New Bern Underage DWI Attorneys

Defending Minors in Craven, Carteret, and Pamlico Counties

North Carolina has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. If you are under the age of 21 and are found to have any amount of alcohol in your system, you can be charged with driving while impaired (DWI).

Underage DWI is a serious offense that can have a lasting impact on your future. If you or your child has been charged with underage DWI, it is important to take the matter seriously and seek legal representation as soon as possible.

At Chesnutt & Clemmons, we understand the unique challenges that minors face when they are charged with DWI. Our New Bern underage DWI lawyers are here to provide the compassionate, personalized legal guidance you need during this difficult time. We will work tirelessly to protect your rights and fight for a favorable outcome on your behalf.

Call (252) 300-0133 or contact us online today to schedule a consultation with our team.

What Is the Legal Limit for Underage DWI in North Carolina?

For drivers who are 21 years of age or older, the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%. However, for drivers who are under the age of 21, the legal limit is much lower. In fact, it is 0.00%. This means that if you are under the age of 21 and have any amount of alcohol in your system, you can be charged with underage DWI.

It is important to note that you can be charged with underage DWI even if you are not actually impaired. If you have a BAC of 0.01% or higher, you can be arrested and charged with underage DWI, even if you do not feel or appear to be impaired.

What Are the Penalties for Underage DWI in North Carolina?

Underage DWI is a serious offense that can result in severe penalties. If you are convicted, you will face both criminal and administrative penalties.

The criminal penalties for a first-time underage DWI conviction in North Carolina include:

• Up to 60 days in jail
• Up to $1,000 in fines
• Up to 24 hours of community service
• License suspension for up to 1 year

If you are convicted of underage DWI a second time, you will face the same criminal penalties, but your license will be suspended for up to 4 years. If you are convicted of underage DWI a third time, you will face the same criminal penalties, but your license will be permanently revoked.

In addition to the criminal penalties, you will also face administrative penalties if you are convicted of underage DWI. These penalties are imposed by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and are separate from the criminal penalties.

The administrative penalties for a first-time underage DWI conviction in North Carolina include:

• License suspension for 30 days
• License suspension for an additional 1 year
• License suspension for an additional 1 year if you refuse to submit to a chemical test

If you are convicted of underage DWI a second time, your license will be suspended for 4 years. If you are convicted of underage DWI a third time, your license will be permanently revoked.

How Does Underage DWI Affect College?

Underage DWI can have a lasting impact on your future, including your ability to attend college. If you are convicted of underage DWI, you will have a criminal record. This means that when you apply to college, you will be required to disclose your conviction on your application.

Many colleges and universities have strict policies regarding criminal convictions. If you have a criminal record, you may be denied admission to the school of your choice. Even if you are admitted, you may not be eligible for certain scholarships, grants, or financial aid.

In addition to the impact on your college applications, you may also face disciplinary action from your current school if you are convicted of underage DWI. Many schools have strict policies regarding alcohol and drug use. If you are convicted of underage DWI, you may be suspended or expelled from school.