The Long-Term Consequences of a Juvenile DUI Conviction

Although Illinois has zero-tolerance policies regarding underage drinking or drug use and driving, teens and young adults under 21 frequently ignore them. Combined with inexperience, intoxication or impairments caused by drugs significantly increase the risk of teen drivers causing accidents. Being charged with a juvenile DUI can have severe consequences, especially if the underage driver injures or kills someone.

At Fotopoulos Law Office, we believe that these teens deserve a second chance. Your experienced Orland Park, IL criminal defense lawyer will work hard to develop a strong defense strategy designed to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

The Potential Consequences of a Juvenile DUI

Unlike adults, juveniles with even a trace amount of alcohol or drugs in their systems can be charged with driving under the influence. If convicted, the legal consequences in Illinois can be costly and can include:

• Fines
• Possible imprisonment
• Loss of driving privileges
• Community service

For each additional conviction, these become more severe. In some cases, parents can also face legal repercussions for their child’s underage drinking and driving. Along with driving under the influence, juveniles may also be charged for using a fake ID or illegal transportation of alcoholic beverages.

The legal ramifications are only some of the long-term effects of an underage drunk driver’s mistake. Others may include:

• Ineligibility for armed services, government positions, or law enforcement careers
• Needing to report the conviction on college applications
• Difficulty finding employment or housing
• Social stigma
• Financial responsibility for bodily injury, property damage, or death

DUI arrests often serve as a wake-up call, showing juveniles that their poor judgment can have real, long-lasting, and sometimes fatal consequences. With treatment and support, many of these young offenders will not repeat their negligent behaviors. However, without a skilled attorney, you may not get the benefit of the doubt.

How Fotopoulos Law Office Can Help With a Juvenile DUI Charge

When your child’s future is at stake, you need an effective lawyer you can trust to protect his best interests. When you choose Fotopoulos Law Office, we will evaluate your child’s arrest and charges, seeking information to help us develop the best possible defense strategy. Our approach will be tailored to your specific situation and could include:

• Disputing the validity of the DUI arrest
• Questioning field sobriety test results
• Providing alternate reasons for your child’s erratic driving behaviors
• Negotiating with prosecutors
• Building a strong profile to show that your child deserves another chance

We will work closely with you, explaining the legal options and helping you make informed decisions.

Call Our Orland Park, IL Juvenile Crimes Lawyer Today

The quality of the lawyer you choose to defend your child’s DUI charges will have a tremendous impact on his life. When you partner with Fotopoulos Law Office, we will work diligently to help you secure the best possible resolution. Call us at 708-942-8400 to schedule a  consultation with our dedicated Will County, IL DUI defense attorney.