Contact us for a video consultation
schedule now

PHONE: 803.799.7900

logo new

PHONE: 803.799.7900

Home > Practice Areas > DUI Defense

Underage DUI

Underage DUI offenses have very damaging consequences. South Carolina has a Zero Tolerance Policy for underage drinking and driving. That means that after just one drink, a minor can be charged with DUI, regardless of whether or not they are physically impaired.

Penalties you face for being convicted of having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.02% up to 0.08%:
FIRST OFFENSE
  • 3 month driver’s license suspension
  • 6 month driver’s license suspension if you refuse a chemical test
SECOND OFFENSE (WITHIN 5 YEARS)
  • 6 months driver’s license suspension
  • 1 year driver’s license suspension if you refuse a chemical test
Penalties you face for being convicted of having a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher:

If your blood alcohol is .08% or higher, you can be charged with DUI, even if you aren’t yet 21. You can also be charged if you are under the influence of marijuana, cocaine, or other illegal drugs, as well as prescription medications that impair your ability to drive. The penalties for DUI are even stiffer than those for Underage DUI.

FIRST OFFENSE
  • Driver’s license suspended for 6 months
  • $400 fine
  • Minimum 48 hours of jail, with a maximum of 30 days
  • 48 hours of Public Service

The consequences are progressively worse with increased BAC levels, and subsequent DUI arrests.

Charges for any underage drinking offense are serious, and can have far reaching consequences beyond the legal penalties. If you are convicted of DUI, you could face:

  • Loss of your LIFE scholarship eligibility for one year
  • Ineligibility for some types of financial aid
  • Restriction from participation on school sports teams
  • SR-22 Insurance requirement, costing you hundreds more a month for auto insurance
  • Difficulty getting a job in the future

The attorneys at Bernstein & Bernstein can help you if you are charged with Underage DUI or with any other underage drinking offenses. We have the experience and knowledge to fight for your rights in court. Contact us today for a consultation.

DUI Defense

Schedule a Meeting

To schedule a free initial consultation (now by video), complete the form below:

"*" indicates required fields

Name:*
Disclaimer: The use this form with our firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
*

Who we are

our attorneys

The attorneys at Bernstein & Bernstein, LLC are experienced, compassionate professionals committed to finding you the best possible outcome, regardless of your case type. All of our attorneys were born and raised right here in Columbia, South Carolina, which gives us a unique, local experience you won’t find anywhere else. Learn more about what sets our team of Bernstein & Bernstein attorneys apart:
View All
Our firm

why choose us?

Bernstein & Bernstein, LLC is proud to provide a unique legal experience to each and every one of our clients. Here, you partner with passionate local attorneys who have a lifetime of experience with South Carolina’s laws. No matter the case, the complexity, or the compensation, we’re dedicated to securing the best possible outcome for you.
  • All of our attorneys were born and raised right here in Columbia, South Carolina.
  • Our attorneys are passionate and conscientious. We’re always looking out for our client’s best interests
  • We’re dedicated to improving our local community as a whole with each case we represent
  • Bernstein & Bernstein has a strong reputation of success and many years of experience in every one of our many practice areas.
learn more about our firm

Sign up for our newsletter

We occassionally send firm updates, legal news, and other usefull information related to our practice areas. Subscribe to our newsletter stay up to date with our firm.

"*" indicates required fields

NAME:*

PHONE: 803.799.7900
TOLL FREE: 877.799.7926
1019 Assembly Street
Columbia, South Carolina 29201

The information in this website should not be construed as legal advice. Legal advice can only be given when an attorney knows all of the facts and circumstances of your case. Every case is unique and the information and examples given in this website should not create an expectation that a similar or particular result can be achieved in any case.

©2023 Bernstein & Bernstein, LLC
All Rights Reserved.
website by HLJ Creative