Manhattan Beach Underage DUI Attorney

Ready to Defend You or Your Child

Being charged with an underage DUI can be overwhelming for both young drivers and their families. California has some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation, and when it comes to underage drinking and driving, the standards are even tougher. If you or your child has been accused of driving under the influence under the age of 21, you need an experienced Manhattan Beach underage DUI lawyer to protect your future, driving privileges, and reputation.

At Gold & Witham, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with an underage DUI charge. Our firm is dedicated to defending minors and young adults in Manhattan Beach and throughout California, ensuring that their rights are protected and their cases handled with care.

Contact us today at (800) 716-6791 to schedule a confidential consultation with a Manhattan Beach underage DUI lawyer.

California Underage DUI Laws & Penalties

California has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to underage drinking and driving. This means that even the smallest amount of alcohol in your system can lead to serious consequences if you are under 21.

Zero Tolerance Law (Vehicle Code § 23136)

• Any driver under 21 with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.01% or higher can face an underage DUI charge.
• Even one drink or trace amounts of alcohol can trigger an arrest.
• This is a civil offense but still carries significant consequences, including license suspension.

Underage DUI with BAC of 0.05% or More (Vehicle Code § 23140)

• If an underage driver’s BAC measures 0.05% or higher, they may be charged with an underage DUI misdemeanor.
• Penalties may include fines, mandatory alcohol education classes, and driver’s license suspension.

Standard DUI Laws Apply at 0.08% BAC or Higher

• If an underage driver is found with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, they face the same penalties as adult drivers under California’s standard DUI laws.
• This can mean possible jail time, fines, probation, and a criminal record.

Consequences of an Underage DUI Conviction

• Driver’s license suspension for 1 year or longer.
• Fines and fees that can quickly add up.
• Mandatory alcohol education programs or DUI school.
• Probation or community service.
• Impact on college admissions, scholarships, and employment opportunities.

Because California takes underage DUI charges so seriously, it’s important to have our Manhattan Beach underage DUI attorney on your side to challenge the evidence and fight for your rights.

Legal Defense to Underage DUI

Every underage DUI case is unique, and the defense strategy will depend on the circumstances of the arrest. At Gold & Witham, we carefully review all aspects of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s arguments. Some common defenses to underage DUI charges include:

• Unlawful Traffic Stop: Police must have reasonable suspicion to stop a vehicle. If the officer lacked legal justification, any evidence gathered may be inadmissible.
• Faulty Breath Test or Blood Test: Breathalyzers and chemical tests are not always accurate. Improper calibration, maintenance issues, or human error can lead to false BAC readings.
• Rising Blood Alcohol Defense: Alcohol levels can continue to rise after drinking. A driver’s BAC at the time of the stop may have been lower than when it was tested later.
• Medical Conditions and Other Factors: Certain medical conditions, diets, or even mouthwash can cause false-positive BAC results.
• Violation of Rights: If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during the stop, arrest, or testing process, the charges may be reduced or dismissed.

Our goal is to minimize the impact of an underage DUI charge on your life. We aggressively negotiate with prosecutors, file motions to suppress evidence, and represent clients in court when necessary.

Underage DUI FAQs

What happens to my license after an underage DUI in California?

Under California’s zero-tolerance law, your license will typically be suspended for one year if you are under 21 and convicted of DUI. You may be able to apply for a restricted license in certain circumstances.

Will I have to go to jail for an underage DUI?

For most first-time underage DUI offenses involving low BAC levels, jail time is unlikely. However, if your BAC is 0.08% or higher, or if there are aggravating factors such as an accident or injuries, you may face jail time.

Can an underage DUI affect my future?

Yes. An underage DUI can appear on your criminal record, affecting college applications, job opportunities, and even future professional licensing. That’s why it’s critical to fight the charge.

How can a Manhattan Beach underage DUI lawyer help me?

A skilled attorney can investigate your case, challenge the evidence, negotiate for reduced charges, and in some cases, get the charges dismissed. Legal representation greatly increases your chances of achieving the best outcome.

Can my DUI record be expunged?

In some cases, once probation is completed, you may be able to petition the court to expunge your DUI conviction. This process helps clear your record for employment purposes, but eligibility depends on the details of your case.

Call Gold & Witham – Manhattan Beach Underage DUI Lawyer

If you or your child is facing an underage DUI charge in Manhattan Beach, do not try to handle it alone. The consequences can be life-changing, but with the right legal defense, it is possible to protect your rights and your future.

At Gold & Witham, we are committed to defending young drivers against underage DUI charges in Manhattan Beach and the surrounding areas. Our legal team will provide aggressive, compassionate, and knowledgeable representation at every stage of the case.

Call (800) 716-6791 to discuss your family’s situation and learn how we can help you navigate the next steps.