Underage Drinking and Driving in Macomb County, Myths and Facts

cop car.jpgMYTH #1: Underage drivers cannot be charged with a DUI unless they are above the legal limit.

FACT: False! Underage drivers on the road with ANY presence of alcohol may be charged with a drinking and driving crime. This type of charge is known as a zero tolerance. Repercussions can be severe, including;

– 30 day driver’s license suspension,
– $125.00 reinstatement fee,
– 4 points on master driving record,
– Community service,
– Court fines,
Probation,
– And state fees of $500.00 for 2 years.

Repeat offenders typically face stiffer penalties. This includes a longer license suspension, additional fees, and additional points. Further, when underage drivers are above the legal limit they can be charged with an OWI. OWI’s, as we have explained in detail, can be onerous in terms of the subsequent fines, punishment, and probation.

If you find yourself as a minor being charged with a drinking and driving offense seek legal representation. Our office has specialized in drinking and driving crimes for over 40 years. With each of these cases we always seek a sentence that is most favorable for our clients. Our office will always fight to eliminate jail time and advocates terms of probation that will be manageable for our clients. Do not let these cases linger, retain aggressive legal assistance and fight the charges.

MYTH #2: You can only get charged with an MIP for drinking alcohol.

FACT: False! Mere possession alcohol is sufficient to be charged with an MIP. Further, you can be charged with an MIP for transporting alcohol in your car (even if it’s the passenger’s). The meager act of holding a beer without taking a sip is sufficient for someone to be charged with a MIP. Further, we would like to remind you that the following is illegal;

– Allowing an intoxicated person to use your vehicle,
– Purchasing alcohol for anyone under 21,
– Providing a fake identification to anybody under the age of 21,
– Allowing minors to use alcohol in your home,
– And providing alcohol to minors.

Once again, we recommend anyone being charged with an MIP retain the help of an attorney. Especially when it is a first offense, our office usually can procure an arrangement where the charge will come off the client’s record. With these cases we aim to preserve the records of our young clients, keep them out of jail, and minimize any terms of probation.

To set up your free consultation call our office today. We can be reached at (586) 412 5555 twenty four hours a day. For more information about our law firm visit our website at www.cyabdolaw.com

Contact Information