Juvenile DWI & Underage DUI Defense in Houston

Helping Young Clients and Their Families

Young drivers often make mistakes. However, when a minor’s actions lead to DUI or DWI charges, it can be incredibly stressful. A conviction, even for a young person, can impact the rest of their lives. With so much at stake, it’s critical to speak with a Houston underage DWI lawyer like those at our law firm.

Your attorney can help you understand the implications of a DUI conviction and fight for the best results possible in your case. With the stringent nature of Texas laws, you need someone who will stand by your side throughout the legal process.

At Enrique Ramirez Law, PC, we treat every client and their family with compassion and care. We possess a deep understanding of Texas DWI laws, drawing on over 36 years of experience. We promise to do everything possible to protect you or your loved one from a DUI or DWI conviction. What’s more, we offer free consultations, so you can get answers free of charge. Call 713-987-7705 to schedule a meeting with our Houston underage DWI lawyers today!

What Is Texas Law Regarding DWI for Minors?

Motor vehicle safety is one of the biggest priorities for Texas law enforcement. Keeping Texas streets safe is critical for everyone who uses the road and includes prosecuting individuals who drive while intoxicated. Texas law includes standards for underage individuals who drink and drive. In Houston, underage DUI and DWI refer to different criminal charges that can both lead to severe penalties.

What Qualifies as a Juvenile DWI or DUI

In Texas, adults who are arrested for drunk driving are typically charged with DWI, which is a criminal charge. A DWI conviction can lead to severe penalties, including license suspension, jail time, fines, and loss of other privileges. The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for an adult driver is 0.08%.

On the other hand, Texas has a zero-tolerance law when it comes to underage drivers, or those who are not yet 21. For a person who is not of legal drinking age, any amount of alcohol in their system can result in either DUI or DWI charges, depending on the circumstances of the case.

Whether you are being charged with DUI or DWI, a conviction can impact your life for years to come and should be taken very seriously. Please consult with a Houston underage DUI lawyer to learn what options you have following a DWI/DUI arrest.

The Difference Between a DWI and a DUI for an Underage Driver

The main differences between DWI and DUI charges for underage drivers are their age and the amount of alcohol in their system. First, the court will determine which charge to bring against you depending on your age. If you are under the age of 21, you may be charged with a lesser offense, such as a DUI, which carries lighter penalties. However, if you are between the ages of 18 and 21 and your BAC was 0.08% or higher, you may be tried as an adult would for DWI.

Understanding the unique aspects of your case can make all the difference as you try to defend yourself against a DUI conviction. Our DWI defense law firm can help you understand whether you are facing DUI or DWI charges and how to defeat them. We’ll do everything possible to protect your driver’s license, including applying for a hardship license. Contact us immediately to learn how we can assist with your suspected DWI or DUI.

What Are the Penalties for DUI or Juvenile DWI in Texas?

To discourage drivers from driving while intoxicated, Texas has stringent penalties that are enforced heavily in Harris County. While a DUI is relatively mild as a Class C misdemeanor, even these charges can impact the rest of your life. You’ll have a permanent mark on your criminal record that can be difficult to overcome, making it challenging to find employment, housing, and education.

DUI Under 17

As a person under 17 years of age who is arrested for DUI, you may have lighter penalties. For example, you could be charged with a Class C misdemeanor, which carries a fine of up to $500 and a license suspension of up to 180 days. You may also be required to complete mandatory community service.

While these penalties may not seem harsh, you may still have a permanent criminal record that follows you for years to come. Additionally, subsequent DUI offenses can result in increased license suspension and community service hours.

DUI Age 17 to 21

Individuals who are over age 17 may be tried as adults in certain cases, including DUI. Depending on your BAC, you could even face DWI charges.

A DUI between the ages of 17 and 21 is similar to a DUI for younger drivers. You’ll probably be charged a fine and have mandatory community service hours, depending on whether this is your first or subsequent DUI. You could also face license suspension, which can make it hard to get to school, work, medical appointments, and so on.

You’ll also have your DUI on your criminal record, which can be found by potential employers and landlords.

DWI Age 17 to 21

If you are between the ages of 17 and 21 and were arrested with a BAC of over 0.08%, you may be tried as an adult and have charges for a Class B misdemeanor, which is much more serious than a DUI. Furthermore, third offenses or subsequent DWIs can elevate your case to a third-degree felony.

Some of the legal penalties associated with a Class B misdemeanor include up to $2,000 in fines, up to 180 days in jail, license suspension of up to a year, and mandatory ignition interlock device use if you want an occupational license. Repeat offenses may result in increased penalties, such as fines, jail time, and license suspension.

Other Consequences of a DUI or DWI Conviction

It’s crucial to understand that the consequences of a DUI or DWI last beyond serving time in jail or community service. You could lose the opportunity to obtain professional licensing, gain admission to your preferred school, or secure employment or housing, not to mention the stigma of a criminal record and the strain it puts on your personal relationships.

When you’re facing a DUI arrest, things may look hopeless. However, please don’t give up! You can reach out to our legal team for help in defending against your charges and obtaining a fair sentencing.

What Strategies Can Help with My DUI Defense?

One of the most important things to remember when going through the Texas legal system is that you still have rights. Your chances of a favorable outcome increase exponentially when you hire an experienced Houston underage DWI lawyer to represent you. Your attorney can help you develop the right defense strategy for your unique case and will fight for you at every step of the process.

Defense Strategies

Some examples of defense strategies that can help young people get minimal sentencing include:

• Illegal traffic stop – Illegal traffic stops occur when police officers pull someone over without a reasonable cause
• Faulty testing equipment – Faulty equipment can lead to inaccurate results and unfair DUI arrests
• First DWI – Showing that this is your first offense can often lead to lower sentencing
• Mistaken identity – If the police officer arrested the wrong person and you weren’t driving, you could avoid conviction

Alternative Methods to Lower Sentencing

Many people hope to avoid the juvenile court system and settle matters through negotiation. While this is not always possible, we can sometimes work out a plan where you agree to community service or an alcohol awareness course to minimize your sentencing. These options are especially available to individuals facing a first DWI charge.

Our legal team is happy to discuss your options with you to minimize court costs and the stress of going to court. We can also represent you at your ALR hearing to protect your driving privileges.

Should You Hire Our Juvenile DWI & Underage DUI Defense Lawyers in Houston?

If you are a minor who is found driving under the influence, you may be at risk of driver’s license suspension, a jail sentence, and substantial fines. Underage drinking is taken very seriously in Texas and rightfully so. However, you still deserve to be treated fairly and to have a sentence that is appropriate for your circumstances.

Please call Enrique Ramirez Law, PC today to learn how our legal counsel and representation can help you avoid the maximum penalties for your DUI or DWI. Our Houston underage DWI lawyers will talk to you in terms you can understand and answer your questions with honesty and empathy. Call us today at 713-987-7705 to schedule your free, confidential consultation.