Being charged with underage DUI in Richmond can be a frightening and overwhelming experience, especially for young adults unfamiliar with the Commonwealth’s legal system. Retaining an underage DUI attorney can help minimize the life-changing consequences of underage drinking and DUI charges. Skilled Richmond DUI defense lawyer Cody Villalon understands the potentially severe effects an underage DUI can have on your life and future.
Why You Should Retain Cody Villalon to Represent You
Cody Villalon is among the Richmond area’s most dedicated lawyers for underage DUI charges. He has extensive experience defending young people facing underage DUI charges and can offer you the following:
- Experience you can trust
- Compassion and understanding
- Legal support and guidance
- Dedication to protecting your future
- Open and transparent communication and case updates.
How Cody Villalon Can Help if You Have Been Charged with Underage DUI
Cody Villalon understands that mistakes happen, and he believes in second chances. He will work diligently to protect your rights and minimize the potential consequences you face. Cody is an experienced criminal defense attorney and will:
- Meticulously review the details of your case, including police reports, field sobriety test results, and blood alcohol content (BAC) readings, searching for any errors or inconsistencies
- Analyze whether the police had probable cause to pull you over and whether proper procedures were followed during the stop, arrest, and administration of field sobriety or breathalyzer tests.
- Explore alternative options, including negotiating with the prosecutor for reduced charges, diversion programs, or dismissal of the case in exchange for community service or an alcohol education program.
- Prepare your case for trial, if necessary, providing you with aggressive and strategic representation in court.
Virginia Underage DUI Laws
In Virginia, it is illegal to purchase, possess, or consume alcohol if you are younger than 21 years old. Virginia has a zero-tolerance policy for underage alcohol consumption and driving. Under Virginia Code § 18.2-266.1, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to operate a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.02% or higher, meaning that even a tiny amount of alcohol can trigger an underage DUI charge.
Consequences of an Underage DUI Conviction
A conviction for underage DUI in Richmond can have severe repercussions for your future. An underage DUI conviction in Virginia involving a BAC between 0.02% and 0.08% is charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The consequences for an underage DUI charge can include the following:
- License suspension: Your driver’s license could be suspended for up to one year.
- Fines: You may face a fine ranging from $500 to $2,500.
- Community service: You can be ordered to complete a minimum of 50 hours of community service.
- Imprisonment: You can face up to 12 months in jail for an underage DUI conviction.
- Alcohol education programs: You may be required to attend an Alcohol Safety Action Program (ASAP).
- Breath testing: You may be required to submit to breath testing while participating in ASAP.
- Ignition interlock device: You will be required to have an ignition interlock device installed on your vehicle.
- Restitution: If your underage DUI leads to an accident, you may be ordered to pay for the cost of the emergency personnel who respond to the collision.
- Increased insurance rates: Your car insurance premiums will likely increase substantially.
- Academic consequences: Your academic standing at school could be impacted, including potential suspension or expulsion.
- Future employment difficulties: An underage DUI conviction will be reported to the Central Criminal Records Exchange, potentially hindering your ability to secure future employment opportunities.
It is important to note that if your BAC is 0.08% or greater, you will face the same penalties as individuals over 21 years of age who are convicted of driving under the influence. Cody Villalon, a skilled underage DUI attorney in Richmond, can help fight to have your charges reduced or penalties lessened.
Choose Cody Villalon for Your Underage DUI Defense
Underage DUI lawyer Cody Villalon understands that mistakes happen and believes in second chances. Contact Cody today at (804) 316-0765 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your Richmond underage DUI charge. He will work diligently to protect your rights and minimize the consequences you may face that can affect you for the rest of your life.
DEFENSE ATTORNEY CODY VILLALON
Cody Villalon is a criminal defense attorney in Richmond, VA representing clients accused of violent offenses and DUIs, and he specializes in serious criminal charges. He possesses more than 10 years of legal experience, has defended more than 1,000 cases, and has spent more than 5,000 hours in court. He is highly professional and well-respected by prosecutors and judges. [ Attorney Bio ]
