Underage DUI Charges in Oklahoma
Getting arrested for driving while impaired (DWI) or driving while under the influence (DUI) in Oklahoma City as a minor is a serious offense. The penalties for both minors and adults can be severe. These penalties can include fines, jail time, or possibly even losing your driver’s license for several months, if not years.
When facing these charges, you must act quickly. The most important step, other than focusing on any injuries you may have sustained, is to seek legal counsel from a skilled Oklahoma City DUI defense attorney.
Our talented criminal defense lawyers at Cannon & Associates have multiple years of experience in helping clients avoid criminal convictions. They will ensure that you are treated fairly by the criminal justice system and will aim to minimize any criminal charges if not get rid of them together.
If you are a minor and have been arrested due to driving under the influence in Oklahoma City, then call Cannon & Associates today at 405-591-3935, for a free case evaluation with one of our many knowledgeable DUI attorneys in Oklahoma City.
What Are The Penalties for a Minor Driving Under The Influence?
For people under the age of 21, there is an underage DUI charge. Unlike other DUIs, a minor DUI charge will not result in prison time if you are found guilty. Instead, you will face a vast amount of community service to be completed if convicted.
As such, underage DUI charges come with lesser penalties than being convicted of a DUI as an adult. These penalties can vary depending on whether it’s your first offense or not. The penalties for each conviction can be seen below:
- First conviction– A minimum fine of $100, ranging upward to $500. At least 20 hours of community service, and completing a drunk driving treatment program.
- Second conviction–A minimum of 240 hours of community service. A fine ranging from $100 to $1,000. You may also have to complete a driver’s drinking program.
- Third or subsequent conviction–A minimum of 480 hours of community service. A fine of $100 to $2,000, and/ or completion of a treatment program and potential loss of their driving privileges for some time.
Although the penalties are less severe than those for adults, the requirements to be charged with an underage DUI are also lesser:
It is illegal for anyone to operate any type of vehicle if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. However, because the legal age to consume alcohol is 21, if the person driving is a minor, this limit is lowered to a BAC of 0.01%.
This is classed under the Oklahoma City “zero tolerance” law, which states that if you are a minor with any alcohol content in your blood, you will be charged with an underage DUI.
It is important to know your rights and retain an Oklahoma DUI Defense Attorney if you or a loved one is charged with DUI under 21 in Oklahoma. This is why it is essential to talk to an experienced Oklahoma City DUI defense attorney.
What Happens to My Driver’s License with DUI under 21?
In addition to criminal charges for DUI under 21, you also will face an administrative process with the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety “DPS” regarding your privilege to drive. Courts have determined that driving is a privilege granted by the State, not a right; therefore, the State has a lower burden to take your driving privileges than to convict you. You or your attorney must contact DPS within 15 days of being arrested for DUI under 21 to request an administrative hearing to have a chance to retain your license. A DPS officer will determine at the hearing whether the Board of Tests rules were complied with by the officer that arrested you for DUI under 21. Our firm will request and conduct the hearing on your behalf if you hire us within 15 days of your arrest for DUI under 21. Your license will be automatically suspended on the thirtieth day following your DUI under 21 arrest if you do not request an administrative hearing within 15 days of your arrest. This rule applies to every person and to every case unless a blood test was taken instead of a breath test or the refusal to take the State’s test. When a blood test is taken following an alleged DUI under 21, the 15-day clock runs once notice of testing over the legal limit is received.
Far-Reaching Consequences of DUI under 21
In addition to the potential for losing your license and a criminal conviction, DUI under 21 may have a negative impact on your employment and education. Many employers take DUI under 21 or DUI charges very seriously, which may result in you losing your job, if you do not take the proper steps to protect your job. Additionally, high schools, colleges, and universities frown upon students charged with DUI under 21 or DUI, which may subject you to disciplinary action or worse expulsion. It is important you discuss these issues or concerns with your chosen DUI defense attorney.
Protect Your Future
You need an experienced DUI defense attorney immediately if you or a loved one is facing DUI under 21 charges. The negative implications of a conviction for DUI under 21 cannot be overstated and it is crucial you retain experienced counsel to help protect your license and your future.
Contact Cannon & Associates Law Firm an Experienced DUI under 21 Defense Lawyer in Oklahoma
All criminal convictions must be taken with the utmost seriousness. Minor DUI charges are no different, so you should seek representation immediately after being charged. Seeking legal counsel will also give you the best possible chance of receiving a reduced sentence, or even getting your case dismissed altogether. Whether it’s personal injury, family law, or criminal defense lawyers that you need, we are here to serve you. We can provide you with decades of experience, skill, and endless resources. John Cannon is a Fierce Advocate for every client and will use his experience and respected reputation to do everything possible to reach the best possible outcome in your DUI or DUI under 21 case. A conviction for DUI or DUI under 21 may have long-lasting effects and penalties. John has been recognized as a Top 40 under 40 in Criminal Defense by the National Trial Lawyers Association. Contact CANNON & ASSOCIATES today if you have been charged with DUI under 21, Aggravated DUI, DUI, DWI, or APC charges in Oklahoma. CANNON & ASSOCIATES has an outstanding record of reaching the best possible outcome for hundreds of clients accused of a wide variety of criminal charges in Oklahoma, including DUI under 21. Call our law offices to speak to an experienced Oklahoma City DUI attorney now. You can get in touch with us by calling 405-591-3935.
