Q: What are the consequences for getting an underage drinking ticket while on informal probation for a DUI?
A:
Getting an underage drinking ticket while on informal probation for a DUI can have serious consequences, including:
Probation violation: An underage drinking ticket may be considered a violation of your informal probation for the DUI, which can result in more severe consequences, such as jail time or a longer probation period.
Increased penalties: You may face additional fines, community service, or other penalties as a result of the underage drinking ticket.
Driver's license suspension: Your driver's license may be suspended or revoked, which can make it difficult for you to get to work or school.
Criminal record: Both a DUI and an underage drinking ticket are criminal offenses, and having both on your record can make it harder to get a job, housing, or loans in the future.
Impact on insurance: Your car insurance rates may increase, or your insurance company may drop you altogether, which can make it harder to find affordable coverage in the future.
Overall, getting an underage drinking ticket while on informal probation for a DUI can have significant and long-lasting consequences. It's important to take these charges seriously and consult with a qualified attorney who can help you understand your options and protect your rights.
A: First, your probation may be violated. If so, the Judge from your DUI case can punish you with whatever jail time you were not originally sentenced to (up to 180 days for a first time misdemeanor DUI). With that said, underage drinking is a relatively minor offense, especially if you're very close to 21. A lawyer may be able to explore diversion options, where you would have to earn yourself a dismissal. However, just being arrested/cited can, in and of itself, be grounds for a probation violation (even if the arrest doesn't lead to conviction). Thus, you would be well advised to retain counsel not just for the open case, but also for the PV, so the two can be coordinated together.
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