Mount Vernon Underage DUI Attorneys

Protecting the Rights of Minors in Washington

Being charged with driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious matter, but it is even more so when the driver is under the legal drinking age. In Washington, the legal drinking age is 21, and the state has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. This means that if you are under 21 and are found to have any alcohol in your system while driving, you can be charged with DUI.

At Mountain Law, PLLC, we understand the unique challenges that minors face when they are charged with DUI. Our Mount Vernon underage DUI lawyers are committed to providing the compassionate and personalized legal guidance you need during this difficult time. We will work tirelessly to build a strong defense on your behalf and help you make well-informed decisions every step of the way.

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What Is the Legal Limit for Underage DUI in Washington?

Washington has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. This means that if you are under 21 and are found to have any alcohol in your system while driving, you can be charged with DUI. You do not need to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher to be charged with underage DUI.

However, if you are over 21, you can be charged with DUI if your BAC is 0.08% or higher. If you are a commercial driver, you can be charged with DUI if your BAC is 0.04% or higher.

What Are the Penalties for Underage DUI in Washington?

Underage DUI is a serious offense in Washington, and the penalties can be severe. If you are convicted of underage DUI, you will face both criminal and administrative penalties.

The criminal penalties for a first-time underage DUI conviction in Washington include:

• Up to 364 days in jail
• Up to $5,000 in fines
• License suspension for 90 days
• Ignition interlock device (IID) installation for 1 year
• Probation
• Alcohol/drug evaluation and treatment
• Community service

If you are convicted of a second or subsequent underage DUI, the penalties will be even more severe. You will face a mandatory minimum of 30 days in jail, up to 364 days in jail, and up to $5,000 in fines. Your license will be suspended for 2 years, and you will be required to install an IID for 1 year.

In addition to the criminal penalties, you will also face administrative penalties, including:

• License suspension for 1 year
• IID installation for 1 year

It is important to note that these are the penalties for a DUI conviction. If you are charged with a lesser offense, such as a DUI-related negligent driving, the penalties will be less severe.

Can I Go to College with a DUI?

Being convicted of DUI can have a significant impact on your future, especially if you are a college student or are planning to attend college. Many colleges and universities ask about criminal convictions on their applications, and a DUI conviction can hurt your chances of being admitted.

However, this does not mean that you will not be able to go to college if you have a DUI conviction on your record. Many schools are willing to work with students who have been convicted of DUI, especially if they have taken steps to address the issue and have shown that they have learned from their mistakes.

It is important to be honest on your college applications. If you are asked about criminal convictions, you should disclose your DUI conviction. If you fail to do so and the school finds out, it could hurt your chances of being admitted or lead to your admission being rescinded.

When reviewing your application, the school will consider the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, and what you have done to address the issue. If you have completed an alcohol education program, have attended counseling, or have taken other steps to address the issue, you should include this information on your application.

It is also important to note that if you are convicted of DUI, you may be required to disclose the conviction to your school. Many schools have a code of conduct that requires students to report criminal convictions. If you fail to do so and the school finds out, you could face disciplinary action.

How Long Does a DUI Stay on Your Record in Washington?

In Washington, a DUI conviction will stay on your criminal record forever. This means that it will be visible to anyone who conducts a background check on you, including employers, landlords, and schools.

However, if you are convicted of DUI as a minor, you may be able to have the conviction expunged from your record. In Washington, you can have a DUI conviction expunged if you were under 18 at the time of the offense and at least 2 years have passed since the date of the conviction. You must also meet certain other requirements to be eligible for expungement. Expungement is not available for adults who are convicted of DUI. If you are over 18 and are convicted of DUI, the conviction will remain on your record permanently.

How Can a Lawyer Help with Underage DUI Charges?

If you are a minor who has been charged with DUI, it is important to seek legal representation as soon as possible. An experienced Mount Vernon underage DUI lawyer can help you understand your rights and options and guide you through the legal process.

At Mountain Law, PLLC, we have a comprehensive understanding of Washington DUI laws and can help you build a strong defense. We will review the details of your case, conduct a thorough investigation, and help you determine the most effective legal strategy. Our team will fight aggressively to protect your rights and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.

Get the Legal Guidance You Need

If you are a minor who has been charged with DUI, you need an experienced lawyer on your side. At Mountain Law, PLLC, we are committed to providing the strong legal representation you need during this difficult time. Our Mount Vernon underage DUI attorneys will fight aggressively to protect your rights and help you make well-informed decisions every step of the way.

Call (360) 641-7477 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our team today.