Stamford Underage DUI Penalties
If an individual is under 21 when they are convicted of a DUI in Stamford, then the penalties are the same as if they were of age. This includes six months of jail time for the first conviction, two days of which are a mandatory minimum, and a large fine.
If you or your child are facing an underage DUI in Stamford, it is imperative to consult with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. A seasoned Stamford DUI attorney can compile the elements of the claim and build an effective defense to help lessen or dismiss any potential penalties.
Impact on the License
After being convicted of a DUI, an individual’s license can be suspended as an initial Stamford underage DUI penalty. Further, they will have to use an ignition interlock device in their car for at least a year.
When the courts suspend a person’s driver’s license, there is always a chance to challenge it and try to prevent the suspension. However, it is very difficult when the police know what to look for, and they make sure to make notations that will result in a license suspension.
Having an interlock device in a car is something that can be embarrassing, but it is part of what goes along with a DUI.
Ignition Interlock Devices
If an individual is licensed when they get an underage DUI, for the first 45 days of the suspension, the person can apply for a work permit that will let the person drive to and from work.
After that, if the person installs the ignition interlock device, then they can drive without restriction if they pass the breathalyzer test administered by the ignition interlock device in the car.
When they start the car, and during the drive, they will be asked to submit to a breath test. If they fail, they car will shut down.
Impact on an Individual’s Future
The penalties associated with a Stamford underage DUI conviction could severely impact an individual’s future with employment opportunities. If there is a conviction, then it will show up on every criminal background check an employer runs.
These Stamford underage DUI penalties are something that can prevent an individual from getting jobs in the future. If they are not a citizen, these penalties could result in deportation.
The long-term implications of Stamford underage DUI penalties include the social stigma that goes along with it. It could be very difficult to get back on one’s feet if the person loses their job as a result. It is something that could follow the person for a long time in a variety of ways, and it is difficult to shake.
Potential Penalty Alternatives
Instead of going to jail and facing the most severe penalties of a Stamford underage DUI conviction, the judge may order the person to do community service of at least 100 hours.
That would be required instead of the mandatory minimum two days in addition to whatever conditions the judge imposes on probation.
There are no special requirements to qualify for these alternatives. If it is an individual’s first time, a judge could order that if it is agreed to.