Knoxville Underage Driving While Impaired Charges

DUI Defense Attorney in Knoxville for Underage Drivers Facing Charges

For drivers between the ages of 16 and 21, it only takes a blood alcohol content of .02% to be charged with driving while impaired. This charge also applies to driving under the influence of drugs, whether legal or illegal. It is classified as a delinquent act for drivers ages 16 and 17 and a Class A misdemeanor for drivers ages 18 to 20.

If you or your son or daughter has been arrested for underage driving while impaired, your best course of action is to consult with an experienced Knoxville DUI lawyer with a track record of success. In addition to loss of driving privileges, conviction of underage driving while impaired can have financial consequences and a negative impact on prospects. These charges should not be taken lightly!

Parents who have never dealt with the juvenile or criminal court system are often unsure what to expect after an arrest. A juvenile DUI attorney Knox County families can turn to should be prepared to explain how hearings work in Knox County Juvenile Court or Knox County Criminal Court, what deadlines you are facing, and what options may be available to protect a young person’s future. Taking the time to get clear, case-specific advice early in the process can help you avoid mistakes that might make the situation worse.

Robert R. Kurtz, Attorney at Law, has been defending clients in all types of DUI matters for 24 years. He has been awarded a 10.0 Superb Avvo Rating and a Martindale-Hubbell® BV® Rating. You can see for yourself his long list of impressive case results.

Call (865) 896-9779 today to set up a consultation, or contact us online to learn more.

Dedicated Defense against Underage Driving While Impaired in Knoxville

For a first offense with no aggravating factors, underage driving while impaired is punishable by driver's license suspension for 1 year and a fine of $250, plus possible public service work, if imposed by the court. The defendant is not eligible for a restricted driver's license (to get to school or work), as an adult driver convicted of DUI might be.

However, the consequences of conviction do not stop there;

• When your driving privileges are restored, your insurance rates almost certainly will go up.
• You may be denied admission to the college of your choice, or enrollment may be suspended.
• You could lose a scholarship or financial aid, and student housing.
• Future employment prospects could be negatively impacted by a conviction on your record.

Beyond these penalties, there are often practical questions about how a conviction will affect life in the short and long term. A juvenile DUI lawyer Knoxville parents hire should be ready to discuss issues such as transportation to school or work during a suspension, how to answer questions from colleges or employers, and what steps you can take to begin repairing the damage. By looking at the whole picture, you can make more informed choices about whether to fight the charge, seek alternative resolutions, or pursue other options available in the Knoxville courts.

In some cases, the way the traffic stop, roadside tests, or breath tests were conducted may become a key issue in the defense. An underage DUI attorney Knox County residents retain can review police reports, dash cam or body cam footage, and other records to determine whether constitutional rights were respected during the investigation. Careful attention to these details may open the door to filing motions, negotiating for reduced consequences, or presenting a stronger defense at a hearing in the appropriate Knox County court.

What To Expect in the Juvenile and Criminal Court Process

After an arrest for underage driving while impaired, your case may be handled in Knox County Juvenile Court or Knox County Criminal Court, depending on the age of the driver and the specific charge. At the first appearance, the judge will typically advise the young person of the charge and possible penalties and set future court dates. Having an underage DUI lawyer Knoxville families can rely on at this stage means you will have guidance on what to say, what not to say, and how each decision made in court can affect education, employment, and driving privileges.

As the case moves forward, there may be hearings on motions, discussions with the prosecutor about possible resolutions, and preparation for trial if that becomes necessary. Your lawyer can evaluate whether diversion, alternative sentencing, or other options allowed under Tennessee law might be available in your situation. Parents and young drivers often feel intimidated walking into the courthouse, but understanding the structure of the proceedings and having someone familiar with local judges, prosecutors, and procedures beside you can make the process more manageable and less confusing.

Attorney Kurtz was named Top DUI Attorney in Knoxville by Cityview Magazine in 2011. He has helped many clients in a wide range of state and federal criminal defense matters. He is a seasoned Knoxville criminal defense attorney, dedicated to protecting your rights and aggressively fighting for your best interests. Do not take chances when your future is at stake!