Texas has a zero-tolerance policy for driving under the influence of alcohol by a minor (DUI). For drivers under the age of 21, any amount of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) that shows up on a field sobriety test allows an officer to perform a DUI arrest.
If you are under 21 and charged with DUI, then you may be facing serious consequences. These charges may not only impede on your present life, but they can also impact your future. To name a few examples, you could have trouble getting into the university you want, having the job of your choice, and receiving a loan from the bank for a house or apartment.
Everyone who is charged with a DUI, or any crime for that matter, is entitled to legal representation. A Farmers Branch under 21 DUI lawyer from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg may be able to help you defend your rights.
For a free consultation on your case with a member of our team, call the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg today at (214) 696-9253. Our lead attorney, Randall B. Isenberg, has over 30 years of legal experience, including careers as both a prosecutor and a state district judge. With this background, it is our top priority to serve our clients with professionalism and care.
The Difference Between DUI and DWI
It is possible that you have heard DUI and DWI used interchangeably. However, Texas law differentiates between these two terms. DUI stands for “driving under the influence of alcohol by a minor.” DWI stands for “driving while intoxicated.”
If someone is charged with DWI, it typically means that they are 21 years of age or older, and their BAC was over the legal limit, which is 0.08%. Alternatively, only minors can be charged with DUI, as their BAC should be at 0.0%.
It is important to note that the arresting officer has the discretion to charge a driver under the age of 21 with a DWI instead of a DUI. A first-offense DWI, which starts as a Class B misdemeanor, can be a much harsher penalty than a DUI.
The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg also defends people charged with underage DWI and may be able to assist you with this type of case.
Driving Under the Influence Punishments
Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code §106.041 dictates that if a minor operates in public while having alcohol in their system, they have committed a Class C misdemeanor. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TXDOT), some of the punishments for a first-time DUI offense may include:
- A maximum $500 fine
- A 60-day license suspension
- 20 to 40 hours of mandatory community service
- Required alcohol awareness education courses
Possession of Alcohol
An under 21 DUI is not the only charge a minor may face when being stopped for alcohol use. Having the alcohol in the vehicle may add a minor in possession of alcohol charge to your arrest. Possible penalties of this charge include:
- A maximum $500 fine
- A 30- to 180-day license suspension
- 8 to 40 hours of mandatory community services hours
- Required alcohol awareness education courses
Other alcohol-related offenses may include soliciting alcohol, attempting to purchase alcohol, or fake identification as someone who is over 21 years of age. Punishments of these offenses may vary.
You do not need to face DUI or DWI charges on your own. A Farmers Branch under 21 DUI lawyer from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg may be able to guide you through the legal process.
To learn more about your legal options in a free case review with a member of our team, call the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg today at (214) 696-9253.
Possible Outcomes for Your Case
Some possible outcomes for an under 21 DUI case are:
- Dismissal and no punishment
- A plea deal (in this case, your charges or punishments may be reduced)
- Probation without jail time
- A conviction with all the relevant penalties
The Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg can help you figure out a strategy for your case when we represent you. Our team can discuss the possible outcomes of your case honestly and confidentially and provide you with legal advice throughout our work together.
How a Lawyer Can Help You with Your Case
Being charged with an offense like a DUI can be very overwhelming. Fortunately, the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg may be able to come in and assist you. Some of the services we offer in these types of cases include, but are not limited to:
- Meeting court and other paperwork deadlines
- Gathering evidence in your defense, such as witness statements
- Investigating your arrest to make sure the police followed all procedures and had probable cause to stop you
- Challenging the prosecution’s evidence against you if any technical errors or mishandling exists
- Answering questions you may have during the process
- Working to get your charges reduced or dismissed
- Preparing you for your day in trial, if necessary
The list of these services is not exhaustive. Once you meet with your defense lawyer and discuss your case, they can give you a clearer idea of what to expect in your case.
Get Assistance from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg Today
Under 21 DUI charges can put a strain on you and your family’s life, both mentally and financially. Do not go through this grueling process alone. A Farmers Branch under 21 DUI lawyer from the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg may be able to help you build your case and defend you against these charges.
For more information in a free case review with our client intake team, call the Law Offices of Randall B. Isenberg today at (214) 696-9253.
