Lake Charles Underage DUI Lawyer
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Trusted Underage DUI Attorney in Lake Charles, LA
Underage drinking is a crime in Louisiana, and matters only get more serious if a minor is caught driving under the influence (DUI). A Lake Charles underage DUI lawyer can explain your rights and legal options in the face of a DUI charge.
Louisiana is tough on underage DUIs. There are often serious penalties involved, including fines and even time in jail. With effective legal representation, you can form a solid defense that protects your freedom and future.
Louisianans in Lake Charles and surrounding areas have been turning to Stockstill Defense Firm to defend them in difficult criminal cases for over 25 years. We’re familiar with state underage DUI laws as well as the penalties drivers may face if convicted.
Our Lake Charles criminal defense lawyers are confident in navigating pre-trial motions and litigation in the courtroom. When possible, our firm can help you avoid excessive legal action through negotiations with prosecutors. No matter how complicated matters become, we’ve got you covered.
Louisiana Underage DUI Laws
DUI is a serious offense in Louisiana that can cause serious or even fatal injuries. In a single year, accidents involving impaired drivers resulted in 210 fatalities in Louisiana.
The state’s underage DUI laws and regulations are stricter than those imposed for drivers above the legal drinking age. For example, adults in Louisiana can be charged with DUI if the amount of alcohol found in their blood (BAC) is 0.08 percent or higher while operating a motor vehicle.
If you’re an underage driver, on the other hand, your BAC must be lower than 0.02 percent in order to operate a vehicle legally. This is meant to protect the roads from drivers who could endanger everyone else due to driving under the influence.
How a Lake Charles Underage DUI Attorney Can Help With Your Case
There were 2,366 arrests for underage DWI in Louisiana in 2024 alone. If your child is facing legal repercussions for a drunk driving incident, it’s important to know what steps to take to help them secure lighter consequences.
Fortunately, you don’t have to do everything on your own. For over 25 years, Stockstill Defense Firm has defended Louisianans in the midst of complicated legal matters, including underage DUI cases.
We’re familiar with navigating these types of cases through the Lake Charles City Court or the 14th Judicial District Court, depending on the nature and severity of the crime. Over the years, we’ve earned a stellar reputation, including:
American Bar Association
Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers in LA
National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
National Trial Lawyers Top 100 Trial Lawyers
SuperLawyers® rating*
A Lake Charles DUI lawyer from Stockstill Defense Firm can be by your side through each phase of your case. From pre-trial motions to successful trial representation, our local firm has a history of successful outcomes.**
FAQs
Can an Underage DUI Be Charged as a Felony in Louisiana?
Yes, underage DUI can be charged as a felony in Louisiana. Typically, you can expect an underage DUI to be a misdemeanor for the first and even the second offense.
Much like a DUI for drivers above the legal drinking age, certain aggravating factors escalate underage DUIs into a felony charge. This includes:
Collisions that cause death or severe injuries
Committing vehicular manslaughter
Driving with another underage passenger
Having a third or subsequent offense
Can My Child Go to Jail for Underage DUI in Lake Charles?
Yes, your child can go to jail for underage DUI in Lake Charles. It’s wise to hire an underage DUI lawyer to help you build a solid defense and secure a fair outcome.
DUI is prosecuted harshly in Louisiana, and there is no legal mandate for leniency when it comes to underage offenders. That said, a judge can substitute mandatory jail time with community service, probation, or substance abuse treatment programs.
What Defenses Can I Use in an Underage DUI Case in Lake Charles?
What defenses you can use in an underage DUI case in Lake Charles depends on the specifics of the charges. You can typically expect a Lake Charles underage DUI attorney to focus on challenging your arrest and subsequent processing. This includes:
Challenging the legality of a traffic stop
Exposing inaccuracies in field sobriety tests
Proving violations of constitutional rights
Questioning the accuracy of chemical tests
Rising BAC
How Expensive Is an Underage DUI Lawyer in Lake Charles?
How expensive an underage DUI lawyer in Lake Charles can be depends on the complexity of your case and whether or not it goes to trial. A Lake Charles underage DUI attorney may charge a flat fee or hourly rate for services, depending on the firm you hire.
Many criminal defense attorneys charge a flat fee for underage offenses. Those who charge an hourly rate may also request a retainer upfront.
Hire an Underage DUI Lawyer in Lake Charles to Discuss Your Options for Your Defense
Dealing with DUI charges is very serious, regardless of age. If your child is charged with underage DUI, it’s important to act quickly to protect their rights and to start building a solid defense against the charges.
Fortunately, you don’t have to do it alone. In fact, we encourage you to hire a Lake Charles DUI attorney to help you through your case.
For over 25 years, Stockstill Defense Firm has been handling complex criminal cases, including underage DUI. As a local law firm, we’re familiar with Louisiana DUI laws and know what to expect from state prosecutors and judges.
Whether your case is being tried through the Lake Charles City Court or the 14th Judicial District Court, our attorneys are here to help. If you’re interested in speaking about your circumstances, we can listen and provide next steps.
Reach out to our office here in Lake Charles to set up an initial consultation with a member of our team today. We’re located on Chavanne Street near I-210 and I-10 or at our other office in Lafayette.
*Awards and recognition are not guarantees of future results. Selection criteria vary by organization.
**Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own merits.
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