Underage Minor DWI

Minor DWI in Pearland, Texas: Laws, Punishment & Fines

Experienced Underage DWI Lawyers for Juveniles Under 18 in Pearland, TX

In Pearland, Texas, the courts take a stern stance when it comes to charges of drunk driving, even if the accused is under 18 or has not yet reached the legal drinking age of 21. If you are facing a DWI charge as a juvenile, it’s crucial to secure the services of an experienced defense attorney. At Alston Landry Law Firm, our team of underage DWI lawyers is ready to assist you. We offer round-the-clock phone support for emergencies.

Pearland, TX Takes Juvenile Drunk Driving Seriously

Pearland, Texas, like the rest of the state, is committed to addressing the issue of underage individuals drinking and driving, given the number of alcohol-related accidents involving young people. Strict laws and severe penalties have been enacted to combat underage drunk driving. Whether it’s a first-time minor DWI offense or not, the consequences of a conviction can be significant and long-lasting. It’s imperative to hire an attorney with a proven track record in defending DWI charges.

Pearland, TX Laws Regarding Underage DWI

In Pearland, Texas, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is defined under the Texas Penal Code, Section 49.04, as operating a motor vehicle in a public place while:

“intoxicated” is defined as not having the normal use of mental or physical faculties due to the introduction of alcohol, a controlled substance, a drug, a dangerous drug, a combination of two or more of those substances, or any other substance into the body; or having an alcohol concentration of 0.08% or more.

Determining whether an individual is intoxicated behind the wheel is accomplished through testing their blood alcohol concentration (BAC). In Pearland, Texas, the BAC limits for drivers are:

• 21 and Older: 0.08%
• Commercial drivers: 0.04%
• Younger than 21: Any detectible amount

Underage Drunk Driving is Termed DWI in Pearland, TX

In Pearland, Texas, it is unlawful for a minor to consume any amount of alcohol and operate a motor vehicle in a public space. This prohibition extends to operating watercraft in addition to motor vehicles and is referred to as the Texas Zero Tolerance Law. Consequently, the state has established a distinct drinking and driving offense for minors arrested with a BAC of less than 0.08% while operating a vehicle. This offense is termed “Driving While Intoxicated” (DWI) and is applicable exclusively to drivers under the age of 21 who have not reached the legal drinking age.

Penalties for Underage DWI

Texas DWI laws outline penalties for first, second, and third DWI offenses. The penalties for underage DWI in Pearland, Texas include:

First Offense

• Class C Misdemeanor
• Fine: Up to $500
• Mandatory attendance at an alcohol awareness class
• Community service: Between eight and twelve hours
• Driver’s license suspension: Up to 30 days

Second Offense

• Class C Misdemeanor
• Fine: Up to $500
• Potential attendance at an alcohol awareness class
• Community service: Between twenty and 40 hours
• Driver’s license suspension: Up to 60 days

Third Offense

• Class C Misdemeanor
• Fine: Up to $500
• Possible attendance at an alcohol awareness class
• Community service: Between 40 and 60 hours
• Driver’s license suspension: Up to 180 days, with no option for an occupational license

The penalties for underage DWI in Pearland, Texas are heightened if the driver is aged seventeen or older and has a BAC of 0.08% or higher. These increased penalties include:

• Fine: Up to $2,000
• Jail term: Between three and 180 days
• Driver’s license suspension: Between 90 days and one yea