Underage Drinking & DUI

Underage Drinking & DUI Charges in Georgia | Juvenile Defense Attorney in Atlanta, Georgia

Arrested for Underage Drinking or DUI? Protect Your Child’s Future Immediately.

In Georgia, underage drinking and driving under the influence (DUI) are serious criminal offenses—even for first-time juvenile offenders. A mistake at a party, in a car, or on campus can lead to a criminal record, license suspension, school discipline, and even jail time. For minors and their families in Atlanta, Georgia, early legal action is critical.

At Khalil Eaddy Trial Attorney, we defend juveniles and young adults facing underage alcohol and DUI charges. We focus on protecting your child’s record, fighting for their rights, and securing outcomes that prioritize rehabilitation—not punishment.

Georgia’s Zero Tolerance Law for Underage Drinking and Driving

Georgia enforces a Zero Tolerance policy for drivers under 21 years old:

  • A Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.02% or higher = automatic DUI charge
  • This threshold is much lower than the 0.08% limit for adults
  • Applies even if the minor does not appear impaired

O.C.G.A. § 40-6-391(k) establishes that drivers under 21 who exceed the 0.02% BAC limit are subject to DUI penalties, even on first offenses.

Consequences of an Underage DUI in Georgia

Legal Penalties:

  • License suspension (minimum of 6 months for first offense)
  • Fines and court costs
  • Mandatory DUI Risk Reduction Program (DUI School)
  • Community service
  • Probation or jail time depending on the severity
  • Permanent criminal record if convicted in adult court

School & Life Consequences:

  • Suspension from school or athletic teams
  • Disqualification from scholarships or financial aid
  • Difficulty applying to colleges, internships, or jobs
  • Increased insurance rates or canceled coverage

A DUI conviction doesn’t just affect today—it can impact your child’s opportunities for years.

Underage Possession or Consumption of Alcohol (O.C.G.A. § 3-3-23)

You don’t have to be driving to face consequences. In Georgia, it is illegal for anyone under 21 to:

  • Possess alcohol (even if unopened)
  • Consume alcohol (even at private parties)
  • Attempt to purchase alcohol
  • Use a fake ID to obtain alcohol

Consequences may include:

  • Fines and court supervision
  • Driver’s license suspension (even if no vehicle was involved)
  • Mandatory alcohol education classes
  • Community service

For first-time offenders, we often negotiate pretrial diversion or conditional discharge to avoid a permanent criminal record.

Fake IDs and False Identification Charges

If a minor uses or possesses a fake ID to buy alcohol, they may face:

  • Misdemeanor charges for possession of fraudulent identification
  • Additional charges if the ID was used to mislead law enforcement or school officials
  • Automatic license suspension and possible expulsion from school or campus housing

We help prevent a youthful mistake from turning into a criminal conviction.

How We Defend Juveniles Accused of Underage Drinking or DUI

At Khalil Eaddy Trial Attorney, we take a proactive approach to every case. Our goal is to protect your child’s record and future by:

  • Challenging the legality of the stop or arrest
  • Reviewing whether the breathalyzer or field sobriety tests were properly administered
  • Negotiating for diversion programs or deferred adjudication
  • Fighting for record restriction or expungement after completion of the sentence
  • Working with schools to avoid academic penalties or disciplinary hearings

We provide experienced, compassionate representation tailored to the needs of students and families.

First-Time Offender Options in Atlanta, Georgia

Your child may be eligible for alternatives to conviction, including:

  • Pretrial Diversion
  • Conditional Discharge
  • Underage Alcohol Education Programs
  • Community-Based Restorative Justice Programs

These options can lead to dismissal and record sealing, depending on the facts of the case.

Your Child Deserves a Future, Not a Record. Call Now.

If your child has been charged with underage drinking, DUI, or possession of alcohol in Atlanta, Georgia, take the first step toward protecting their future. We help families navigate the juvenile justice system with skill, urgency, and care.

Call 770-303-0700 today for a confidential consultation and start building your defense.

At Khalil Eaddy Trial Attorney, we’re not here to judge—we’re here to fight. Let’s protect your child’s record and restore their peace of mind.