Navigating the legal system is daunting for anyone, but for a minor and their family, it can be particularly overwhelming. When a young person is charged with an underage DUI in Oklahoma, the immediate stress of the arrest is often just the beginning. The long-term consequences can profoundly impact their future, affecting everything from their education to their career opportunities.
Oklahoma’s “Zero Tolerance” Law
Oklahoma has a “zero tolerance” policy for underage drinking and driving. This means that a driver under the age of 21 can be charged with an Actual Physical Control (APC) or DUI offense if they are found with any measurable amount of alcohol in their system—specifically, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02% or higher. It’s important to understand that this is a much lower threshold than the 0.08% BAC limit for adults. This strict law means that even a single drink can lead to a charge.
Immediate and Lingering Penalties
The penalties for an underage DUI conviction are designed to be a deterrent, and they can be severe and far-reaching. While a first-time offense for a minor may be a misdemeanor, the consequences are anything but minor:
Driver’s License Suspension: A driver's license can be suspended for six months for a first offense, one year for a second offense, and three years for a third or subsequent offense. This loss of driving privileges can severely impact a teen's ability to get to school, work, or other important activities.
Fines and Court Costs: The financial burden of an underage DUI includes fines up to $500, in addition to other court fees and costs. These expenses can be a significant strain on a family’s finances.
Mandatory Programs: Offenders may be required to complete an alcohol and drug assessment and follow through with any recommended treatment or education programs, such as the ADSAC course. These programs can be time-consuming and add to the overall cost.
How a Conviction Impacts Their Future
The repercussions extend far beyond the immediate legal and financial penalties. A criminal record, even for a misdemeanor, can create significant hurdles for a young person as they transition into adulthood.
Education and Scholarships: A criminal conviction can impact a student's eligibility for scholarships, grants, or federal student aid. Many college applications also require disclosure of criminal history, which could influence admissions decisions.
Employment Opportunities: In today’s competitive job market, employers often conduct background checks. A DUI conviction can limit a young person’s career options, particularly in fields that require driving or a high level of trust.
Insurance Rates: After a DUI conviction, car insurance rates can skyrocket. This long-term financial penalty can be a heavy burden for both the young driver and their parents.
A Strategic Defense Can Protect Their Future
Facing an underage DUI charge can feel like an impossible situation, but it’s crucial to remember that a charge is not a conviction. With the right legal team, you can build a strong defense aimed at protecting your child's future. Our attorneys at Hunsucker Legal Group meticulously review every detail of the arrest—from the traffic stop to the field sobriety tests and chemical tests—to identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. We work tirelessly to explore every possible avenue for a favorable outcome, whether that means a dismissal, a reduction of charges, or a victory at trial.
Don't let one mistake define your child's life. The stakes are too high. We are ready to put our decades of experience and legal knowledge to work for you.
Call us at (405) 544-2992 to get the conultation you need.
