- Marquette321 N Front St
Marquette, MI 49855 - Munising202 Elm Ave, Ste 5
Munising, MI 49862
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense and is incredibly dangerous not only for the driver but for their passengers and those in the vehicles around them. Michigan drivers can be charged with various DUI (often referred to as Operating While Intoxicated) charges depending on the details of their situation. If a driver under the age of 21 is pulled over for a DUI, it can result in a slew of consequences and legal penalties that differ from standard adult penalties imposed on drivers over 21. If you were arrested for an underage DUI, it is important that you are adequately represented during your case. Work with a Marquette DUI lawyer for more information and skilled representation.
The legal drinking age in Michigan, as it is with every other U.S. state, is 21, meaning that anyone 20 years old or younger is prohibited from consuming alcoholic beverages. Michigan enforces a Zero-Tolerance law regarding underage DUIs.
Under MCL 257.625, “Any person who is less than 21 years of age, whether licensed or not, shall not operate a vehicle on a highway or other place open to the general public or generally accessible to motor vehicles, including an area designated for the parking of vehicles, within this state if the person has any bodily alcohol content.”
The law goes on to define “any bodily alcohol content” as a BAC (blood alcohol concentration) of 0.02 to 0.08% or any presence of alcohol within the body resulting from the consumption of alcoholic beverages unless the consumption was part of a recognized religious ceremony.
Even though 0.08 is the legal limit for drivers, because individuals under the age of 21 are not legally permitted to consume alcohol, any notable amount within the body is considered illegal under the zero-tolerance policy.
If you were arrested for a DUI while under the age of 21, you could incur a variety of penalties and legal repercussions. Understanding the potential consequences is crucial in ensuring your legal rights are protected and that you explore all of your options.
In addition to the criminal penalties imposed by the court, you’ll find that a DUI offense will also trigger administrative penalties that can impact a driver’s ability to operate a motor vehicle lawfully. These sanctions are imposed by Michigan’s licensing system, so a suspension may occur before a criminal case is resolved.
Subsequent DUI offenses in the Upper Peninsula and across the state of Michigan can result in additional fines, community supervision, and the potential for incarceration.
Michigan law considered some offenders different based on their age and other factors. As such, some offenders under age 17 may have their case heard through the juvenile court.
It’s important to understand that the impacts of an underage DUI in Michigan will extend well beyond potential time spent in jail and hefty fines. This offense can have a prolonged and serious impact on those convicted.
In addition to the criminal penalties that you can face, you’ll find that Michigan also imposes administrative consequences that can impact your ability to operate a vehicle. These penalties are separate from the penalties imposed by the court, and may be imposed before a conviction even occurs.
If you are charged with an underage DUI in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the immediate steps you take can have a considerable impact on the outcome of your case. As such, understanding your rights and deadlines is critical to fighting for the best possible outcome.
If you or your child has been charged with a DUI in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, the team at Berger Law is ready to represent you. We understand the impact these charges can have on a young adult’s life, which is why we will do everything in our power to help you fight for the best possible outcome. When you need help, contact our firm today.
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