Underage Drinking and Driving in Douglas County

Underage drinking and driving (UDD) in Douglas County, Colorado can land those under the age of 21 in significant trouble. Colorado has zero tolerance for underage DUI. While an initial UDD is a class A traffic infraction, any additional instances of minors driving under the influence are misdemeanor crimes. In some cases, minors also have alcohol or marijuana in the car they’re driving, potentially leading to other charges. Consulting a particularly experienced DUI lawyer is critical for minors facing an underage drinking and driving charge in Colorado.

Underage DUI in Highlands Ranch

Minors in Douglas County can face a UDD charge for many different reasons. Partying with friends and consuming alcohol or marijuana are common activities that lead to UDD. However, taking cold medicine, swallowing mouthwash, and eating desserts with alcohol in them can also be problematic. It is unlawful throughout Colorado for drivers under 21 to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .02% – .05%. Additionally, the presence of alcohol, marijuana, or drug paraphernalia in the vehicle a minor is driving can lead to a minor in possession charge.

Does UDD result in Jail Time in Colorado?

While a first underage DUI isn’t a crime, it still comes with impactful penalties. Minors in these situations face up to a $150 fine, a 3 month driver’s license suspension, 4 points on their DMV record, and a possible alcohol evaluation or education program at their expense.

However, a second or third UDD is a class 2 traffic misdemeanor. On top of the items above, a conviction can result in:

10 – 90 days in county jail,
a $300 fine

A three month license suspension can hinder a minor’s ability to get to and from a summer job, school, or college.

Underage Drinking and Driving Attorney in Castle Rock

Younger college students and teenagers are held accountable if they drive under the influence in Castle Rock, Parker, and Highlands Ranch. Whether alcohol, marijuana, or prescription drugs are the root cause, securing a strategic UDD attorney can have a positive impact on your unique case. Perhaps there were errors in the breath test, the traffic stop was unlawful, or the minor was given a substance without their knowledge. Nevertheless, contact our office today for a free consultation. One of our skilled defense lawyers will carefully analyze your unique case, as well as recommend next steps. Our affordable fees and flexible payment plans make strategic representation a reality in these uncertain times.