Orange County Underage DUI Lawyer

Protecting the Rights and Futures of Minors Facing DUI Charges

If you or your child is facing underage DUI charges in Orange County, CA, it’s crucial to seek experienced legal representation immediately. At Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry, Inc., we understand the life-changing consequences that a DUI conviction can have on a young person’s future. Our firm is dedicated to providing skilled and compassionate defense for minors charged with driving under the influence.

An underage DUI case can be overwhelming — not just for the person charged, but for their family as well. As a leading Orange County underage DUI attorney, we help clients understand their rights, navigate the legal process, and fight for the best possible outcome in every case.

To request a free initial consultation with our Orange County underage DUI lawyers, call (949) 694-8804 or contact us online today.

What is Considered an Underage DUI in California?

In California, the law sets a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21 when it comes to alcohol. This means any measurable amount of alcohol in a minor’s system while operating a vehicle can result in a DUI charge.

There are three primary ways a person under 21 can be charged with DUI:

• California Vehicle Code §23136 (Zero Tolerance Law): A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.01% or higher while driving is an automatic violation. This is a civil offense and can lead to license suspension.
• California Vehicle Code §23140: If an underage driver has a BAC of 0.05% to 0.07%, they can be charged with an infraction, which may include fines and mandatory DUI education classes.
• California Vehicle Code §23152 (Standard DUI): A BAC of 0.08% or higher, or any level of impairment due to drugs or alcohol, can lead to a full DUI charge — the same as an adult would face.

Even without a high BAC, if an officer believes the underage driver is impaired by alcohol, marijuana, or other substances, the driver can be arrested and prosecuted.

California Underage DUI Penalties

The consequences of an underage DUI conviction in California can be severe — even for first-time offenders. The specific penalties depend on the BAC level, prior offenses, and whether any injuries or damages occurred.

Common penalties include:

• Driver’s License Suspension: Up to one year for a zero-tolerance violation. Possible longer suspensions for higher BAC or repeated offenses.
• Fines and Court Fees: Ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the charge.
• DUI Education Programs: Court-mandated alcohol education or rehabilitation programs.
• Community Service or Probation: Judges often require minors to perform community service or serve informal probation.
• Jail Time (for more serious offenses): Especially if the BAC is 0.08% or higher, or if injury to others occurred.
• Insurance Rate Increases: A DUI conviction can cause a dramatic rise in car insurance premiums.

A conviction doesn’t just impact your driving record. It can also affect college applications, scholarships, employment opportunities, and even immigration status.

FAQs About Underage DUI Charges in Orange County, CA

Can I refuse a breathalyzer if I’m under 21?

While you technically can refuse, doing so will result in an automatic one-year license suspension under California’s implied consent law. Refusing a test can also be used against you in court.

Will an underage DUI show up on a background check?

Yes. A DUI conviction is a criminal offense and will appear on background checks unless expunged. This can impact college admissions, internships, and employment.

Can my DUI be expunged?

In many cases, yes. Once you’ve completed your sentence and probation, you may be eligible to petition the court for expungement. Our attorneys can guide you through this process.

Is it possible to get charges reduced or dismissed?

Absolutely. Depending on the circumstances of your case, we may be able to negotiate lesser charges, such as a “wet reckless,” or pursue dismissal if evidence was mishandled or your rights were violated.

What should I do immediately after being charged?

Contact a qualified Orange County underage DUI lawyer as soon as possible. Avoid making any statements to police without legal counsel, and gather any documentation or witness information that may help your case.

How Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry, Inc. Can Help

At Law Offices of Virginia L. Landry, Inc., we take every underage DUI case seriously. We provide strategic, aggressive defense aimed at reducing or dismissing the charges. Our legal team has extensive experience in Orange County courts, working with local judges and prosecutors to reach favorable outcomes.

Our defense approach includes:

• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop or arrest
• Disputing the accuracy of field sobriety or chemical tests
• Investigating whether law enforcement followed proper procedures
• Negotiating for reduced penalties or participation in diversion programs

When you work with our Orange County underage DUI attorney, you’re not just hiring a lawyer — you’re gaining an advocate who is deeply committed to your future.

Contact us at (949) 694-8804 for a free consultation and ensure your child's rights and future are safeguarded by seasoned professionals.