We often don't think that our actions will have consequences, and in many cases, we often imagine that bad things happen to other people, not "me." However, this is simply not the case; nor was it the case for a 19 year old freshman University of Miami student who chose to get behind the wheel of a car while under the influence of alcohol one night. This college student allegedly sat behind the wheel of her car the night after a party at a posh Miami hotel night club at Fontainebleau. She was traveling nearly 80 mph when she rear ended an old grandma who had just finished her night shift at the local McDonald's that night. The impact of the collisions sent the trunk of the grandmother's car into her front seat, killing the woman on impact.

The police arrest affidavit claims that the young woman reported the police officer that she had attempted to stop her vehicle, but because the grandma had stopped suddenly in front of her, she was unable to slow down fast enough. At this time, the arresting officers conducted a blood alcohol content test only to find that the young ladies blood alcohol content levels were well over the legal limits of the state, more than double in fact. What is so devastating is the fact that this young woman hadn't even finished her first year of college at the local university, and she has just graduated from the nearby private school that summer just months before the accident last October. Her father is a well-known executive in the entertainment industry.

At the time of the arrest, not only did the police find her BAC levels to be at .231, but they also found on her person a fake driver's license (which is likely how she got into the hotel nightclub) as well as what appeared to be marijuana in a zip lock bag in the front seat. Her actions resulted in the death of an elderly woman and the court claimed that if convicted there was a possibility that she could be looking at up to 20 years behind bars for what happened. The court decided to establish a deal with her on the account that she pleads guilty for her actions. She did so and in returned received only a three years sentencing in prison for DUI manslaughter and vehicular homicide.

She has been classified as a youthful offender, even though she is technically an adult. As a result, this young lady will be required to conduct 1,000 hours of community service after she completes her three year sentencing behind bars. She will also be required to speak to others about the many dangers and consequences in drunk driving, in hopes that other people will be encouraged to not make the same (and very real) mistake. The student will not begin her sentencing until June 18^th, giving her sometime with her family before being sent away. Reports also show that the family who lost their loved one in the car accident is suing the night club for serving alcohol the girl responsible for the accident, because she was under the legal drinking age.

Depending on the state in which you live, will determine if there are laws for underage DUI's as opposed to zero tolerance laws. Whatever the case may be, if your minor has been arrested and charged with a DUI offense of any sort, hiring a trusted DUI defense lawyer in the area is absolutely crucial to their future. Please use our website to locate one near you, today!