Are you facing DUI charges as a minor in Dallas, Texas? If so, you should contact a Dallas DUI lawyer as soon as possible. The right attorney can give you the best chance at a favorable outcome for your DUI case.
It’s illegal everywhere in the U.S. to drive while impaired by alcohol or any other substance. But in Texas, there are special regulations targeting minors who disobey this law.
Texas has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to underage drinking and driving. The term “driving under the influence” (DUI) is specifically reserved for this offense. A DUI occurs when someone under 21 with any amount of alcohol in their body operates any motor vehicle or watercraft. This applies even if the alcohol does not technically impair them.
Minors can face DUI charges even if the alcohol level in their blood is less than 0.08 percent. If the level is 0.08 percent or higher, or if they are under the influence of any illegal drugs, they can face DWI charges with harsher consequences. DWI, a similar charge, stands for driving while intoxicated. Some courts will upgrade a DUI charge to a DWI charge if there is reason to believe that a driver’s physical or mental abilities have become compromised.
You should take any DUI charge seriously. If you are a minor charged with a DUI, or you are responsible for such a minor, trusted legal representation is essential. Don’t wait to contact the Law Offices of Mark T. Lassiter to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our Texas DWI lawyers. Please call (214) 845-7007 now.
Penalties for a Texas DUI
If you’re charged with a DUI in Texas, the penalties can vary depending on your age and the severity of the offense. Under the Texas Alcohol Beverage Code, an underage drinker under 17 gets treated differently than one aged 17 to 20.
First-time DUI for minor under the age of 17 (Class C misdemeanor)
- Fine of up to $500
- Attend an alcohol awareness class
- Suspension of driver’s license for 60 days
- 20 to 40 hours of community service
Second DUI for minor under the age of 17 (Class C misdemeanor)
- Fine of up to $500
- Attend an alcohol awareness class
- Suspension of driver’s license for 120 days
- 40 to 60 hours of community service
DUI for minor-aged 17 to 20/Third DUI for minor under the age of 17 (Class B misdemeanor)
- Fine of $500 to $2,000
- Potential for 180 days in jail (for ages 17-20)
- Suspension of driver’s license for 180 days
- The offense is not eligible for deferred adjudication (probation)
A criminal record can affect education and employment opportunities and increase insurance rates.
Why You Need the Law Offices of Mark T. Lassiter for Your DUI
As a minor or the parent of a minor, facing a DUI charge can feel frightening and overwhelming. It’s often a stressful ordeal with lasting consequences. However, working with a veteran defense lawyer can help resolve the situation and protect your child’s future.
Trying to find your way through the complex legal process on your own would leave you without the resources you need. The legal team at the Law Offices of Mark T. Lassiter has a comprehensive knowledge of Texas DUI laws to cover every detail in your defense. We take on the arduous work involved in devising the best strategy for your case to minimize the penalties as much as possible.
If a DUI case gets mishandled, it can affect a minor’s criminal record and result in lengthy license suspensions. With the Law Offices of Mark T. Lassiter in your corner, you’re getting dedicated service and years of quality experience. Seek our legal assistance right away, and let us fight to keep the DUI from causing irreparable harm so you can move forward with your life.
Defending a DUI in Dallas
Under the Texas laws for underage drinking, authorities don’t have to prove intoxication or impairment. They simply need to show that the minor had a detectable amount of alcohol in their system. The DUI statute does not stipulate how law enforcement must detect the presence of alcohol. That means a police officer could arrest a driver under 21 just by smelling alcohol on them.
Under Texas’ implied consent law, drivers must submit to lawful BAC tests when pulled over for suspected DUI offenses. You can refuse a breath or blood test for alcohol, but your refusal can serve as evidence against you. There are other potential consequences, too. If you refuse, you must sign a statement acknowledging that you understand the consequences. Additionally, the police will obtain a search warrant for your blood-alcohol content. Your driver’s license will also be automatically suspended for 180 days.
These strict laws can make it difficult to fight a DUI. There are instances when the proper legal processes are not followed. It’s possible to contest whether the officer had probable cause to make the traffic stop. Another factor for consideration is whether there actually was a detectable amount of alcohol in the minor’s system. Breathalyzers can provide inaccurate readings if they malfunction or get used improperly.
To proceed with these defense options, you must request an administrative hearing within 15 days of the incident. Without this request, there is an automatic suspension of your driver’s license. Joining forces with a skilled criminal justice lawyer is beneficial for an administrative hearing. This is because a lawyer knows how to effectively challenge the state’s evidence and pursue a possible deferred adjudication.
Speak to a Dallas DUI Lawyer
Texas DUI punishments are stringent, and they demand a tough legal response. The Law Offices of Mark T. Lassiter understands your current situation and the possible consequences of a conviction. We’re here to defend your rights and fight for your interests.
To learn more about our approach to DUI cases and how we can preserve your future, please call (214) 845-7007. You can also complete our online form today to schedule a confidential case review and consultation.
Related Posts:
