If you or your child has been arrested for operating a motor vehicle in Austin while under the influence of alcohol (DUI), they may face an Under 21 DUI charge. A conviction could have life-altering consequences, but an attorney can fight to protect you from these penalties.
An Austin Under 21 DUI lawyer from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg will work to reduce or dismiss the charges you face. Our firm has a track record of successfully defending clients from DUI and DWI charges, and we’re ready to defend you, too.
The Difference Between DWI and Under 21 DUI
Texas Penal Code § 49.04 explains that it is illegal for any driver to have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or higher while operating a motor vehicle. Anyone suspected of driving with a BAC of .08% or more will be arrested and charged with DWI.
However, Texas designates a category of criminal offense for motorists who are less than 21 years old and have any amount of alcohol in their system. Motorists of any age who are facing a charge of DUI or DWI may benefit from the experience of an Austin criminal defense attorney.
Possible Legal Penalties for an Under 21 DUI Conviction in Austin
Age matters when determining what legal penalties you face for a DUI conviction. The state of Texas holds older individuals more accountable for driving with alcohol in their system. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) explains that If someone is convicted of Under 21 DUI at the age of 17 or younger, they face:
- A $500 fine
- Up to 40 hours of community service
- Mandatory alcohol education course
- Two-month license suspension
Penalties generally increase in severity if you have prior convictions for Under 21 DUI. If you are 17 years or older and have a BAC of .08% or greater, you are likely facing penalties beyond those listed here.
If you are over the age of 17 but still not of legal age to consume alcohol, you may face:
- From 3 to 180 days in jail
- A fine of up to $2,000
- Suspension of your driver’s license for 90 days to 1 year
How Else Will an Under 21 DUI Conviction in Austin Affect My Life?
Depending on your age and ability to expunge an Under 21 DUI conviction, the charges you face could have a devastating effect. Even if you are under the age of 18, a conviction may cause serious non-legal consequences including:
- A criminal record: Even though most Under 21 DUI convictions are misdemeanors, the stigma of a DUI on your record can be limiting.
- Mental health problems: Being convicted can take a psychological and emotional toll.
- Increased risk of future legal problems: When you sustain one Under 21 DUI conviction, you increase the chances of facing even more serious legal penalties in future criminal proceedings.
An Austin Under 21 DUI lawyer from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg will explain exactly what legal and non-legal penalties you face.
How a Lawyer from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg Will Advocate for You
The attorneys at the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg understand that mistakes happen, and we believe that a single mistake should not have the capability of derailing a young person’s life.
We’ll defend you or your child from an Under 21 DUI charge by:
- Determining if the traffic stop was lawful: An unlawful traffic stop may mean an unlawful arrest. If we can invalidate the traffic stop, we may invalidate the Under 21 DUI charge.
- Weighing the evidence: We’ll consider whether Breathalyzer results, a blood test, or other evidence exists in your case. This may affect our legal approach.
- Considering plea offers: Reduced charges is a positive outcome for many defendants facing Under 21 DUI charges. We’ll negotiate for the strongest plea offer we can, then discuss the merits of that offer with you.
- Defending you in court, if necessary: If the best option for you is to pursue a not-guilty verdict, we will defend you in court.
Our attorneys and paralegals will also handle the administrative responsibilities of your case. From completing paperwork to managing appearance dates and preparing you for legal proceedings, we’ll be your advocates and your legal representatives.
Why Choose the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg as Your DUI Attorneys?
Attorney Randall B. Isenberg has more than 30 years of experience in the legal arena. He is a former State District Trial Judge and Chief Felony Prosecutor. He understands criminal law in every facet, and our team will use this experience in your favor—however we possibly can.
Former Clients Explain the Benefits of Hiring Our Firm
Our former clients testify to the benefits of hiring the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg:
- “Simply the best criminal defense lawyer in Texas! We hired him to represent our family on a felony case that not only could have had my father behind bars for the rest of his life but could have taken the most vital member of our family from us. From day one he guided us, advised us and walked with us until the very end. He was genuine and cared for our family’s well being and always represented us having our best interest at heart.” – Nuria Garcia, former client
You can review more testimonials from our satisfied clients to get an idea of what to expect when we represent you.
Call the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg Today for a Free Consultation
DUI and DWI defense is a key practice area for our firm. Our attorneys work daily to get positive case results for clients like you. With an Austin Under 21 DUI lawyer from our firm on your side, you can have peace of mind about the legal process.
Call the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg today for your free consultation.
