Austin Underage DUI Attorney

Facing DUI charges as a teenager can feel like the end of the world, but it doesn’t have to be. The legal system is complex, and the stakes are high, with potential consequences that could affect a young person’s education, career, and future opportunities. Understanding your rights and having the right legal support can make all the difference.

As Austin’s oldest personal injury law firm, Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson LLP is committed to helping individuals and families affected by underage DUI cases. Our decades of trial experience and reputation for handling significant cases enable us to approach these sensitive situations with care and diligence. Recognized in publications like Super Lawyers and Best Law Firms, we strive to protect the rights of those involved and work toward achieving the best possible outcomes.

Understanding Texas Underage DUI Laws

Texas enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21. This means that if there’s any detectable amount of alcohol in an underage driver’s system, it can lead to a DUI charge. Unlike the standard legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit of 0.08% for adults, minors can face charges with any measurable BAC. 

Penalties for Underage DUI in Texas

The consequences of an underage DUI conviction vary based on the driver’s age and prior offenses.

• Drivers Under 17: A first-time offense is classified as a Class C misdemeanor, which may result in fines up to $500, 20 to 40 hours of community service, mandatory alcohol awareness courses, and a driver’s license suspension ranging from 60 to 180 days. 
• Drivers Aged 17 to 20: Penalties are more severe and can include fines up to $2,000, jail time up to 180 days, mandatory DWI education programs, and a driver’s license suspension for up to one year. 

These penalties can escalate with subsequent offenses, leading to longer license suspensions, higher fines, and increased jail time.

Additional Consequences

Beyond legal penalties, an underage DUI conviction can have lasting effects on various aspects of a young person’s life:

• Academic Opportunities: Some educational institutions may deny admission or scholarships to students with criminal records.
• Employment Prospects: A criminal conviction can hinder job opportunities, particularly in fields requiring clean records.
• Insurance Rates: Auto insurance premiums often increase significantly after a DUI conviction, adding financial strain.

Trying to handle DUI charges against a young driver can be emotionally and legally challenging. This is where an underage DUI lawyer comes in to help navigate the charges and help prevent a mistake from impacting the rest of the young driver’s life. An Austin underage lawyer specializing in DUI defense can evaluate the specifics of the case and work towards minimizing the impact on the young driver’s future. 

How an Attorney Can Help With Teen DUI Charges

When you first get your license, the only thing you can focus on is how many places you can go to without needing a ride from your parents. Unfortunately, a license also comes with responsibility, and when you make the mistake of drinking and driving, it can have severe consequences. Facing DUI charges as a teen can be overwhelming. The legal and personal consequences can significantly impact your future, affecting your education, career opportunities, and reputation. That’s why partnering with an experienced underage DUI attorney from Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson is essential to protecting not just your rights but your future.

Protecting Your Teen’s Future

When an underage driver is convicted of a DUI, it can have long-lasting effects, including: 

• Loss of Driving Privileges: Teens may face license suspension or restrictions, limiting their independence.
• Criminal Record: A DUI can result in a permanent mark on a teen’s record, affecting college admissions and job prospects.
• Increased Insurance Rates: Auto insurance premiums can skyrocket, creating financial strain for families.

By working with our Austin underage DUI lawyers, you gain advocates dedicated to minimizing these impacts.

Navigating Complex Laws

Texas DUI laws are strict, especially for drivers under age drivers. At Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson, our team has a deep understanding of these laws and can identify potential defenses, such as improper testing procedures or lack of evidence. Our expertise ensures your teen’s rights are protected every step of the way.

Building a Strong Defense

Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson’s legal team takes a personalized approach, investigating every detail of the case. We negotiate with prosecutors, seek reduced penalties, and explore alternatives like education programs to avoid convictions.

Protecting Your Teen’s Future With Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson LLP

At Byrd Davis Alden & Henrichson, we understand how daunting an underage DUI case can be for families. As Austin’s oldest personal injury law firm, we combine decades of courtroom experience with a commitment to preserving the rights and futures of our clients. Our inclusion in Best Law Firms and Super Lawyers speaks to the diligence and personalized care we bring to every case. If your teen is facing DUI charges, we can guide you through the legal complexities and pursue the best possible outcome for their future.

Texas’s strict DUI laws for minors can have lasting repercussions, including license suspension, heightened insurance costs, and a criminal record that could hinder academic and career opportunities. Our goal is to minimize these impacts by building a robust defense, ensuring your teen’s rights are upheld, and exploring all possible avenues to reduce penalties or seek alternatives. Let us be your ally in protecting what matters most. Contact us today at (512) 454-3751 or via our contact form.