Underage DUI in Maryland: What Parents Should Know

Frank Benvenuto, P.A.
1 day ago
4 min read

When teenagers and young adults head to Ocean City for vacation, Senior Week, or summer events, one poor decision can have serious consequences. If your son or daughter is arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI) in Maryland, the penalties can affect much more than their summer plans.

For more than 33 years, I have represented people charged with DUI and other criminal offenses in Maryland. If your child has been arrested, it is important to understand what happens next and why acting quickly matters.

Maryland’s Zero-Tolerance Law

Maryland has strict laws for drivers under the age of 21. Because the legal drinking age is 21, any alcohol in an underage driver’s system can lead to serious consequences. Even if the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is below the legal limit for adults, they may still face administrative penalties and criminal charges depending on the circumstances.

What Penalties Could an Underage Driver Face?

An underage DUI or DWI may result in:

Driver’s license suspension or revocation
Significant fines
Possible jail time for more serious offenses
Court costs
Mandatory alcohol education or treatment
Increased insurance premiums
A permanent criminal record if convicted

The exact penalties depend on the driver’s age, BAC, prior record, and the facts surrounding the arrest.

More Than Just a Traffic Ticket

Many parents are surprised to learn that an underage DUI is not “just a ticket.”

A conviction may affect:

College admissions
Scholarships and financial aid
Internships
Future employment opportunities
Professional licensing
Security clearances
Military opportunities

These long-term consequences make it important to take the charge seriously.

What Should Parents Do After an Arrest?

If your child has been arrested:

Stay calm.
Do not encourage your child to explain the incident to police without legal advice.
Keep all court paperwork and deadlines.
Contact an experienced Maryland criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.

Early legal representation may help identify weaknesses in the case, protect your child’s rights, and pursue the best possible outcome.

Every Case Is Different

No two DUI cases are exactly alike. The legality of the traffic stop, field sobriety testing, breath or blood testing, and other evidence should all be carefully reviewed before deciding how to proceed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my child lose their driver’s license after an underage DUI?

Yes. Maryland law allows for license suspensions and other administrative penalties depending on the circumstances of the arrest and the driver’s age.

Will an underage DUI stay on my child’s record?

A conviction can have lasting consequences. The outcome depends on the charges, how the case is resolved, and whether future relief may be available under Maryland law.

Does my child have to appear in court?

In most cases, yes. Missing a court date can create additional legal problems, including the possibility of a bench warrant.

Should we just plead guilty?

Not before speaking with an attorney. There may be legal defenses or procedural issues that could affect the outcome of the case.

Talk to Frank Benvenuto

If your child has been charged with an underage DUI or DWI in Ocean City, Worcester County, or anywhere on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, don’t wait to get experienced legal guidance.

With over 33 years of experience, I personally work with clients and their families to explain the process, protect their rights, and pursue the best possible result.

Call Frank Benvenuto today at 443-783-2451 for a confidential consultation.