Houston Underage DWI Attorney

Drunk Driving Defense for Under 21 Drivers in TX

If you are a minor who has been arrested for DWI, or a parent whose child has been arrested, the stakes are very high. Underage drivers who are caught operating a motor vehicle with any amount of alcohol in their systems face stiff license suspension penalties, fines, and the possibility of a permanent criminal record. If you are serious about defending yourself or your child against these charges, enlist the help of a qualified DWI attorney.

Representing clients in Houston and across Harris County, Texas, we at The Law Offices of Jed Silverman may be able to help you in your time of need. We are aggressive litigators and skilled negotiators who fight for drivers’ rights in the face of misdemeanor and felony DWI charges.

Schedule a consultation with our Houston underage DWI attorney today. Call us at (713) 597-2221 or contact us online to discuss your case and take the first step toward a strong defense.

What Penalties May Be Imposed for Underage DWI in Texas?

In cases involving drivers under the age of 21, blood alcohol concentration (BAC) restrictions are much lower than for adults of legal drinking age. 

If you are under 21 years of age and caught with even a trace of alcohol in your system while operating a motor vehicle (as opposed to the .08% BAC limit imposed on adults), you may face a Class C misdemeanor, carrying with it such penalties as:

• Up to $500 fine
• 90-day driver's license suspension

In addition, your future employment and educational activities may be seriously hampered by the black mark of a criminal conviction on your record. Houston DWI lawyer Jed Silverman and our dedicated staff are adept at defending underage drivers across Texas against minors in possession (MIP) charges and other first-time offenses. We put our skill and experience to work for our clients to seek a dismissal of all charges and a clean criminal record.

How Do I Beat a DWI Charge in Texas?

There are various defense strategies that a Houston underage DWI lawyer can employ to challenge the charges against an underage driver. While every case is unique, common defenses to underage DWI charges may include:

• Lack of Probable Cause for the Traffic Stop: If an officer stopped the vehicle without a valid reason, any evidence obtained during the stop—such as alcohol tests—could be considered inadmissible.
• Inaccurate BAC Test Results: Breathalyzers can be affected by various factors, such as the officer’s failure to follow proper testing procedures, malfunctioning equipment, or even the driver’s medical conditions.
• No Evidence of Intoxication: If the prosecution lacks clear evidence of intoxication, such as slurred speech, unsteady movements, or the smell of alcohol, the defense attorney can argue that there was no indication that the defendant was impaired and should not have been charged with DWI.
• Improper Administration of Field Sobriety Tests: Field sobriety tests (FSTs) are often used to determine whether a driver is impaired. However, these tests are not always reliable, and the officer must follow specific protocols when administering them.
• Medical or Physical Conditions: Certain medical conditions or physical issues can mimic signs of intoxication, such as slurred speech, unsteady movements, or even the odor of alcohol on the breath.

Key Considerations in Underage DWI Cases

Zero Tolerance

Texas has a "zero tolerance" policy for underage drivers with any detectable alcohol in their system. Even if the BAC is below 0.08%, an underage driver can still be charged with DWI if their BAC is 0.01% or higher.

No Driving Privileges

In addition to criminal penalties, an underage DWI conviction may result in the loss of driving privileges, making it more challenging for the individual to commute to school or work.

Impact on Future Opportunities

A conviction for underage DWI can have a long-term impact on a person’s educational and career opportunities, as it may appear on criminal background checks.

Contact a Houston Underage DWI Attorney Today

If you or a loved one is facing underage DWI charges in Houston, it is critical to act quickly. The legal process can be complex and challenging, but with the help of a skilled Houston underage DWI lawyer, you can explore your defense options and work toward the best possible outcome.

A Houston underage DWI attorney will review the details of your case, investigate the evidence, and provide personalized legal strategies to defend against the charges. Whether you are facing your first offense or a repeat offense, the right legal representation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

Take this opportunity to secure the legal counsel of a firm that truly recognizes the importance of a strategic defense in the face of underage DWI charges. Contact The Law Offices of Jed Silverman today at (713) 597-2221.

Commonly Asked Questions

Can a First-Time DWI Be Dismissed in Texas?

Yes, a first-time DWI charge in Texas can potentially be dismissed under certain circumstances. Possible defenses include lack of probable cause for the traffic stop, improperly administered sobriety tests, insufficient evidence of intoxication, or issues with the breathalyzer or blood tests. Additionally, options like deferred adjudication (probation) may result in the case being dismissed after successfully completing terms like community service or alcohol education.

Does a DWI Stay on Your Record Forever in Texas?

A DWI conviction generally remains on your record forever in Texas unless you take specific action. If your charges were dismissed or you were acquitted, you may be eligible for expungement to remove the record. If you successfully completed a deferred adjudication program, you may request an order of non-disclosure, which seals the record from public access, though it doesn't erase it entirely. Expungement and non-disclosure are subject to certain conditions and eligibility requirements.