit from ARD. This is where having a former prosecutor as a lawyer in your under 21 DUI case can be a great advantage.
We understand the criteria prosecutors look for when agreeing to resolve cases through ARD. Not only will we fight for you to qualify for this program, but we will also look at any options that will allow you to continue living your life, remaining free and putting this case behind you.
Our Under 21 DUI Lawyers Are There for You
Being the subject of any criminal prosecution is one of the most intimidating experiences anyone can endure. Sometimes, you need someone to talk you through what’s happening with your case, and we’re here to do that.
We pride ourselves on being there for our clients when they need us. If you bring us on to defend your case, you will have access to your attorney via text, email, phone call, or even social media.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Start Building Your Upper Darby Under 21 DUI Case With Our Team Today
Getting arrested for an under 21 DUI is one of the most challenging experiences you can face as a young adult. However, you have a right to fight for yourself, and we’re here to assert that right on your behalf.
If you’ve been arrested for under 21 DUI in Upper Darby, and you aren’t sure what to do, contact us. Our firm offers confidential consultations, and we’re happy to talk to you about how we might build your case. The sooner you call us, the sooner we can begin working on a plan to get you out of this difficult situation.
Call or text (610) 680-7842 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
