Underage DUI Lawyer in Lynnwood

Under 21 DUI in Washington State

In Washington, anyone under the age of 21 can be arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) if they have virtually any detectable trace of alcohol or THC in their system. These are serious charges—a conviction for underage DUI can result in jail time, probation, fines, and possible driver’s license suspension, not to mention significant impacts on your career, educational opportunities, and reputation.

If you or your child has been arrested for an under-21 DUI in Lynnwood or anywhere in Snohomish County, DUIHeroes can help. With more than 50 years of combined experience and a team of leading DUI defense attorneys that includes two former prosecutors, we are equipped to aggressively protect your future. Our team has an average 95% success rate in getting first-time charges reduced or dismissed;* learn how we can help you today. 

Contact us online or call (425) 296-9358 for a free consultation.

How Washington Defines “Underage DUI”

It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs, regardless of one’s age. For most drivers 21 or older, the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%, but the limit is significantly lower for drivers under the legal drinking age. 

The law states that it is illegal for anyone at least 18 years old but less than 21 years old to drive with: 

• A BAC of at least 0.02% but less than 0.08%
• More than 0.00 ng/mL but less than 5.00 ng/mL of THC

It is also possible for someone to be arrested for DUI if the officer believes that they were impaired by alcohol or drugs, regardless of the amount of alcohol or THC detected in their system. 

The law is especially strict for minors, and the penalties can be extremely harsh. If you or your child has been arrested for underage DUI, it’s crucial that you contact a defense attorney with experience handling these cases. At DUIHeroes, DUI defense is all we do. Our Lynnwood underage DUI attorneys are here to answer your questions and provide the information you need to move forward. 

What Are the Penalties for Underage DUI in Lynnwood, WA?

Generally speaking, underage DUIs are typically charged as misdemeanors in Washington State, though certain factors can elevate the charges to a felony. In any case, even a misdemeanor can result in considerable penalties that can have a lasting impact on your life.

Depending on the circumstances, penalties for a first-offense underage DUI in Lynnwood may include: 

• Up to 90 days in jail 
• Up to $1,000 in fines 
• Alcohol/drug evaluation and treatment

You could also have your driver’s license suspended through the Department of Licensing (DOL). If this happens, you have a very limited amount of time to request a hearing to contest your license suspension. We urge you to contact our underage DUI lawyers in Lynnwood right away for help.

How We Defend Against Under-21 DUI Charges

Being arrested for DUI is stressful, no matter how old you are or the circumstances of the arrest. While law enforcement often tries to make it seem like the evidence against you is irrefutable, the fact is that you are innocent unless proven guilty. 

Possible defenses to underage DUI charges include: 

• Determining if the police officer had reasonable cause to pull you over 
• Reviewing how tests were performed and whether equipment was properly calibrated and maintained
• Examining whether your rights were violated in any way during the stop or any following police procedures 
• Proving that a medical condition or other factors affected your test results 

Our team understands how these cases work; we know how to challenge the state’s case and build a strong defense on your behalf. Our goal is to achieve the best possible outcome, whether that’s pursuing reduced charges, seeking alternative sentencing or deferred prosecution, or getting your case dismissed when possible. 

Contact Our Underage DUI Attorneys in Lynnwood 

After a DUI arrest, the most important thing is to act quickly. Because under-21 cases are occasionally referred to as “minor DUIs,” some people make the mistake of not taking these charges seriously. But the fact is, your future could be on the line. The sooner you get in touch with our firm, the sooner we can begin fighting to protect your rights. 

DUIHeroes is recognized as a leader in DUI defense. All of our attorneys are trained in the same NHTSA standards as Washington State police officers, and founding attorney Jonathan Dichter frequently lectures on DUI defense strategies both statewide and nationally. Our entire team is committed to providing the dedicated representation and compassionate support you need as you navigate the legal process. 

Call us 24/7 at (425) 296-9358 or reach us online to schedule a free and confidential consultation with a member of our legal team.