Bellevue Underage DUI Lawyer

Something as seemingly small as a DUI charge can have a lasting impact on an underage driver’s life. A conviction can affect the future, rights, and freedoms of a young person. When these situations arise, guidance from an experienced Bellevue underage DUI lawyer can make all the difference. With so much on the line, you need effective legal support.

If you or your child has been arrested and charged with a DUI, it is in their interest to enlist the services of a knowledgeable lawyer. Since 2005, Peters Associates, LLC, has been working to reduce or even dismiss DUI charges for underage individuals in the Bellevue area. Let us review the details of your case and help determine the right path to take in your child’s defense. Our assistance can prevent devastating consequences.

What Counts as an Underage DUI in Washington?

In Washington state, when an individual is below the legal drinking age of 21, they can be charged with a DUI if their blood alcohol content level (BAC) is 0.02% or higher. This threshold is lower than that for of-age drivers, which is 0.08%. The penalties for being convicted of such a charge can be severe and affect every area of a person’s life.

There are also cases in which an underage individual may be charged with a DUI as an adult. This can happen when their BAC is 0.08% or higher. This means that the standard penalties for a misdemeanor DUI or a felony DUI can still apply, even if the individual who is convicted is under the age of 21. Just because an individual is younger does not necessarily mean they will be treated differently under the law. Their penalties depend on the severity of the case.

Peters Associates, LLC: Defending You in an Underage DUI Case

The attorneys at Peters Associates, LLC, have the experience and knowledge required to fight DUI charges. We have worked with many DUI clients over the years and know how to effectively defend them. We also understand the unique challenges that may arise in cases involving underage drivers.

Underage DUI allegations can be complicated legal matters, and without the assistance of an attorney, the chances of a conviction can increase immensely. The attorneys at Peters Associates, LLC, know how to strategically plan your defense so that it may hold up in court. From the moment you contact us, we begin forming a strategy to successfully defend you or your minor child in a courtroom or in negotiations with the prosecution.

These can be incredibly difficult legal matters to deal with, but you don’t have to navigate them on your own. We are here to help.

Consequences of an Underage DUI in Bellevue, WA

When an underage person is convicted of a DUI in Bellevue, Washington, they typically face a simple misdemeanor charge unless their BAC is 0.08% or higher. While these charges and their penalties are often less severe than a gross misdemeanor charge, they can still come with devastating consequences, which require a strong defense. If convicted of a simple misdemeanor DUI charge, an individual might face the following penalties:

• Up to 90 days in jail or a juvenile detention facility if the individual is below the age of 18
• A fine of up to $1,000
• A maximum probation sentence of up to two years

These penalties can all have severe impacts on the future, finances, and freedoms of the underage person in question. Besides criminal penalties, an underage individual may face college application denials, lost job opportunities, and the suspension of their driver’s license.

FAQs

Speak With a Trusted Underage DUI Lawyer Today

If you or your child have been charged with an underage DUI, you need the legal support and guidance of an underage DUI lawyer. At Peters Associates, LLC, we can walk you through every stage of the legal process, work with you to build a solid defense and provide the support you need as we fight for the most positive outcome possible. Contact our offices today to speak with one of our lawyers and get started with a consultation.