Underage DUI
Colorado Springs Underage DUI Lawyer
Defending Minors in Underage DUI Cases in El Paso County
When you or your child faces an underage DUI charge in Colorado, the consequences reach far beyond the immediate legal penalties. Each decision made in the hours and days following an arrest can significantly impact your future opportunities - from education and employment to insurance rates and driving privileges. At Aviso Law, we understand the weight of these charges and the stress they place on families seeking to protect their young adults' futures.
Our seasoned trial attorneys bring decades of dedicated DUI defense experience to each case we handle. We recognize that underage DUI cases demand a distinct approach, as Colorado's zero-tolerance laws create unique challenges for drivers under 21. Our attorneys have successfully defended countless young clients against both UDD (Underage Drinking and Driving) and standard DUI charges, developing strong defense strategies tailored to each situation's specific circumstances.
Call (719) 356-5552 for baby DUI defense counsel in El Paso County and the surrounding areas.
What Is an Underage DUI?
In Colorado, any driver under 21 years old is subject to the state's zero-tolerance law regarding alcohol consumption and driving. While the standard DUI blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.08% for adults 21 and over, drivers under 21 can face legal consequences with a BAC as low as 0.02%. This extremely low threshold essentially means that any measurable amount of alcohol can result in an underage DUI charge, as even a single drink can put a young person over this limit.
Penalties for Underage Drinking & Driving
Under Colorado Revised Statutes § 42-4-1301(2)(d), an underage driver with a BAC between 0.02% and 0.05% faces an underage DUI charge, which, while serious, has somewhat lighter penalties than a standard DUI. Underage offenders within this threshold face the following penalties:
- First-time UDD charges are considered Class A traffic infractions, which are punishable by a fine of up to $100 and a three-month loss of your driver’s license.
- Second-time UDD charges are considered Class 2 traffic misdemeanors, which are punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $300, and license revocation for six months.
- Third-time or subsequent UDD charges are also considered Class 2 traffic misdemeanors, but the license revocation lasts for a year.
However, if an underage driver's BAC is 0.08% or higher, they will face the same DUI charges and penalties as an adult. If a person under 21 has a BAC between 0.05% and 0.08%, they can be charged with a DWAI (driving while ability impaired) offense. This can include potential jail time, significant fines, mandatory alcohol education classes, and license suspension.
Defending Against Baby DUI Charges in Colorado Springs
Your choice of legal representation matters deeply in underage DUI cases. Without proper counsel, young drivers may accept plea deals that carry unnecessary long-term consequences or miss opportunities to challenge evidence and procedures. Our client-centered approach means we take time to understand your priorities, explain your options clearly, and craft defense strategies aligned with your goals. We maintain open communication throughout your case, keeping you informed and involved in every important decision.
The time immediately following an underage DUI arrest is critical. Speaking with an experienced defense attorney can help protect your rights and preserve important defense options.
Contact Aviso Law to discuss your case with our team of proven trial lawyers.
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Clients First
Every attorney will tell you they put their clients first. That is true for Aviso Law but it’s how we go about it that sets up apart. We understand the difference between being prepared and aggressive in courtrooms, while being understanding and pragmatic in client meetings. We believe in being realistic as well as easy to work with through all the phases of your case, both in and out of court; this saves you money and time while still receiving the service you deserve with the goal of achieving desired results.
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Proven Success
To us, success isn’t measured by the years we’ve spent behind a desk but by the careers we’ve built, the contacts we’ve made, and the thousands of clients we’ve served to protect jobs, families, education, and reputations. We developed our careers in Colorado’s military and civil courts, successfully defending clients from all walks of life. We come highly rated by our clients and have received professional recognition for our work.
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Breaking the Mold
We’re not your typical law firm. We don’t wear fancy suits (unless we have to in court) and we don’t hide behind big imposing desks. Reflective on our military roots, we strive to serve. We understand the legal process can be threatening and worrisome, which is why we work with our clients to get results. We aim to be respectful, diligent, and cost-effective while practicing the highest standards of legal representation.