Braden & Tucci Braden & Tucci
949-996-0170

Anaheim Underage DUI Attorney

Defending Your Child’s Future

A single mistake can carry lifelong consequences, especially for drivers under 21 facing DUI charges in California. If you or your child has been arrested for underage DUI in Anaheim, it is critical to act quickly. California enforces strict zero-tolerance alcohol laws for drivers under 21, and an underage DUI conviction can lead to license suspension, fines, increased insurance rates, and even jail time in certain circumstances.

At Braden & Tucci, we understand how frightening and overwhelming an underage DUI arrest can be. Our legal team is committed to protecting the rights and futures of young drivers in Anaheim and surrounding communities. We carefully analyze every detail of your case to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and pursue the best possible outcome.

When your future is on the line, working with an experienced Anaheim underage DUI lawyer can make all the difference.

Call Braden & Tucci at (949) 996-0170 to schedule your confidential consultation. We are here to help protect your child’s future in Anaheim.

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Understanding Underage DUI in Anaheim

Under California law, drivers under the age of 21 are held to stricter standards than adult drivers. An underage driver can be charged with DUI in several different ways depending on their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level and the circumstances of the arrest.

An underage DUI arrest can affect:

  • College admissions
  • Scholarships and financial aid
  • Employment opportunities
  • Professional licensing
  • Auto insurance rates
  • Criminal record history

Even a first offense can follow a young person for years. This is why it’s so important to have a dedicated Anaheim underage DUI lawyer advocating on your behalf from the beginning.

California Underage DUI Laws & Penalties

California has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under 21. This means that any detectable amount of alcohol in a minor’s system can lead to serious consequences.

Here’s how the law breaks it down:

BAC of 0.01% or higher

If a driver under 21 is found to have a BAC of 0.01% or higher, they can face:

  • A one-year driver’s license suspension
  • Mandatory DUI education programs
  • Fines and fees
  • Court appearances

This penalty can occur even if the driver is not impaired.

BAC of 0.05% or higher

If a minor has a BAC of 0.05% or higher, they may face:

  • Longer license suspension
  • Larger fines
  • Community service
  • Mandatory alcohol education classes

BAC of 0.08% or higher

If a driver under 21 has a BAC of 0.08% or more, they can be charged under standard California DUI laws, just like an adult. This can result in:

  • Criminal DUI charges
  • Heavy fines
  • Probation
  • DUI school
  • Possible jail time
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device
  • A permanent criminal record

DUI with Drugs (DUID)

Even without alcohol, a minor can face DUI charges if they are suspected of driving under the influence of drugs, including marijuana or certain prescription medications.

The consequences of these charges go far beyond fines and court dates. That is why it is essential to consult an experienced Anaheim underage DUI lawyer as soon as possible.

Underage DUI vs. Adult DUI in California

Many people assume an underage DUI is “less serious” than an adult DUI, but that is far from the truth. While penalties may differ, the impact can be equally – if not more – damaging for a young person.

Key differences include:

  • Zero-tolerance BAC threshold for minors
  • Immediate license suspension
  • Greater effect on education and employment
  • Long-lasting criminal and driving record consequences

Even if this is your first interaction with the law, handling it properly is critical. An experienced Anaheim underage DUI lawyer can guide you through the process and protect your future.

Underage DUI FAQs

Is underage DUI in California a felony or misdemeanor?

Most underage DUIs are charged as misdemeanors, but aggravating factors such as accidents, injuries, or prior convictions could increase the severity.

Will my license be suspended even for a low BAC?

Yes. Under California’s zero-tolerance law, even a BAC of 0.01% can result in a one-year suspension.

Can an underage DUI be expunged?

In some cases, yes. After successfully completing probation and other court requirements, you may be eligible for expungement. An Anaheim underage DUI lawyer can help you explore this option.

What if I refused a breath or blood test?

Refusal can result in additional penalties, including longer license suspension. However, it may also eliminate certain evidence, which can be used in your defense.

Should I handle this without a lawyer?

Attempting to face underage DUI charges alone can be extremely risky. A skilled attorney understands the legal system, deadlines, procedures, and defense strategies that significantly increase your chances of a positive outcome.

    We help you move forward

    • “The outcome far exceeded the expectations that were initially set.”

      - Isaac G.

    • “Mr. Tucci is an aggressive bulldog attorney that you want representing you!”

      - Bree R.

    • “Thank you again, Mr. Tucci, through your efforts you have altered the course of my life. Truly the greatest to have ever done it.”

      - Less F.

    What sets us apart:

    • Zealous, Individualized Representation for Your Case
    • Proven Successes in Trial, in Court & with the DMV
    • Certified in Alcohol Screening & Field Sobriety Testing
    • Southern California’s Most Respected DUI Attorney
    • Former President of the CA DUI Lawyers Association
    • Southern California’s Most Aggressive and Successful DUI Attorney

    Why Choose Braden & Tucci for Anaheim Juvenile DUI Defense?

    Not all legal teams offer the same approach or results. At Braden & Tucci, our firm is exclusively dedicated to DUI and DMV defense work. This focus keeps us fully up to date on the latest local laws, complex forensic issues, and the rules that specifically affect minors and young adults facing DUI allegations in California.

    Attorney Vincent Tucci leads our team. He holds the AV Preeminent® Rating from Martindale-Hubbell®, which reflects the highest level of legal skill and professional ethics. He is a past President of the California DUI Lawyers Association, co-chair of the DUI Committee for California Attorneys for Criminal Justice, and a longtime member of the National College of DUI Defense. Attorney Tucci is also certified in field sobriety testing and the maintenance of breath test devices, bringing both technical and trial experience to each defense.

    We never hand cases off to support staff or less-experienced lawyers. Our clients and their families have direct access to an experienced attorney from the first call through resolution. This hands-on, personal service is why families across Anaheim trust our team during one of the most challenging times in their lives.

    If your child is facing an underage DUI charge in Anaheim, contact our team to quickly understand your options and start building a defense.

    Contact Us for a Consultation

    We Know What You're Facing. We Know How To Win.

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