Juvenile DUI Attorney in Bellevue

Building a Strong Defense Against Underage DUI Charges

When a young person is accused of DUI, their entire future is at stake. At DUIHeroes, we understand the fear and stress families face in this moment. Our team, led by nationally recognized DUI attorney Jonathan Dichter, brings over 50 years of collective legal experience to help protect your child’s rights, reputation, and future.

We focus on open communication, collaboration, and education—making sure you and your child always know what’s happening in the case and what comes next. With DUIHeroes, you don’t face this alone.

To find out more about the ways our Bellevue juvenile DUI lawyers can help, call (425) 296-9358. Your initial consultation is free!

Juvenile & Under 21 DUI Laws in Washington

Washington takes underage drinking and driving seriously, but the laws vary depending on blood alcohol concentration (BAC).

Two types of charges may apply:

• RCW 46.61.503: BAC of 0.02–0.07% (or THC above 0.00). This is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 in fines, plus Department of Licensing license suspension (often 90 days on a first offense).
• RCW 46.61.502: BAC of 0.08% or more, or impairment by drugs/alcohol. This is a gross misdemeanor with mandatory minimum jail, fines, license suspension, ignition interlock, and treatment requirements under RCW 46.61.5055.

It may seem that all underage DUI cases in Bellevue are alike—but the exact statute makes a big difference in both penalties and defense strategy.

What Penalties Can a Juvenile Face for DUI?

Consequences vary depending on the charge, but may include:

• License suspension or revocation by the Department of Licensing (DOL)
• Fines (up to $1,000 for a minor DUI; up to $5,000 for an adult DUI)
• Probation or community supervision through juvenile court or adult probation services
• Mandatory alcohol/drug education or counseling
• Community service or other rehabilitative conditions

For juveniles under 18, the court applies juvenile sentencing (RCW 13.40.0357), which emphasizes rehabilitation. For those 18–20, adult DUI penalties apply, including mandatory minimum jail terms if charged under RCW 46.61.502.

A conviction—even for a “minor DUI”—can also affect college admissions, scholarships, military eligibility, and job opportunities. That’s why a strong defense matters as much for future opportunities as it does in the courtroom.

Our Approach to Juvenile DUI Defense

At DUIHeroes, we look beyond the arrest report. We examine every element of the stop, testing procedures, officer conduct, and evidence chain to find weaknesses in the state’s case.

Depending on the facts, defenses may include:

• Challenging the legality of the stop or arrest
• Scrutinizing field sobriety test administration
• Reviewing breath/blood test calibration and handling
• Presenting expert testimony to question the reliability of evidence

We also focus on alternatives that emphasize rehabilitation instead of punishment—such as diversion, community service, or treatment programs—especially for minors who deserve a second chance.

What to Do After an Underage DUI Arrest in Bellevue, WA

An arrest for DUI under the age of 21 can be overwhelming, no matter the circumstances. What you do in the moments and days following your arrest can make a major difference in how your case unfolds.

1. Remain Calm & Respectful During the Stop

How you act during a traffic stop can affect both the evidence and how officers testify later. Stay polite, avoid arguing, and comply with basic requests like providing your license, registration, and proof of insurance.

2. Know Your Rights

You are not required to answer incriminating questions about drinking or drug use. You have the right to remain silent and the right to request an attorney. If you’re asked to perform field sobriety tests, remember these are voluntary—you can politely decline.

3. Understand Implied Consent

Washington’s implied consent law means that if you refuse a breath or blood test, you may face automatic license revocation (typically one year for drivers under the age of 21). This is separate from any criminal penalties and comes from the Department of Licensing (DOL).

4. Contact a Local DUI Lawyer in Bellevue Immediately

After being released from custody, contacting a Bellevue DUI defense lawyer should be your first step. For Bellevue arrests, you are likely dealing with the King County District Court. Having an attorney who knows the local courts is critical for protecting your license, your record, and your future.

5. Act Quickly to Protect Your License

You have only 7 days from the date of arrest to request a hearing with the DOL to contest your license suspension. Missing this deadline means your license will be suspended automatically, even if your criminal case is later dismissed.

6. Preserve Evidence & Information

Write down everything you remember about the stop: where you were, what the officer said, whether you were read your rights, and whether tests were offered. Save receipts, text messages, or witness contacts that may support your defense.

7. Focus on Your Future

An underage DUI charge doesn’t just threaten your license—it can affect school, scholarships, jobs, and even military eligibility. Taking the right steps early with the help of a skilled defense team can minimize the impact on your future opportunities.

Contact Our Bellevue Under 21 DUI Attorneys

At DUIHeroes, we know a mistake—or a wrongful accusation—shouldn’t define a young person’s life. Our defense team combines compassion with unmatched DUI knowledge to fight for the best possible outcome. We’re available day and night to answer your questions, guide your family, and start building a defense that protects your child’s future.

Call (425) 296-9358 now for a free consultation with a Bellevue juvenile DUI attorney.