El Paso Underage DUI Lawyer

Many young adults and teenagers experiment with alcohol in Texas, and it is not uncommon for underage individuals to make the poor decision to drive after consuming alcohol. If you are under the age of 21 and have been arrested for drinking and driving, you could be facing serious consequences.

At Joseph Veith Law, we are committed to helping young people and their families navigate the Texas criminal justice system and work to minimize the consequences of an arrest. Our El Paso underage DUI attorney can put his experience to work for you.

Call Joseph Veith Law today at (915) 600-6045 or contact us online to schedule a free and confidential consultation with our underage DUI lawyer in El Paso.

Legal BAC Limit for Minors in Texas

In Texas, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to consume or possess alcohol. This is known as the state’s “zero-tolerance” policy. When it comes to driving, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for adults and 0.04% for commercial drivers. However, for individuals under the age of 21, the legal BAC limit is 0.00%, meaning that any amount of alcohol in their system is illegal.

What Happens to Minors Who Get DUIs?

When a minor is arrested for drinking and driving, they will face two separate legal processes: an administrative process with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) and a criminal court process. If the minor is under the age of 17, they will be subject to the state’s juvenile justice system. If the minor is 17 years old, they will be treated as an adult and will be subject to criminal court proceedings.

Underage DUI Penalties

The penalties for an underage DUI conviction in Texas depend on the minor’s BAC at the time of the arrest and whether they have any prior DUIs on their record.

First-time DUI offenses with a BAC under 0.08% are punishable by:

• Up to a $500 fine
• Between 20 and 40 hours of community service
• Between 12 and 18 hours of alcohol education
• A 60-day driver’s license suspension

First-time DUI offenses with a BAC of 0.08% or higher are punishable by:

• Up to a $2,000 fine
• Between 20 and 40 hours of community service
• Between 12 and 18 hours of alcohol education
• A 60-day driver’s license suspension
• Between 3 and 180 days in jail

Second-time DUI offenses with a BAC of 0.08% or higher are punishable by:

• Up to a $4,000 fine
• Between 40 and 60 hours of community service
• A 120-day driver’s license suspension
• Between 30 days and 1 year in jail

Third-time DUI offenses with a BAC of 0.08% or higher are punishable by:

• Up to a $10,000 fine
• Between 40 and 60 hours of community service
• A 120-day driver’s license suspension
• Between 2 and 10 years in jail

In addition to these penalties, a minor convicted of a DUI will also have a criminal record, which can make it difficult to get into college, find housing, or get a job. That is why it is important to retain an experienced underage DUI lawyer in El Paso if you or your child has been arrested for DUI.

Understanding the Long-Term Consequences of Underage DUIs

Receiving a DUI as a minor can have far-reaching implications beyond immediate legal penalties. It's crucial to recognize that a conviction can impact various aspects of a young person's life, including educational opportunities, employment prospects, and personal relationships. At Joseph Veith Law, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge about these potential consequences.

Here are some long-term effects that minors may face after a DUI conviction:

• Academic Consequences: Many colleges and universities conduct background checks during the admissions process. A DUI on record may hinder acceptance into desired institutions.
• Employment Challenges: Certain professions may require a clean driving record or background check, making it harder to secure jobs in competitive fields.
• Increased Insurance Rates: A DUI conviction can lead to higher auto insurance premiums, impacting a minor's financial independence.
• Social Stigma: The label of having a DUI can affect personal relationships and social standing among peers.

Understanding these potential outcomes is essential for making informed decisions. Our dedicated team at Joseph Veith Law is here to provide guidance and support throughout the legal process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance for a positive resolution.

Defending Underage DUI Charges in Texas

Just because you were arrested for underage drinking and driving does not mean that you are guilty. In fact, there are several effective defenses that can be used to challenge DUI charges in Texas.

Some of the most common defenses to DUI charges include:

• The traffic stop was illegal
• The breathalyzer or blood test was inaccurate
• You were not the one driving the vehicle
• You were not read your Miranda rights
• You did not actually “operate” the vehicle

Your El Paso underage DUI attorney will review the facts of your case and help you build a strong defense strategy. If the evidence against you was obtained illegally, your attorney may be able to get the charges against you reduced or dismissed.

Understanding Your Rights: The Importance of Legal Representation

Facing DUI charges as a minor can be an overwhelming experience, but it's crucial to remember that you have rights. Engaging a skilled attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. At Joseph Veith Law, we believe that every client deserves personalized attention and a robust defense strategy tailored to their unique circumstances.

Here are some key reasons why having legal representation is vital:

• Expert Guidance: Our experienced attorneys understand the nuances of Texas DUI laws and can provide you with the best advice on how to proceed.
• Protection Against Harsh Penalties: We work diligently to minimize the potential consequences of a DUI charge, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
• Negotiation Skills: Our team is skilled in negotiating plea deals that can lead to reduced charges or alternative sentencing options, helping you avoid a permanent mark on your record.
• Emotional Support: We recognize that this is a challenging time for you and your family. Our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way.

Don't face your underage DUI charges alone. Contact Joseph Veith Law for a free consultation, and let us help you protect your future.

Call Our El Paso Underage DUI Lawyer Today

If you or your child has been arrested for underage drinking and driving in Texas, you should speak to an experienced underage DUI lawyer in El Paso as soon as possible. At Joseph Veith Law, we have the skills and resources to effectively represent you in court and will fight aggressively to protect your rights.

Call Joseph Veith Law today at (915) 600-6045 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our underage DUI attorney in El Paso. We can help you understand the penalties you are facing and the possible defenses that may be available to you.