Being accused of driving under the influence is always a serious matter, but drivers under the age of 21 may face even more serious consequences, with even tighter restrictions on acceptable limits. As the defense attorneys at The Walker Firm in Warner Robins explain, Georgia law limits the acceptable blood alcohol content to just 0.02% and provides two different avenues through which prosecution can file charges.

If you're under the age of 21 and facing a DUI, you can expect:

• A Suspended License: In Georgia, a DUI conviction carries an automatic suspension of your driving privileges. Those under the age of 21 can lose their license for up to six months, with no exemptions available for school or work. For drivers with previous DUIs on their record, this period may be even longer.
• Jail Time: First-time underage offenders will face a minimum of 24 hours in jail, but you could be sentenced to a year or more. However, the courts may be willing to make allowances for underage offenders, and your defense attorney may be able to work out a schedule that allows you to serve time on the weekends outside work hours.
• Community Service: A first-time DUI offender will likely be sentenced to at least 20 hours of community service. Underage drivers will usually have to complete this requirement within 60 days. For subsequent offenses, the amount of community service required may grow to at least 30 days of community service, along with higher fines and jail time.

Those convicted of a DUI often face serious long-term consequences, many of which could impact your life for years to come. The Walker Firm's defense attorneys have the in-depth experience and training to protect your rights and provide the aggressive representation you deserve. Visit their website to learn more or call (478) 923-4152 to schedule a consultation today.