Underage DUI Attorneys in Norman, OK 

DUI Defense Representation for Minors in Cleveland and McClain Counties and Throughout Oklahoma

Oklahoma has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving, which means that even the slightest trace of alcohol in the system of a driver under the age of 21 can lead to a criminal DUI charge. These strict laws are designed to deter young drivers from consuming alcohol and operating a vehicle, but they also come with serious penalties, including fines, license suspension, community service, and possible impacts on future opportunities.

If you or your child are facing these charges, speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to understand your rights and options. Proactively addressing the situation with proper legal guidance can make a meaningful difference in how your case is resolved.

At Schumacher Law Group, our team is made up of skilled criminal defense attorneys who regularly handle DUI cases of all kinds, including those involving underage drivers. We are led by founding attorney Tracy Schumacher, a former prosecutor and district judge. Her experience gives us powerful insights into how prosecutors and courts tend to approach these cases. We recognize what is at stake and can put your future first by working to minimize the impact of these charges on your record, education, and career opportunities. With a personalized approach, we can carefully evaluate every detail of your case to build a strong defense and fight for the best possible outcome.

Facing these charges is understandably scary, but our underage DUI lawyers in Norman, OK, are here to help. Schedule a confidential consultation today by calling (405) 643-4884 or contacting us online.

Oklahoma Underage DUI Laws

Oklahoma enforces strict laws to address underage DUI offenses. Put simply, individuals under the age of 21 are prohibited from operating a vehicle with any measurable amount of alcohol in their system. This means that even a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) as low as 0.02% can lead to significant legal consequences.

Note that if an underage driver is found to have a BAC of 0.08% or higher, they may face the same penalties as adult offenders for DUI. These penalties can include significant fines, jail time, and the loss of driving privileges.

Penalties for Underage DUI in Oklahoma

Underage DUI is classified as a misdemeanor in Oklahoma, and a conviction does not usually result in any jail or prison time. While not as serious as some felony charges, an underage DUI conviction can still lead to life-altering penalties that affect future opportunities. The specific penalties an underage driver could face if convicted depend on whether they are a first or repeat offender and the circumstances of the case.

An underage DUI conviction in Oklahoma typically carries the following penalties:

• First conviction – license revocation for up to six months, fines of up to $500, up to 20 hours of community service
• Second conviction – license revocation for up to 12 months, fines of up to $1,000, up to 240 hours of community service
• Third conviction – license revocation for up to 36 months, fines of up to $2,000, up to 480 hours of community service

A person convicted of underage DUI may also be required to complete a treatment program and install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle when they regain driving privileges. In some cases, a judge may bar a minor convicted of underage DUI from driving for two years or until they turn 18, whichever period is longer.

If someone under the age of 21 is found to have a BAC of 0.08% or higher, a DUI conviction can come with additional penalties, including:

• First conviction – ten days to one year of jail time
• Second conviction – one to five years of prison time
• Third conviction – one to ten years of prison time

Beyond these court-imposed punishments, a conviction for an underage DUI can create significant challenges that extend far into the future. One of the most concerning outcomes is the creation of a criminal record. This record can become an obstacle that follows you throughout your life, making it much harder to access opportunities that others may take for granted. 

Colleges, employers, and even landlords often conduct background checks as part of their selection processes. When they see a DUI conviction, some may view it as evidence of poor judgment or irresponsibility, regardless of how much time has passed since the incident. This perception can lead to rejection from academic programs, job offers, or housing applications that might have otherwise been within reach.

Our underage DUI attorneys in Norman, OK, understand the severity of the consequences that stem from an underage DUI conviction. With extensive experience in handling these cases, we are deeply familiar with the legal and personal challenges you are facing. We are prepared to develop a strong defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances that aims to minimize or even eliminate the impact of the charges against you. By leveraging our knowledge of DUI laws and local court systems, our team at Schumacher Law Group can work tirelessly to protect your rights and future opportunities.