Underage DUI Attorney in Lakewood

Supportive Guidance & Strong Defense for Underage DUI Charges in Lakewood

Facing an underage DUI charge in Lakewood can feel overwhelming. At Fife Luneau, P.C., we guide families and young people through Colorado’s legal system with knowledgeable support. Our focus is steady—protecting your future and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case.

Lakewood and Jefferson County law enforcement take underage impaired driving seriously. In this region, law enforcement officers, school officials, and courts often coordinate when a young person faces a charge. Early intervention and reliable legal advice from an underage DUI lawyer in Lakewood can make a real difference. We make sure families know what to expect at each stage, creating a sense of clarity during a stressful time.

If your child faces underage DUI charges, call an underage DUI attorney in Lakewood now! We offer 24/7 availability and free consultations. Contact our firm at (720) 408-7130 or reach out online immediately.

Understanding Colorado’s Underage DUI Laws

Colorado law classifies offenses involving alcohol and minors under 21 based on the Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level. The severity of the punishment increases dramatically as the BAC increases.

1. Underage Drinking and Driving (UDD)

• BAC: 0.02% to 0.05%
• First Offense Classification: Class A Traffic Infraction (not a misdemeanor crime).
• Penalties: Includes a mandatory 3-month license revocation, fines up to $100, and mandatory public service/alcohol education.

2. Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI) or DUI

If the minor's BAC exceeds 0.05% (for DWAI) or 0.08% (for DUI), they are prosecuted under the same statutes as an adult, facing misdemeanor criminal charges and potential jail time.

• DWAI (BAC 0.05% to 0.079%): Penalties include up to 180 days in jail, fines up to $500, and an 8-point license assessment.
• DUI (BAC ≥0.08%): Penalties include up to one year in jail, fines up to $1,000, and a 9-month license revocation.

A successful Lakewood underage DUI lawyer fights to ensure the charge remains at the UDD infraction level, avoiding the jail time and higher fines associated with DWAI/DUI misdemeanors.

Penalties and Collateral Consequences of a UDD Conviction

Even the lowest level UDD infraction carries mandatory administrative and collateral consequences that can severely impact a minor’s transition into adulthood.

Administrative and Court Penalties

• Mandatory License Revocation: A first offense UDD triggers a 3-month revocation of the driver's license.
• Required Programs: Mandatory completion of Level I Alcohol Education (12 hours) and a drug/alcohol evaluation—all at the minor's expense.
• Criminal Record Escalation: A second UDD offense is elevated to a Class 2 Traffic Misdemeanor, punishable by 10 to 90 days in jail and increased fines, highlighting the escalating risk.

Lifelong Collateral Consequences

• Educational Disqualification: A conviction on the minor’s record can compromise eligibility for college scholarships, federal student aid, and certain school programs.
• Employment Barriers: Jobs requiring driving or a clean background check may be denied.
• Insurance Liability: Steep increases in automobile insurance premiums are common, placing a significant financial burden on the family.
• Record Sealing Eligibility: While UDD convictions may be eligible for sealing upon turning 21, the process is not automatic and requires an attorney to manage the petition.

The Colorado Criminal Defense Process for Underage DUI Charges

The Underage DUI case involves a two-front battle in Jefferson County: the criminal/infraction case and the administrative license case with the Department of Revenue (DOR) DMV.

A. DMV Administrative Hearing (7-Day Deadline)

The minor has only seven days from the date of arrest to request a hearing to contest the license revocation. We immediately file the hearing request to preserve the minor's right to drive, often securing a probationary "red license" for travel to and from work/school after the initial 30 days.

B. Jefferson County Criminal Case

• Challenging the Stop (Motion to Suppress): We scrutinize police reports and video evidence. If the officer lacked reasonable suspicion for the stop, we move to suppress the BAC evidence, forcing the prosecutor to drop the infraction/misdemeanor charge.
• BAC Accuracy: We challenge the reliability of the breathalyzer device, arguing technical faults or improper administration (e.g., failure to observe the required waiting period).
• Diversion and Plea Negotiation: We aggressively negotiate a plea that avoids a criminal conviction entirely. We advocate for a Deferred Sentence or an agreement that keeps the charge eligible for sealing or expungement upon the client turning 21.

What to Expect When You Work with an Underage DUI Lawyer in Lakewood

If you reach out to us for help, we begin with open, honest communication. From our initial consultation, we:

• Review your situation: We ask questions to understand the context and circumstances around the charge.
• Explain the process: We clarify the next steps, possible impact on driving privileges, and what court involvement may look like in Lakewood and Jefferson County.
• Gather evidence: Our team acts quickly to collect police reports, test results, and other relevant documents.
• Build strategy: We identify legal arguments, review the accuracy of tests, and challenge evidence that may not meet legal standards.
• Navigate legal options: Together, we discuss ways to protect a young person’s record and pursue the most favorable resolutions available.

Because each underage DUI case is unique, we approach your situation with attention to detail and care. Whether an arrest took place near a Lakewood high school, after a sports event, or during a regular traffic stop, law enforcement’s methods and documentation matter. 

Our team addresses real-world impacts like school discipline, increased insurance costs, and employment concerns, so you stay informed about the consequences beyond court. We communicate directly with families and minors, keeping everyone included and updated throughout each stage of the process.

Why Choose Fife Luneau, P.C. as Your Underage DUI Attorney

• Comprehensive DUI Knowledge: Our legal team handles a wide range of cases and understands the complexities of underage DUIs under Colorado law.
• Thorough Case Preparation: We gather all relevant evidence, work with investigators, and review every detail to build a tailored defense that considers every option for your situation.
• Recognized Legal Resource: As a firm cited by media outlets for DUI insights, we bring credibility and up-to-date knowledge directly to your defense.
• Personalized Strategy: We listen to your concerns, explain your options, and address your individual priorities—whether you want to protect a young person’s record, reduce consequences, or minimize disruption to daily life.

You deserve a team who clearly explains what each legal decision means for your future. We go beyond routine representation by keeping you informed and always providing direct answers. By sharing insight about Lakewood court practices and Colorado DUI regulations—such as eligibility for alcohol treatment or alternative sentencing—we help you approach each decision with confidence and clarity.

Contact an Underage DUI Attorney in Lakewood for a Clear Path Forward

If an underage DUI charge has affected your family in Lakewood, contact us today. Speaking with our team gives you a thorough review of your situation, clear answers about what to expect, and reassurance from professionals who know Colorado’s DUI laws. We work to defend your rights and minimize the impact on your future. 

Take the first step—reach out at (720) 408-7130 or contact us online to schedule a confidential conversation about your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the BAC limit for underage drivers in Colorado?

The legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit for drivers under 21 in Colorado is 0.02%. Any test result at or above that level can lead to an underage DUI or UDD charge.

Will an underage DUI conviction stay on my record?

A conviction can become part of your permanent record and may affect school, employment, and driving privileges. Some records may eventually be eligible for sealing, but the process is limited and requires review on a case-by-case basis.

Can I lose my license for a first underage DUI in Lakewood?

Colorado law allows for license suspension even on a first offense. The Colorado Department of Motor Vehicles often becomes involved soon after arrest, which can impact your ability to drive.

What penalties could someone under 21 face for a DUI in Jefferson County?

Penalties might include fines, community service, completion of alcohol education classes, probation, or jail in some situations. The court considers age, BAC, prior offenses, and the presence of aggravating circumstances.

Is it possible to challenge the evidence in an underage DUI case?

Yes, a defense can address the accuracy of breath or blood tests and the circumstances of the stop. Legal options may involve challenging procedural errors or contesting how law enforcement collected evidence.

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