Florida Bar Offers Advice for Young Adults

Young college students are faced with a number of challenges as they enter the next phase of their lives. Beginning adulthood comes with extensive responsibilities, as these young people begin to take care of their own matters and face more serious consequences for their actions. Though their age may technically classify them as adults, their youth still leads them to occasionally make bad decisions. When your college student’s actions result in criminal liability, it is important to secure the services of an lawyer who understands that your child’s future is at stake.

The Florida Bar also recognizes the unique situation of young adults. To assist these vulnerable individuals, the organization has created an informational pamphlet about a variety of legal topics. The booklet provides guidance about entering into contracts, buying vehicles and landlord tenant issues. It also includes information about employment law and the Florida court system.

An important purpose of the pamphlet is to advise about current criminal laws that commonly affect people in this age group. It advises young people about the arrest process and what they can expect if they ever find themselves in this situation. Some of the important rights that it lists include:

• The right to know what you are being charged with ;
• The right to make a telephone call after the booking process is completed; and
• The right to learn the identity of any law enforcement officer who is involved in your arrest.

Drinking Laws

Florida’s alcohol consumption regulations are covered in the pamphlet. Young adults are advised about drinking and driving and the penalties that go along with it. One important legal detail that the pamphlet emphasizes is the concept of physical control over the vehicle. The pamphlet advises that, even if a person is intoxicated and sitting in a vehicle that is not running, authorities may still establish a DUI charge. This is because the intoxicated individual still maintains the means to operate the vehicle.

Implied consent is also discussed in the pamphlet. Under this law, if you operate a vehicle within the state of Florida, you consent to taking a breath or blood test to determine the amount of alcohol in your system. A refusal can result in suspension of your driving privileges.

The pamphlet addresses the open container law, which commonly results in criminal charges for young adults. Under this statute, no person can have an open container of alcohol in a motor vehicle. This applies to the driver, as well as any passengers.

Texting and Driving

Another section of the pamphlet refers to regulations on texting while driving. Under Florida statute, it is unlawful to type, text or email on a wireless device while operating a motor vehicle. While the first violation of this law is punishable as a nonmoving violation, subsequent offenses within five years are treated as moving violations. Young adults are also advised that their cellular records may be collected in the event of an automobile accident.

If your college aged child is facing criminal charges, the criminal defense lawyers in Miami can provide him or her with an aggressive and comprehensive defense. Contact Ratzan & Faccidomo, LLC in Miami today at (305) 330-3905 for a confidential and free consultation.