DUI and Underage Drinking Lawyers for Villanova University Students
If you are facing DUI charges or underage drinking charges, it can be overwhelming for any student or parent. If you or your child is a Villanova University student and has been charged with underage drinking or driving under the influence (DUI), it can affect not only their academic standing but also their future.
While underage drinking may seem like a common occurrence, the fact is that an underage drinking conviction is an automatic 90-day driver’s license suspension for a first offense (plus a large fine), one year for a second offense, and two years for third and subsequent offenses. It also means that a criminal record will be created that could be seen by any future employer or college admissions office. A conviction could also mean a suspension by the Villanova University disciplinary board.
At Saadzoi Law, we understand how frightening this situation can be, and we are here to help guide your family through the legal process with skill, compassion, and a focus on protecting your child’s future.
Our top priority is to have your case dismissed and get the best outcome possible for you and your family.
Not every arrest leads to a conviction. It is important to speak with an experienced and aggressive criminal lawyer as soon as possible.
A criminal conviction can make everything in the future more difficult, including obtaining auto insurance, getting into colleges or graduate schools, applying for financial aid, and even finding housing and employment. With a basic background check, anyone can see your criminal record.
There are legal options to consider to reduce underage drinking penalties, such as the first-time offender program or ARD Program, which a Delaware County DUI Attorney can help you understand.
Do Not Fight Underage Drinking Charges Alone
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A Criminal Record: Understanding What is at Stake
Villanova University has a strict alcohol policy. According to the Office of the Dean of Students, any student caught violating these policies can face serious disciplinary actions, including suspension, parental notification, and mandatory educational programs.
On top of university consequences, Pennsylvania law imposes harsh penalties for underage drinking and DUI, especially for individuals under the age of 21.
When you turn 18, you are an adult. Still, U.S. laws make it illegal for a person under the age of 21 in Pennsylvania to drink alcohol, buy alcohol, attempt to buy alcohol, possess alcohol, or knowingly transport any alcoholic drink with an alcohol content in excess of .50% of alcohol by volume (rubbing alcohol is excluded).
Underage drinking is a summary offense under Pennsylvania Code 18 §6308
These charges can have long-lasting consequences, including:
- A permanent criminal record;
- Suspension or expulsion from school;
- Loss of scholarships or financial aid;
- Driver’s license suspension;
- Possible incarceration;
- Increased insurance rates;
- Difficulties with future employment;
- Difficulties in future college admissions or graduate programs.
Saadzoi Law is here to help you mitigate these consequences and ensure that one mistake does not derail an otherwise promising future.
How Saadzoi Law Can Help
Our experienced attorneys specialize in criminal defense and DUI charges and have extensive experience representing college students throughout Delaware County, including those attending Villanova University. We provide personalized, aggressive, and discreet representation.
Our goal is to resolve your case in a way that protects your record, your rights, and your educational and career goals.
We can help by:
- Reviewing the evidence and identifying weaknesses in the prosecution’s case;
- Determining whether your rights were violated during the arrest or investigation;
- Negotiating for reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or dismissal;
- Representing you in criminal court, and;
- Seeking expungement if you qualify.
Is It Possible to Avoid Penalties and Fight Underage Drinking Charges?
In short, the answer is usually yes.
An experienced attorney who works in Delaware County regularly understands the different programs available and can help you fight to avoid the worst, or even get the charges dropped completely.
At Saadzoi Law, our goal is to get your charges dropped or have the charges reduced significantly so you can avoid maximum penalties.
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610-566-5956
Penalties for Underage Drinking (Without DUI)
In Pennsylvania, underage drinking is taken very seriously. Even if no one is driving, being caught in possession of alcohol or having consumed alcohol under the age of 21 can result in severe penalties:
- Summary Offense: First-time underage drinking is typically charged as a summary offense.
- Fines: Up to $500 for a first offense, and up to $1,000 for subsequent offenses.
- License Suspension: 90-day suspension for the first offense, one-year suspension for the second, and two years for the third.
- Jail Time: Although it is unlikely, an underage drinking conviction could be punishable by up to 90 days in jail.
- Criminal Record: A conviction can appear on background checks and impact internships, graduate school admissions, and job applications.
We work hard to keep underage drinking charges off your record and minimize the consequences you face.
Penalties for DUI for Underage Drinkers
Pennsylvania has a “zero tolerance” policy for drivers under 21. If you’re caught driving with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.02% or higher, you can be charged with DUI — even if you only had one drink.
Penalties for a first-time underage DUI in Delaware County, PA include:
- Misdemeanor charge;
- Minimum 48 hours in jail, up to 6 months;
- Automatic 12-month driver’s license suspension from PennDOT;
- Fines between $500 and $5,000;
- Mandatory alcohol safety school;
- Community service;
- One-year ignition interlock.
Subsequent offenses carry much harsher penalties, including longer jail time, higher fines, and longer license suspensions.
We understand that a DUI at a young age can severely affect your academic and career future. Our firm will explore all options, including Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD), which can help first-time offenders avoid a criminal conviction and allow for expungement after successful completion.
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610-566-5956
First Time Offender Program for Underage Drinking in Delaware County
A first-time offender program is a preadjudication program that allows a first-time underage drinking offender to avoid a conviction or guilty plea in the case and avoid imposition of a fine. Each county offers different programs with different requirements.
Delaware County Youth Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program
The program is known as the Delaware County Youth Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program. It is an approved alternative sentencing program for persons charged with underage drinking. It is for first-time offenders only.
Participants of the program are required to pay any and all restitution as a condition to participation in the Youth Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program.
Whether a person is eligible for the Youth Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program is within the sound discretion of the District Justice. An experienced and aggressive attorney can help with the process of applying for the program and increase the chances of acceptance.
This program involves community service hours that must be performed through the Delaware County Community Service Department.
Fees for the Delaware County Youth Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program
- $40 if you are ordered to complete 49 hours of community service.
- $100 if you are ordered to complete 50 hours or more of community service.
The program also involves courses that must be taken at the Delaware County Government Center or the Delaware County Emergency Services Training Center. The cost of this class is $ 100.
If you or your child fails to complete the Youth Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program, the District Justice shall proceed with the case as provided by law.
It is important to note that if you are accepted into the preadjudication program, you will avoid a criminal record and steeper fines.
Underage Drinking Lawyers – Media, PA
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About Saadzoi Law
Attorney Wana Saadzoi has over a decade of experience in criminal law and has been recognized as one of the top criminal defense lawyers in Pennsylvania. A former prosecutor, she brings valuable insight into how the other side builds its case — and uses that knowledge to build the strongest possible defense for her clients.
Based in Media, PA, Saadzoi Law serves all of Delaware County and the surrounding areas. We are deeply familiar with the local court system, including Magisterial District Courts and the Delaware County Court of Common Pleas. We have successfully represented many Villanova students and understand the importance of discretion, confidentiality, and sensitivity when dealing with college-related legal matters.
Why Choose Saadzoi Law
- Compassionate Representation: We understand this may be your child’s first encounter with the legal system. We treat every client with respect and empathy.
- Experience with Student Cases: We have a proven track record helping students from Villanova and other local universities.
- Local Knowledge: We know Delaware County courts, judges, and prosecutors. That gives us an edge in negotiation and litigation.
- Clear Communication: We keep both students and their families informed every step of the way.
- Proactive Defense: We don’t just react to charges — we proactively build a defense to protect your future.
What to Do If Your Villanova Student Is Charged with DUI or Underage Drinking
If you or your child is facing underage drinking or DUI charges, do not wait to seek legal help. The sooner you speak with an experienced attorney, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Avoid speaking with police or university officials without legal representation.
We recommend:
- Writing down all details of the incident while they are still fresh;
- Not discussing the case on social media;
- Keeping all documentation from the university and law enforcement;
- Calling Saadzoi Law as soon as possible.
Contact Saadzoi Law Today
We offer free consultations and are available 24/7 to take your call. Whether your child is facing disciplinary hearings at Villanova or criminal charges in Delaware County, Saadzoi Law is ready to fight for their rights and future.
Call (610) 566-5956 or visit saadzoilaw.com to schedule your free consultation today.
Let us help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.