How a DUI Conviction Can Impact a Teen

 Posted on May 18,2019 in DUI

Despite the best wishes of parents, the vast majority of teenagers will experiment with alcohol at some point in their high school career. All parents can really hope for, is the fact that their child will remain safe while drinking, avoid over-consumption and not get behind the wheel of a car. Unfortunately, many young people that take part in underage drinking, do ultimately make the decision to drive. Below, we will examine the many ways in which driving under the influence can impact a teenager’s future.

The Consequences of a Conviction

When a person is convicted of a DUI, their life can be altered forever. The implications of a conviction can go far beyond the initial criminal punishment. Listed below, are the most notable ways in which a DUI conviction can impact a teenager’s future.

The Legal Ramifications: Here in the state of Illinois, a first DUI offense can come with significant legal ramifications. If convicted, a person will face Class A misdemeanor charges. Outside of the implications of having a misdemeanor on your criminal record (which we will explore below), the charge can come with other punishments. Most notably, a first-time DUI offender may be sentenced to up to one year in prison, depending on the circumstances. The person is likely to also face substantial fines, as high as $2,500. Significant time spent in jail can drastically impact a young person’s mental and emotional wellbeing.

Loss of Driving Privileges: Under Illinois’ Zero Tolerance Law, passed in 1995, any person under the age of 21 that is convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol, will face having their driver’s license suspended. According to the Illinois Secretary of State’s office, nearly 400 drivers under the age of 21 lost their driving privileges in 2017, due to driving while inebriated. The ability to drive is paramount to most people, regardless of age. Loss of driving privileges is a significant loss of a person’s autonomy and quality of life. If a person under the age of 21 is convicted, they will face a two-year license revocation, rather than the standard one year sentence.

Schooling and Employment: There is no way around the fact that a DUI conviction looks bad on a young person’s criminal record. If your teenage child is convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol, it is likely that the conviction will seriously impact the way in which employers and college administrations view them as a candidate. Many admission offices will immediately dismiss students that have a DUI on their record. Many employers will view a prior DUI conviction as an indicator of immaturity. Regardless of what your child’s ultimate goals are, it is important to do whatever you and your family can to avoid a conviction.

Contact a Naperville DUI Defense Lawyer

If your child is charged with driving under the influence, it is important to act quickly. A DUI conviction can jeopardize your child’s academic opportunities, and be a significant financial burden to the entire family. Fortunately, Attorney Patricia Magaña is prepared to do everything in her power to ensure that her clients avoid a conviction. To schedule a complimentary consultation with a skilled Will County criminal defense lawyer, contact us today at 630-448-2001.

Sources:

https://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/publications/pdf_publications/dsd_a118.pdf