Being charged with an underage DUI in Tennessee can have serious and lasting consequences. Tennessee has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21, meaning that even a small amount of alcohol in your system can lead to a DUI charge. A conviction can result in license suspension, fines, community service, and a criminal record that may affect future educational and employment opportunities.
At Ooten Law Firm, we understand how overwhelming an underage DUI charge can be for young drivers and their families. Our experienced DUI defense attorneys fight to protect your rights, minimize penalties, and explore alternatives to prevent a conviction from affecting your future.
Why Hire an Underage DUI Attorney?
Underage DUI laws in Tennessee are strict, and prosecutors often push for harsh penalties, even for first-time offenders. Without proper legal representation, young drivers may face unnecessary consequences that could impact their education, job prospects, and financial stability.
A DUI defense attorney can challenge the traffic stop, question the validity of sobriety tests, and negotiate for reduced penalties or alternative sentencing options. At Ooten Law Firm, we fight to keep an underage DUI from defining your future.
Penalties for Underage DUI in Tennessee
Under Tennessee’s zero-tolerance law, drivers under 21 can be charged with DUI if they have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02% or higher. The penalties for an underage DUI conviction include:
- License Suspension: One-year driver’s license suspension.
- Fines: A minimum fine of $250.
- Community Service: Court-ordered community service requirements.
- Higher Insurance Costs: Significant increases in auto insurance premiums.
- Permanent Record: A DUI conviction can appear on background checks, affecting college admissions and job opportunities.
- Possible Additional Charges: If the driver has a BAC of 0.08% or higher, they may face standard DUI penalties, including jail time and higher fines.
These penalties can have long-term effects, but our attorneys can help you explore legal options to fight the charges.
How We Defend Underage DUI Charges
An underage DUI charge does not have to lead to a conviction. At Ooten Law Firm, we explore every possible defense to protect your future. Whether challenging the legality of the stop, questioning the accuracy of breath tests, or negotiating for reduced charges, we fight to achieve the best possible outcome.
Our underage DUI defense process includes:
Examining the Traffic Stop
We investigate whether law enforcement had a valid reason to stop the driver and whether proper procedures were followed.
Challenging Field Sobriety and Breath Tests
We analyze the reliability of breathalyzer results and field sobriety tests, looking for errors or inconsistencies.
Seeking Alternative Sentencing
We negotiate for options such as probation, alcohol education programs, or expungement to help avoid long-term consequences.
An underage DUI charge can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to face it alone. The attorneys at Ooten Law Firm are here to fight for your rights and help you move forward. Contact us today for a consultation.
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