Santa Monica DUI Lawyer

Underage DUI Charges

If you are under the age of 21 and operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .01% or greater, you could be charged with DUI. This is part of our state's "zero tolerance" law, where unlike traditional DUI charges, you do not actually need to be under the influence to be charged. You simply need to have consumed a measurable amount of alcohol before driving.

Contact a Santa Monica DUI attorney for skilled defense against your underage DUI charges.

The zero tolerance law states that if you are under 21 years of age and suspected of a DUI offense, you are automatically assumed to have consented to a preliminary alcohol screening, or a breath, blood, or urine test that is used to determine BAC. If you submit to the test and it is found that your BAC is .01% or above, you will face a 1-year drivers' license suspension, or a 1-year delay in obtaining a drivers' license if you do not already have one. If you refuse to take any manner of DUI test, you will face a license suspension of up to 3 years, depending on whether or not you possess prior convictions. It is advised that you contact a Santa Monica criminal defense lawyer if you or a loved one has been arrested for underage DUI, as an attorney can significantly increase the possibility of a successful outcome to your case. Contact us if you reside in Malibu, Westwood, and Venice, as we can help you in those communities as well.

Consequences of Underage DUI Conviction

If you are convicted of underage DUI, you could be facing severe consequences outside of your criminal penalties. A conviction may reduce your ability to apply for or remain enrolled in college. You may have difficulty obtaining the employment you desire. You may also be unable to successfully apply for a home or vehicle loan. At Lessem & Newstat, we understand the high stakes involved in underage DUI cases. We will provide you with aggressive and experienced legal defense that is intended to effect the reduction of your charges, or a full acquittal.