UNDERAGE DWI LAWYERS IN HOUSTON

Underage DUI Laws in Texas

Texas enforces a Zero Tolerance Law for drivers under 21 years old, meaning any detectable amount of alcohol in a minor’s system is illegal — even if they are not visibly impaired.

Unlike standard DWI laws, which require a BAC of 0.08% or higher, minors can face criminal charges for having any trace of alcohol in their system while driving.

Penalties vary based on age and offense number:

• Drivers Under 17
  • First Offense:
    • Class C misdemeanor
    • Fine up to $500
    • 20 to 40 hours of community service
    • Mandatory alcohol awareness course
    • Driver's license suspension: 60 to 180 days
• Drivers Aged 17 to 20
  • First Offense:
    • Class B misdemeanor
    • Fine up to $2,000
    • Up to 180 days in jail
    • Driver's license suspension: up to 1 year
    • Mandatory DWI education program
  • Second Offense:
    • Class A misdemeanor
    • Fine up to $4,000
    • 30 days to 1 year in jail
    • Driver's license suspension: 180 days to 18 months
  • Third Offense:
    • Third-degree felony
    • Fine up to $10,000
    • 2 to 10 years in state prison
    • Driver's license suspension: 180 days to 2 years

Defending Against Underage DUI Charges

An arrest doesn't equate to a conviction. At Turnbull Legal Group, we employ comprehensive defense strategies, including:

Challenging the Traffic Stop

A police officer must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If the initial stop was unlawful or lacked a valid reason, any evidence gathered — including breathalyzer results and officer observations — may be inadmissible in court. We thoroughly review dashcam footage, police reports, and witness statements to determine if the stop was justified.

Disputing Breathalyzer & Field Sobriety Tests

Breathalyzer machines and field sobriety tests are prone to errors and inconsistencies. The results can be challenged if a breathalyzer is not properly calibrated or a test is administered incorrectly. Similarly, nerves, medical conditions, or environmental factors can affect field sobriety tests, making them unreliable indicators of intoxication.

Questioning Blood Alcohol Testing Procedures

If blood or breath test evidence is a major factor in the case, we investigate whether proper testing protocols were followed. Mishandled samples, improper storage, or violations in the chain of custody can all render the results invalid.

Examining Police Conduct for Violations

Police officers must follow strict procedures when conducting a DWI stop, arrest, and interrogation. If an officer fails to read your Miranda rights, improperly collects evidence, or conducts an unlawful search, it may be possible to suppress key evidence and weaken the prosecution’s case.

Negotiating for Dismissal or Alternative Sentencing

For first-time underage offenders, it may be possible to negotiate alternative sentencing options to avoid a criminal conviction. These alternatives may include:

• Deferred adjudication (avoiding conviction by completing probation and education programs).
• Community service instead of license suspension.
• Alcohol awareness programs to demonstrate rehabilitation.
• Probation instead of jail time for those 17 or older.

At Turnbull Legal Group, we explore every possible defense strategy and legal option to protect your record, driving privileges, and future opportunities.

The Turnbull Legal Group Approach

When facing an underage DUI, your future is at stake. At Turnbull Legal Group, we take an aggressive and results-driven approach to defending minors and young adults accused of DUI or DWI in Texas.

Free Consultation & Case Evaluation

We start with a confidential consultation to discuss the details of your arrest. Every case is unique, and we take the time to explain your legal options, potential outcomes, and the best defense strategies for your specific situation.

Investigating Every Detail of Your Arrest

A DWI or DUI charge is not guaranteed to result in a conviction, and we scrutinize every piece of evidence to find flaws in the prosecution’s case. We analyze police reports, bodycam footage, field sobriety tests, and breathalyzer records to identify potential errors or rights violations.

Strategic Negotiations to Reduce or Dismiss Charges

Underage DUI cases often present opportunities for negotiation with prosecutors. If flaws in the case exist, we push for reduced charges or the dismissal of the case. In some cases, we negotiate pretrial diversion programs to help young offenders avoid a conviction that could follow them for life.

Aggressive Trial Preparation

We are fully prepared to fight the case in court if negotiations don't lead to a fair resolution. Our team builds a strong trial defense by challenging unreliable evidence, cross-examining witnesses, and presenting expert testimony when necessary.

At Turnbull Legal Group, we are committed to protecting the rights and futures of young individuals accused of DUI or DWI. Whether through negotiation or trial, our goal is to minimize the impact of the charges and help you move forward without a lasting criminal record.