Underage DWI Lawyer in Knoxville

Strong Representation for Those Charged With Underage DWI in Knox County

Drunk driving is a serious offense that can have severe consequences. While this is true for people of all ages, offenses involving driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are taken especially seriously when they are committed by minors. In the state of Tennessee, people under the legal drinking age of 21 who are charged with operating a motor vehicle with alcohol or drugs in their system can face penalties that may affect their driver's licenses, place restrictions on their lives, and lead to permanent criminal records. It is important to understand how Tennessee's DUI laws address underage drinking and driving, and minors who are charged with these offenses can work with an attorney to determine their options for defense.

Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney provides representation in multiple types of DUI cases, including those involving minors. We can help address underage DWI charges, working with children who have been arrested for drunk driving to determine their best options for defense and the steps they can take to avoid a conviction and a criminal record.

Tennessee Underage DWI Penalties

While Tennessee law uses the term "driving under the influence," or DUI, to refer to drunk driving offenses committed by adults over the age of 21, it uses the term "driving while impaired," or DWI, when discussing underage drinking and driving. The specific charges may depend on a minor's age at the time of an alleged offense and the circumstances surrounding their arrest.

In general, a minor may be charged with underage DWI if they operated a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The use of drugs such as marijuana, other controlled substances, or any other substances that affect the central nervous system may lead to DWI charges. A minor may also be charged with DWI if chemical tests show that they had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of at least 0.02 percent at the time they were driving.

Minors who are charged with DWI may face penalties including a one-year driver's license suspension, a $250 fine, and the requirement to complete public service work, with the number of hours of work being set at the discretion of the court. For minors who are under the age of 18, DWI is treated as an act of delinquency that is handled in juvenile courts rather than adult courts. However, for minors between the ages of 18 and 21, DWI is a Class A misdemeanor criminal offense, and a conviction may leave a permanent mark on a minor's criminal record.

The Importance of Seeking Legal Representation

If a child is facing underage DWI charges in Tennessee, it is crucial to seek legal representation from an attorney who has experience defending clients against drunk driving charges. At Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney, we can assess the details surrounding an underage DWI arrest, identify any potential defenses or weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and provide guidance throughout the legal process while working toward minimizing the potential consequences a minor may face.

We understand that every case is unique. We will examine all aspects surrounding an arrest, including whether the proper procedures were followed by law enforcement during BAC testing or field sobriety tests. We can also determine whether a police officer violated a minor's constitutional rights during a traffic stop or whether there are any other defenses that can be raised against DWI charges.

In addition to looking at whether the legality of an arrest may be challenged or whether evidence may be excluded because it was obtained illegally, we can also negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss charges. We can explore alternative sentencing options and help ensure that a minor receives education and treatment rather than facing criminal penalties that could affect them in the future.

Contact an Experienced Knox County Underage DWI Defense Attorney

If you are facing underage DWI charges in Tennessee, it is crucial to get legal help from a dedicated lawyer who will fight for your rights. At Jeffrey Coller, Knoxville Criminal Defense Attorney, our legal team understands the complexities of underage DWI cases, and we have extensive experience defending clients against drunk driving charges. We will thoroughly investigate every aspect of your case, provide knowledgeable guidance throughout the legal process, and work tirelessly to protect your future. Contact us at 865-281-1000 to set up a complimentary consultation.