Underage DUI Defense in Statesboro
Focused DUI Defense for Young Drivers & Students
Georgia applies a different legal standard to young drivers, making early attention to the evidence and license process critical. Gabe T. Cliett P.C. has handled DUI cases since 1997, representing young drivers in Statesboro and Bulloch County who face DUI charges and related traffic matters.
We deliberately maintain a small caseload to give each case focused attention. We return calls promptly, keep clients informed, and explain the decisions that arise during criminal and administrative proceedings.
Call (912) 274-7752 for a free consultation about an underage DUI charge and any approaching deadlines.
Building an Underage DUI Defense Around the Evidence
An arrest report doesn’t settle what occurred before, during, or after a traffic stop. We examine law enforcement’s account for inconsistencies and determine whether the available evidence supports the allegation.
Depending on the case record, we may examine the legal basis for the stop, the administration of chemical testing, and the evidence used to identify the driver or establish operation of the vehicle. A blood alcohol test result is only one piece of evidence. The collection procedure, testing process, timing, documentation, and surrounding circumstances can also matter.
Our review may address:
- The Traffic Stop: The stated reason for stopping the vehicle and the officer’s recorded observations.
- Chemical Testing: How a breath or blood sample was requested, obtained, handled, and tested.
- Officer Accounts: Whether reports, recordings, testimony, and other evidence present a consistent sequence of events.
- Additional Analysis: Whether investigators or outside professionals should examine particular evidence.
Gabe T. Cliett and W. Keith Barber bring more than four decades of combined legal knowledge to the defense team. We have handled hundreds of jury and bench trials, and we prepare for court when the circumstances require it.
Georgia Under-21 DUI Law & the 0.02 Threshold
Georgia applies a lower per se threshold to drivers under 21. Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-391(k)(1), a young driver violates this provision when an alcohol concentration of 0.02 grams or more is present within three hours after driving. Per se means the test result itself can establish the prohibited level without proof that the driver appeared impaired.
For drivers 21 and older, Georgia’s adult threshold is 0.08 percent. The lower 0.02 threshold exposes younger drivers to additional consequences even when the reported blood alcohol concentration is far below the adult limit.
A first or second conviction under the under-21 provision is classified as a misdemeanor. Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-391(k)(2), a third or subsequent conviction is classified as a high and aggravated misdemeanor. When such a conviction involves an alcohol concentration below 0.08 grams, Georgia law sets a minimum of 20 hours of community service.
The Georgia First Offender Act doesn’t apply to DUI cases, and Georgia doesn’t permit expungement of DUI convictions. Because a conviction remains on the record, it’s important to evaluate the charge, test evidence, and defense options before resolving the criminal case.
What Follows an Underage DUI Arrest in Bulloch County
A Georgia DUI charge can start two separate proceedings. The criminal case addresses the allegation and potential court-imposed consequences. The administrative license suspension process addresses driving privileges and follows its own deadline.
The 30-day ALS hearing deadline: An ALS hearing is an administrative license suspension hearing, and the request must be made within 30 calendar days of the arrest date. Missing the deadline results in automatic suspension, so families shouldn’t wait for a criminal court date before addressing the driver’s license issue.
The criminal court process: Misdemeanor DUI cases in Bulloch County are heard in Bulloch County State Court, while felony DUI matters proceed in Bulloch County Superior Court. We have appeared in both courts since 1997 and can explain how the criminal case and administrative proceeding relate without treating them as the same matter.
Guidance for Georgia Southern University Students & Families
An underage DUI allegation can require a student and family to address the criminal charge, driving privileges, court dates, and school obligations at the same time. During a free initial consultation, we can review the allegation, identify pending deadlines, explain the court process, and discuss potential defense options.
We offer student discounts for Georgia Southern University students seeking DUI defense. A criminal proceeding and a university disciplinary process are separate, and any institution-specific consequence depends on the school’s current policies and the student’s circumstances. An arrest doesn’t automatically determine the outcome of either process.
Related allegations may also require careful attention. Our published case results include the dismissal of a Possession of Alcohol by a Minor and False Identification matter. A published client review describes our firm resolving a DUI allegation involving a young driver. Past matters don’t guarantee a future result, but they reflect our experience with the issues these drivers can face.
Act Before a License or Court Deadline Passes
Young drivers and their families can contact us for a free consultation about a DUI charge or administrative license suspension deadline. We represent clients in Bulloch County criminal matters and communicate directly throughout the legal process.
Bring any available citation, bond paperwork, license notice, or testing information to the consultation. We can review what has happened, explain immediate deadlines, and discuss the next steps supported by the circumstances.
Call (912) 274-7752 or use our contact form to discuss underage DUI defense in Statesboro.
Our attorneys are dedicated to doing right by you and your case. You deserve a good lawyer.