Greensboro Underage DWI Lawyer

Greensboro Underage DWI Attorney

North Carolina has an impaired driving problem. Greensboro has many of the most dangerous roads in the state. The deadliest roads are Interstate 40/Interstate 85 corridor exchanges at Randleman Road, Elm-Eugene Street, and U.S. 29, especially near W. Wendover Ave. and Battleground Ave. If your home includes an underage driver that has been charged with driving after consuming under 21 or DWI, consider consulting a Greensboro underage DWI lawyer.

North Carolina considers underage DWI a big deal, with serious lifelong consequences. Drinking and driving under the age of 21 or getting charged with an under-21 DWI can result in a permanent criminal record, multiple fines, jail time, and mandatory license revocation. If you or a loved one is charged with an under-21 DWI, contact a Greensboro underage DWI attorney at LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, PLLC, today.

North Carolina and Underage Drinking

Recent statistics show that, in North Carolina, underage drinking and driving continues to be a significant and costly issue. 2023 data indicates that alcohol remains the primary factor in teen traffic fatalities, with 30% of drivers 15-20 years of age who were killed in a fatal accident having a BAC of 0.01g/dL. 1 in 5 high school students in North Carolina drink alcohol on a regular basis. 19% consume alcohol regularly, and 51% binge drink.

Young drivers who consume alcohol generate future health and safety problems for North Carolina residents and increase costs for the state. In 2023, North Carolina lost $15 billion from lost productivity, early death, reduced work performance, and fetal alcohol syndrome. There are also increasing statewide costs for healthcare and criminal justice.

Underage DWI Laws in North Carolina

North Carolina has a zero-tolerance law for underage drunk driving. The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers under 21 years is 0.00. Yes, zero. If you are caught driving with any level of alcohol or drug-related impairment, you’ll be charged with a DWI. All underage drivers can be charged if they drive after consuming alcohol.

These charges carry significant fines, jail time, and mandatory license revocation. If an underage driver tests with a BAC of 0.08, they could also be charged with DWI. If test results indicate a low BAC, then an underage driver may get a charge of driving after consuming. Driving after consuming is a Class 2 misdemeanor for first-time offenders, with mandatory license revocation, substantial fines, potential jail time, and a permanent criminal record.

In North Carolina, many underage drivers are charged with both driving after consuming and DWI. Keep in mind, convictions for either charge are permanent and cannot be expunged.

When to Hire an Underage DWI Lawyer in Greensboro

If you, a loved one, or a friend has been charged with underage DWI or driving after consuming, it’s time to hire an underage DWI lawyer. The severity of an underage DWI case and North Carolina’s strict underage DWI laws require experienced legal guidance.

At LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, PLLC, you’ll find  experienced lawyers with a passion for justice and a solid understanding of North Carolina’s DWI laws. Our legal team can provide legal guidance, representation, and support for your underage DWI case from start to finish. We can review your case, examine the evidence, and create a defense to effectively pursue an optimal result.

Residents of Greensboro with a hearing or court date for an underage DWI must head to the Guilford County Courthouse at 201 South Eugene Street.

FAQs

How Much Does a DWI Cost in North Carolina?

The cost of a DWI in North Carolina varies based on the level of severity. The costs to you could  include:

• Court fees
• Financial penalties tied to the DWI level
• License suspension fees
• Alternative transportation options
• Installation and monthly rental of an ignition interlock device
• Substantially higher insurance premiums

Additionally, you may pay for rehabilitation costs and attorney fees.

What Happens If You Get a DWI While Under 21 Years of Age in North Carolina?

When a person under 21 years of age gets a DWI in North Carolina, it triggers a zero-tolerance policy and a charge of a Class 2 misdemeanor. This carries a mandatory 1-year license revocation, fines of up to $1,000, up to 60 days in jail, and a permanent criminal record. Insurance coverage costs can increase significantly, and it will remain on your driving record forever.

Can You Get a DWI Dismissed in North Carolina?

Yes, technically, it is possible to get a DWI charge dismissed in North Carolina. However, North Carolina law is strict and restricts plea bargains.

A dismissal may occur if an attorney can prove that the arrest was based on insufficient evidence or that your constitutional rights were violated. Other reasons include improper administration of a chemical test or a field sobriety test. Consult an experienced DWI lawyer about your case.

Is a DUI or DWI Worse in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the term DWI is used. Years ago, in the 1980s, DUI was used, but this changed. Now, DWI covers both impaired driving due to alcohol and drugs.

Choose LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, PLLC

Being arrested as an underage driver for DWI can be frightening and have life-changing effects. If you or your underage driver is facing a DWI in North Carolina, we can help. Trust the underage DWI lawyers at LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, PLLC, with your underage DWI case. Our legal team can carefully manage your case, providing personalized service and determined advocacy throughout each stage. Contact us today to set up a consultation.