Citrus Heights Underage DUI Attorney

Support For Families Facing Juvenile & Underage DUI Charges

Learning that your child has been arrested or cited for driving under the influence can be one of the most stressful moments a parent faces. You may be worried about court, their license, school, and what this will mean for their future. At Walsh Law, we help families work through juvenile and underage DUI accusations and guide them through every step of the criminal process.

Our firm is led by Chris Walsh, a former Chief Assistant District Attorney and homicide prosecutor with more than 19 years of criminal law experience and over 100 jury trials. We use that background to evaluate how prosecutors may look at a young person’s case and to build a focused defense strategy. If your family is dealing with a juvenile DUI arrest from the Citrus Heights area, we are ready to talk with you, explain what comes next, and discuss how we can help protect your child’s future.

Contact us today at (916) 610-3558 to schedule a free case review.

What is Considered an Underage DUI in California?

In California, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to operate a vehicle with any measurable amount of alcohol in their system. Unlike adult DUI laws, which typically focus on a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, underage DUI laws have a zero-tolerance standard:

• BAC of 0.01% or higher: Minors can be charged with DUI.
• Driving under the influence of drugs: The same rules apply, whether the substances are prescription, over-the-counter, or illegal drugs.

Even a single drink at a party or small gathering can result in a DUI charge if the minor chooses to drive afterward. California law treats underage DUI as a serious offense, and the consequences can impact education, employment, and insurance for years to come.

California Underage DUI Penalties

The penalties for underage DUI in California differ from adult DUI penalties but can still be severe. They are designed to deter minors from drinking and driving and to ensure public safety. Typical consequences include:

• License Suspension: A minor convicted of DUI may face a suspension of their driver’s license for 1 year, depending on the circumstances of the offense.
• Fines: Court-imposed fines for first-time underage DUI offenders can range from $100 to $1,000, not including additional fees and assessments.
• Probation: Minors may be placed on probation for up to 3 years, during which compliance with all legal requirements is critical.
• Alcohol Education Classes: Many courts require attendance in a state-approved alcohol or drug education program.
• Community Service: Completing a set number of hours of community service may be mandated.
• Ignition Interlock Device: In some cases, the court may require installation of an ignition interlock device, which prevents the car from starting if alcohol is detected on the driver’s breath.

Repeat offenses or aggravating factors—such as accidents, high BAC, or possession of alcohol—can significantly increase penalties, including longer probation periods, higher fines, and potential juvenile detention.

Underage DUI FAQs

Q: Can a first-time underage DUI be avoided on my record?

A: In some cases, a skilled attorney may negotiate a diversion program or reduced charges, which can limit the long-term impact on your record.

Q: Will my parents be involved in the case?

A: Yes, because underage DUI involves a minor, parents or legal guardians are often required to attend court hearings and may be responsible for certain fines or fees.

Q: How long does an underage DUI stay on my record?

A: A conviction can appear on your driving and criminal record for several years. However, some records can be expunged under California law, depending on your age and circumstances.

Q: Can I get my license back after an underage DUI?

A: Yes, but it may require completing court-ordered programs, paying fines, and sometimes installing an ignition interlock device. Your attorney can guide you through this process.

Q: What if I refused a breathalyzer test?

A: Refusing a chemical test can result in additional penalties, including extended license suspension. An attorney can help challenge the evidence or negotiate reduced consequences.

Why Families Trust Our Juvenile DUI Representation in Citrus Heights

When you look for a juvenile DUI attorney, you are not only hiring someone to handle a case. You are choosing a team to safeguard your child’s future, reputation, and opportunities. Families turn to Walsh Law because our background and approach are tailored to the high stakes of criminal accusations against young people.

Chris Walsh served for years as a prosecutor, including as Chief Assistant District Attorney in Nevada County and as a deputy district attorney in Kings, Fresno, and Santa Clara counties. He has personally tried more than 100 jury trials, including high-profile and complex matters such as homicide and cold case murders. That experience helps us anticipate how the prosecution evaluates evidence in DUI cases involving minors and where there may be room to challenge or negotiate.

Our firm focuses exclusively on criminal defense. We are not a general practice office that splits attention among several areas of law. We intentionally accept a limited number of cases at a time so we can provide hands-on, one-on-one support to every client. We represent good people who find themselves on the wrong side of the law, and that often includes teens and young adults who made a serious mistake.

Our team brings a strong track record and professional recognition in criminal law. Chris Walsh has been selected as Prosecutor of the Year in Fresno County twice and was nominated for Trial Attorney of the Year in Santa Clara County. He is a member of the California DUI Lawyers Association, Lawyers of Distinction in Criminal Law, and has been named among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers. For parents, this combination of deep courtroom experience and focused criminal defense work is a key reason to place their trust in us.

When you are ready to talk about your child’s situation and learn how we can help, call (916) 610-3558 to connect with our criminal defense team.