Adam Chrzan Attorney at Law

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Adam Chrzan Attorney at Law
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Experienced Criminal Defense When It Matters Most

Vero Beach Lawyer Handling Underaged DUIs

A single mistake behind the wheel can put a young person’s future at risk. A young driver’s DUI arrest can threaten driving privileges, school plans and future opportunities. As a former prosecutor now defending the accused in Vero Beach and across the Treasure Coast, I understand how these cases are built and how quickly they can escalate.

With over 20 years of criminal law experience, including six years as a prosecutor on the Treasure Coast, I provide straight talk and focused defense strategies for families facing underaged drinking and driving allegations. My goal as your attorney is to protect your child’s record, minimize the long-term consequences and help your family move forward.

What Is The Difference Between An Adult DUI And An Underaged DUI In Florida?

Florida’s zero tolerance law applies to drivers under 21. While the legal threshold for an adult DUI is a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08%, drivers under 21 may face penalties with a BAC of just .02%.

If the BAC is between .02% and .079%, the case may proceed as a zero tolerance violation, often involving an administrative license suspension rather than a standard DUI criminal charge. However, if the BAC reaches .08% or higher, the state may pursue an adult DUI charge with more serious criminal penalties.

A lawyer can review the stop, testing procedures and breath results to identify possible defenses.

Will Your Child Go To Jail For A First-Time Underage DUI?

For a first-time zero tolerance violation below .08%, jail is not automatic. Common juvenile DUI penalties may include:

  • License suspension: Often at least six months for a first violation
  • Fines and court costs: Depending on the facts and local court procedures
  • Educational programs: Alcohol awareness, DUI school or diversion-based alternatives
  • Detention alternatives: In some cases, juvenile programs or supervised detention centers

These outcomes can become more severe if the case involves property damage, bodily injury or a BAC at or above the adult DUI level.

Can An Underaged DUI Affect College Scholarships Or Admissions?

Yes. A DUI-related charge or conviction may affect scholarship eligibility, college admissions decisions and future professional licensing opportunities. Parents are right to take these charges seriously.

As a Vero Beach lawyer handling underaged DUI cases, I work to protect not only the young person’s rights in the immediate case but also his or her long-term future.

Talk To A Vero Beach DUI Attorney Today

If your child has been charged under Florida’s zero tolerance DUI law, contact Adam Chrzan, Attorney At Law, today. Call my firm at 772-410-3722 or use the online contact option to speak with an attorney or lawyer available to help 24/7.