What to Do When Your Underage Child is Charged with a DUI
As a parent, you want the very best for your child, but you can’t be with them 24/7 helping them to make the right decisions. So, what happens when your child finds themselves in a serious situation which involves a crime taking place?
If your child has been charged with an underage DUI in the state of Alaska, it’s important you know exactly what steps to take and when to take those steps. When it comes to juvenile charges, these are ones that can stick with them for a long period to come, and negatively affect their future well into their adult years. Here’s a look at the steps you can take to help ensure the best outcome possible.
What is an Underage DUI?
Discovering your child has been charged with an underage DUI is a scary and overwhelming experience. First things first, you need to understand what this charge means. In the state of Alaska, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to drink alcohol. There are a number of reasons for this law, including the fact that alcohol-related auto fatalities are quite high when underage drinking is involved.
What this also means is that the penalties and standards are much harsher and stricter for those caught drinking and driving under the age of 21.
If you're wondering how much drinking is allowed or considered safe for those under the age of 21, the answer is none. The state has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to underage drinking. If the driver tests higher than 00.00% for their blood alcohol content, they will be charged.
What Will the Consequences Be?
The consequences will depend on whether this is your child’s first offense. If this is a second offense then they will be faced with a fine, imprisonment, and suspension of their license. If it is their first charge they will still face a fine, a shorter license suspension, and a shorter imprisonment time.
You can also expect their car insurance to skyrocket. Often people end up having to give up driving simply because they can’t afford their new car insurance rate. Because the charge will end up on their record, this can affect their future college admissions, employment opportunities, and even dictate whether or not they can volunteer. Some even find it hard to rent/lease/buy a house, apartment, or car.
What Should You Do?
The moment your child is charged with an underage DUI, it is important you get in contact with an attorney. Dattan Law in Anchorage is well-equipped and experienced in these kinds of cases and can walk you through the process. At the very least they can weigh in and give you their opinion.
Make Sure You Take the Right Steps
It’s normal to feel confused, stressed, and upset when your child is charged with an underage DUI but at the same time it’s important to know what you need to do so that you can set them up for the best outcome possible.
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