Phoenix Underage DUI Lawyer
Everyone makes mistakes, especially when they’re young. When an underage person is charged with driving under the influence, they face charges with serious consequences. Our young people deserve a lawyer who is experienced, tenacious, and ready to advocate for their rights and their future. That’s where The Koplow Law Firm comes in.
I’ve been practicing law for over two decades. That includes giving training seminars to other lawyers on how to handle DUI cases. I’m the kind of lawyer you want handling your underage DUI case.
Call my Phoenix office at (602) 560-7837. You can also use the online contact form to request a free consultation.
Underage DUI Law in Arizona
Underage DUI charges in Arizona apply to those under 21 caught driving or in control of a vehicle with any level of alcohol in their system. This is often referred to as a “Baby DUI,” a distinct charge from standard adult DUIs.
If an underage DUI case involves aggravating factors, it may be transferred to adult court. During a transfer hearing, the court evaluates whether the case should remain in the juvenile system or be prosecuted in adult court, with the decision hinging on public safety and the juvenile’s potential for rehabilitation.
Arizona law (A.R.S. § 13-504(D)) outlines specific factors judges must consider when determining if an underage DUI defendant should be tried as an adult:
- The seriousness of the offense.
- The juvenile’s prior criminal or court history, and whether they’ve previously been on probation or committed to juvenile facilities.
- The juvenile's mental state, emotional maturity, and prospects for rehabilitation.
The goal of the legal system is to balance accountability with rehabilitation, thereby providing for both public safety and the juvenile's opportunity for reform.
The Consequences of Underage DUIs
The legal penalties for an underage DUI typically include fines and court costs, which can place a significant financial burden on young individuals and their families. Courts may also require the completion of alcohol education or treatment programs. For many first-time offenders, community service. However, repeated offenses lead to harsher outcomes, which may involve jail time.
Driving privileges are often suspended or revoked immediately, even for first offenses. Regaining these privileges may require steps like installing an ignition interlock device, which prevents a vehicle from starting if alcohol is detected. For repeated offenses, the suspension periods grow longer, potentially delaying the ability to drive independently for years. These restrictions can impact daily life and future opportunities.
Educational consequences can also arise following a DUI. Depending on the school or college’s policies, suspension or expulsion may occur. Certain scholarships and financial aid could also be at risk, adding another layer of stress for both defendants and their families. Participation in extracurricular activities, such as sports or clubs, might be restricted, which can limit personal growth and development opportunities.
Employment opportunities can be affected. Jobs that require a clean driving record, such as delivery or rideshare work, may no longer be accessible. Employers may terminate an underage worker because of liability concerns. A criminal record can also make future job applications more difficult.
The financial impact of a DUI stretches far beyond fines imposed by the court. Increased car insurance premiums, or even losing coverage altogether, can make owning a vehicle more expensive. Additionally, the stigma of a criminal record can cause personal embarrassment and affect personal relationships. Having a DUI on your record can create struggles with renting apartments or passing certain background checks, which adds to the challenges of moving forward in life.
This underscores the importance of having an experienced defense lawyer who will work to dismiss charges or reduce the consequences.
Compassion With Accountability
Driving under the influence is a serious matter that carries potential consequences for everyone involved. It puts lives at risk, and society is right to promote responsible driving to protect public safety. However, we must also recognize that mistakes happen. Good people can find themselves in difficult situations, often as the result of a single lapse in judgment. This is particularly true for underage people.
Being charged with a DUI doesn’t mean someone is a bad person-- it means they need a chance to address the situation, learn from it, and make positive changes moving forward.
Meanwhile, law enforcement officers tasked with ensuring public safety are only human. They can make errors during traffic stops or misinterpret evidence, which underscores the need for a fair and thorough legal defense. It’s well possible that a defendant, underage or otherwise, might not be guilty of the crime they are charged with.
Everyone deserves the right to have their side of the story heard. A strong legal defense is done to make sure facts are closely examined, errors are brought to light, and justice is applied fairly. When legal challenges arise, an experienced attorney can make all the difference in helping young people move forward.
Serving Phoenix, Scottsdale, and the Surrounding Area
Facing an underage DUI can be hard, but exploring these defense options with the help of an experienced lawyer like me can provide hope for a better resolution. Mistakes don’t have to define the future. I’m here to fight for you.
Call The Koplow Law Firm at (602) 560-7837 today. I’m available 24/7 and can meet either in person or virtually, whichever works best for you.
Hear From the People We’ve Helped
Testimonials and Reviews
At The Koplow Law Firm, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"Great trial attorney."
Lawrence is tenacious, relentless, and extremely passionate about his clients and their cases. He leaves no stone unturned in his investigations, and his cross examinations are grueling. His knowledge of the science of DUI's and the testing procedures is unsurpassed. Great trial attorney.
- Jesse S. -
"Unquestionably one of the top DUI/ criminal defense attorneys in Arizona."As a practicing attorney in DUI and criminal defense, and as a former prosecutor who went against Lawrence on several cases, I can attest that the State knows they will have their hands full when Lawrence is on the case.- Ryan M.
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"You cannot go wrong with Lawrence."
Great attorney! Lawrence thinks outside the box and goes above and beyond for his clients and the legal community at large. If you are looking for aggressive representation, you cannot go wrong with Lawrence.
- Charity C. -
"No other lawyer knows the science of DUI like Lawrence does."Lawrence is the best lawyer I have ever met. If your career is on the line then he is the guy. No other lawyer knows the science of DUI like Lawrence does. I will be forever grateful!- Greg S.
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"It was miracle!"
It was miracle!... A lot of people don't really understand the benefit of having an attorney who used to be a prosecutor. They know all the little tricks and scare tactics the state has as opposed to just hiring an attorney who is a little fish in a big pond.
- Joe C. -
"One of the best."Lawrence Koplow is one of the best DUI and vehicular defense attorneys in the state of Arizona. Anyone would be extremely fortunate to have him as their advocate.- Jack L.
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"You cannot go wrong with Lawrence."Lawrence thinks outside the box and goes above and beyond for his clients and the legal community at large. If you are looking for aggressive representation, you cannot go wrong with Lawrence.- Charity C.
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"Nobody knows the court and laws better than him."Lawrence represents very high-profile clients who greatly depend on a good outcome, and this guy will deliver. This is a prosecutors' worse nightmare, and it should be that way if you need an attorney.- David E.
DUI Library
The best DUI defense stuff that only a few know and none want to share. A one of a kind annotated resource for lawyers, people accused, or anyone who wants to see what’s going on in our justice system with DUI cases… and how to fix it.
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Scottsdale DUI Definitive GuideScottsdale DUI Definitive Guide
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The Definitive Guide to Defeating an Arizona DUIThe Definitive Guide to Defeating an Arizona DUI
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Field Sobriety Tests in Arizona DUI CasesField Sobriety Tests in Arizona DUI Cases
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Traffic Stops in Arizona DUI CasesTraffic Stops in Arizona DUI Cases
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Warrantless Blood Draws in Arizona DUI CasesWarrantless Blood Draws in Arizona DUI Cases
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Right to Counsel in Arizona DUI CasesRight to Counsel in Arizona DUI Cases
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Failure to Preserve EvidenceFailure to Preserve Evidence
