San Diego Underage DUI Attorney
Facing an Underage DUI? Get Help Now, Call (619) 930-5490
In California, any individual under the age of 21 is not permitted to drive with any measurable amount of alcohol in their system. There are three charges that an under-21 individual can face. The charges depend on your blood alcohol level: (1) Zero Tolerance, driving with a measurable alcohol of .01% or higher; (2) Under 21 DUI, driving with a blood alcohol between .05% and .08%; and (3) A full DUI whenever your blood alcohol level is .08% or higher.
To speak with an experienced San Diego underage DUI lawyer, give us a call at (619) 930-5490 or contact us online today.
Understanding Underage DUI Laws in San Diego
Being charged with an underage DUI in San Diego can have serious consequences for your future. It's important to understand the laws and penalties associated with underage drinking and driving in California. Our team of experienced lawyers at The Law Offices of Casey & Angelos can provide you with the legal guidance and representation you need to navigate through this challenging time.
Key points to consider about underage DUI laws in San Diego:
- Legal Drinking Age: Legal drinking age in California is 21.
- Zero Tolerance: Zero tolerance for drivers under 21 with a BAC of 0.01% or higher.
- Penalties: Possible penalties include license suspension, fines, and mandatory alcohol education programs.
- Impact on Future: Impact on college admissions, scholarships, and future employment opportunities.
Our team is proficient in delivering advice specific to San Diego, ensuring your rights are represented and that you are thoroughly informed of the long-term impacts. Don't face an underage DUI charge alone. Contact our San Diego law firm today to protect your future.
Consequences of an Underage DUI Conviction
Even a first-time underage DUI can lead to serious repercussions that follow a young person for years. The potential penalties for an underage DUI in California include:
- Immediate driver's license suspension for one year
- Fines and court fees
- Mandatory DUI education programs
- Probation
- Increased auto insurance rates or cancellation
- Potential jail time if charged under standard DUI statutes
- Permanent criminal record
Beyond the legal penalties, an underage DUI can impact college admissions, employment opportunities, scholarships, and professional licensing. A committed San Diego underage DUI lawyer works to minimize these penalties and protect every aspect of a young client's future.
Alternatives to Conviction
In some cases, alternatives to a DUI conviction are available for young drivers. These may include:
- Diversion programs: Completing an education or treatment program to avoid a conviction.
- Deferred entry of judgment: Pleading guilty or no contest but having judgment delayed, allowing for dismissal upon successful completion of requirements.
- Reduced charges: Negotiating for lesser offenses such as reckless driving ("wet reckless") that carry fewer long-term consequences.
Steps to Take Immediately After an Underage DUI Arrest
Facing an underage DUI charge can be frightening, but taking the right steps immediately after an arrest can make a significant difference:
- Request a DMV hearing within 10 days: Protect the ability to drive.
- Hire an experienced San Diego underage DUI attorney: Early representation can lead to stronger defense strategies.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone other than your lawyer: Statements made to others can be used against you.
- Gather documents and evidence: Keep copies of the police report, court documents, and any communication from the DMV.
- Prepare for court dates: Missing a hearing can result in additional penalties.
Protect Your Future with an Experienced Underage DUI Lawyer in San Diego
Being charged with underage DUI can have serious consequences that can affect your future. It is important to have an experienced and knowledgeable lawyer by your side to navigate the legal process and protect your rights. At The Law Offices of Casey & Angelos, our team of skilled attorneys has extensive knowledge in underage DUI cases and is dedicated to providing the best possible defense for our clients in San Diego and the surrounding areas.
Why choose us for your underage DUI legal representation:
- Comprehensive Knowledge: Our attorneys have extensive understanding and experience in handling underage DUI cases. We understand the complexities of the law and can effectively build a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific situation.
- Personalized Attention: We believe in providing personalized attention to each client. We will take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and keep you informed throughout the legal process.
- Strong Advocacy: Our team is dedicated to fighting for your rights and achieving the best possible outcome for your case. We will aggressively advocate for you in court, negotiating with prosecutors and presenting compelling arguments on your behalf.
- Knowledge of Local Laws: As a local law firm, we have in-depth knowledge of the San Diego legal system and the specific laws and regulations related to underage DUI. This allows us to provide you with the most effective legal representation.
- Compassionate Support: We understand the stress and anxiety that come with facing criminal charges. Our team is committed to providing compassionate support and guidance throughout the legal process, ensuring that you feel supported every step of the way.
Additionally, our firm prides itself on its community involvement and commitment to ensuring San Diego remains a safe place for young individuals. We regularly host informational sessions to educate the public about the severe consequences of underage drinking and driving, reinforcing the importance of making informed, legal choices behind the wheel.
To speak with an experienced San Diego underage DUI lawyer, give us a call at (619) 930-5490 or contact us online today.
AWARDS & ASSOCIATIONS
Since the establishment of this law firm in 1998, we have strived to provide our clients with the highest quality representation and a level of customer service that is unparalleled by any firm anywhere.
Commonly Asked Questions About Underage DUI in San Diego
What should I do if I am pulled over for suspected DUI in San Diego?
If you are pulled over for suspected DUI in San Diego, it is crucial to remain calm and respectful to the officers. Avoid making sudden movements, provide your identification when asked, and refrain from admitting any guilt or making statements without a lawyer present. It's your right to remain silent and request to speak with an attorney before answering any questions beyond basic identification details.
Our FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 619-930-5490 today!
-
I was not drunk. Can I be charged with DUI for smoking marijuana or taking prescription medications?If you were arrested for DUI but didn’t have alcohol in your system, you can still be charged with DUI. There are a number different charges associated with misdemeanor and felony DUI. You can be charged with an (f) count if you consumed any intoxicating drugs, regardless of whether they are illegal or prescription. But, if you were under the influence of both alcohol and drugs, then you can be charged with an (e) count for driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.
-
Aren’t the police supposed to read me my Miranda rights?It seems like common sense that an officer must read you your Miranda rights. Although this is true in a situation where you are being interrogated, for purposes of DUI, you don’t have that same right. Many times an officer will ask you questions prior to administering field sobriety tests and placing you under arrest. These questions have been classified as “pre-investigatory” questions and are not subject to Miranda. Therefore, it is important you speak with an experience DUI Defense Firm to know whether or not the failure to read you your rights will affect your case.
-
I was involved in an accident and someone was injured. Will I be charged with a Felony?Maybe. You can be charged with Felony DUI whenever anyone other than yourself is injured. Even if the injuries were to a friend and their injuries are minor, you can still be charged with a felony. Penalties for a Felony DUI can be severe because your can face time in prison.
