Ellis County and Navarro County Underage DWI Attorney
Protecting the Future of Young Drivers in Ellis & Navarro County
Texas has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21 who are charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI). If you are under the age of 21 and have any detectable amount of alcohol in your system, you can be charged with an underage DWI under the state's zero-tolerance law.
A conviction for underage DWI can have a serious impact on your future. In addition to criminal penalties, you will also have a criminal record that can follow you for the rest of your life. If you have been charged with underage DWI, it is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to understand your legal rights and options.
At The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford, PLLC, we are committed to helping young drivers in Ellis County and Navarro County and the surrounding areas who have been charged with underage DWI. We know what is at stake and will fight to protect your future.
Call our firm today at (214) 903-7722 or online to schedule a free consultation with our underage DWI lawyer in Ellis County and Navarro County. We look forward to serving you.
What Is the Underage DWI Law in Texas?
Under Texas law, a person under the age of 21 commits an offense if they have any detectable amount of alcohol in their system while operating a motor vehicle in a public place. An underage DWI is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $500 and mandatory community service.
Additionally, the person's driver's license will be suspended for 60 days for a first offense. For a second or subsequent offense, the driver's license will be suspended for 120 days. If the person refuses to submit to a blood or breath test, the driver's license will be suspended for 180 days.
Understanding the Consequences of Underage DWI
Facing an underage DWI charge can be daunting, especially for young drivers and their families. It’s essential to understand the potential legal ramifications and how they can impact your future. At The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford, PLLC, we are committed to guiding you through this challenging time with compassion and expertise.
Here are some key consequences of an underage DWI conviction in Texas:
- Fines and Court Costs: A conviction can lead to substantial fines, which can vary based on the circumstances of the case.
- License Suspension: Young drivers may face a suspension of their driving privileges, which can affect school and work commitments.
- Community Service: Courts may impose community service requirements as part of the sentencing.
- Alcohol Education Programs: Offenders may be required to attend mandatory alcohol awareness classes.
- Impact on Future Opportunities: A DWI conviction can hinder college admissions, job prospects, and insurance rates.
Our experienced legal team understands the complexities of underage DWI cases and is dedicated to providing personalized strategies to mitigate these consequences. We believe that every case is unique, and we will work tirelessly to protect your rights and future. If you or a loved one is facing an underage DWI charge, don’t hesitate to reach out for a consultation.
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Our Satisfied Clients
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“Eager to help, knew the law, honest, and stands by his word.”
Michael Crawford is awesome. He is by far the best defense mechanism We've seen around this town n a very long time if evr.exactly what we needed.he was so eager to help, knew the law, honest, and stands by his word. He actually works for u, his client. Even if court-appointed he seems to give 110%. Just imagine what he would do if he was getting paid. He shows me money is not everything! He is really in it to HELP his clients. My opinion is Micheal Crawford is a one of a kind lawyer.- Becky -
“Michael is not just my attorney, he is also my friend now because he is just that nice of a person.”
Michael J. Crawford is a graduate of Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law in Dallas. He chose to open his own law practice in his hometown of Kerens in lieu of practicing with a big firm in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. He works hard for clients. He is known as the "Blue Collar Lawyer" because he gives 110% effort for every client. I was very impressed with his professionalism, understanding, and expression of sincerity while he was handling my case. Michael is not just my attorney, he is also my friend now because he is just that nice of a person. Thanks, Michael for protecting my rights.- Jaclynn -
“Not only does he care about his client, but he will also care for your family and keep them aware.”
“- JohnIf you want a lawyer that will pour his extensive knowledge of the law and the people of Navarro County into your case, this is the lawyer for you.
He stood up to the small town Justice System, that continually beat him down, but not once gave up
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“As a satisfied client, I highly recommend Michael J. Crawford.”
- Former ClientMr. Crawford was able to represent my wishes and balance that with a sensible plan while taking the appropriate time to compassionately explain the process to me, answer all my questions and really listen to my concerns. Mr. Crawford was honest, knowledgeable, and aggressively fought for a successful outcome.
As a satisfied client, I highly recommend Michael J. Crawford.
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“If u need someone he would be the one to use!!!”
He does a really great job!!! very smart!! will help u in any wy!! love what he's doing!!!this is the kinda lawyer we been needing here in this area!!! the other lawyer all play along with the other lawyer but Micheal stand along an get the job done!! he has a great staff that has it so simple for him!! if u need someone he would be the one to use!!!- Timothy -
“It was obvious at every moment of the trial that he was there to defend his client”
Mr. Crawford was the attorney for my nephew - I sat in court the 5 days of court - and observed Mr. Crawford for the entire trial - it was obvious at every moment of the trial that he was there to defend his client -- and defend, he did. He was wonderful!- Millie -
“He is very knowledgeable and passionate about the law.”
Mr. Crawford was awesome at handling my complex custody issues. Through the process, trumped-up charges were brought against me. Mr. Crawford was available over the weekend and at night at the peak of my issues when I needed him the most. His advice was on point and everything worked out like he advised it would. He is very knowledgable and passionate about the law. He doesn't just make deals. He fights for justice and wins.- Lance -
“He knows the people, he knows the law and will not let you down.”
Michael Crawford and his associates went above and beyond to help us with a very complex case resulting in a much more favorable divorce settlement than we ever thought would happen. He took a personal interest, showed compassion and understanding and his patience was that of Job. He is passionate about his work as well as fair, tough and blunt. He is aggressive and one time said, "I love to fight" -- exactly what I am looking for in a lawyer. I would recommend his office to anyone looking for a tough, smart lawyer. He knows the people, he knows the law and will not let you down.- lschnellmann
Will I Have a Criminal Record for an Underage DWI?
Yes, an underage DWI conviction will result in a criminal record. This means that the conviction will appear on your background checks and can be seen by potential employers, landlords, and others. Having a criminal record can make it difficult to get a job, find housing, secure a loan, and more.
However, if you are able to keep your record clean for a certain period of time, you may be eligible for an expunction or non-disclosure order. An expunction is the complete removal of your criminal record, while a non-disclosure order will seal your record from public view. Our underage DWI attorney in Ellis County and Navarro County can help you determine if you are eligible for either of these options.
Can You Go to Jail for an Underage DWI in Texas?
While jail time is not a direct penalty for a first-time underage DWI, it is possible if you are a repeat offender. If you have been previously convicted of underage DWI, a second offense is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by 3 to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, and a driver's license suspension of up to 1 year. A third or subsequent offense is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by 30 days to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, and a driver's license suspension of up to 2 years.
Additionally, if you are arrested for underage DWI but have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, you can also be charged with standard DWI. A first-time DWI is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by 72 hours to 180 days in jail, a fine of up to $2,000, and a driver's license suspension of up to 1 year.
How Long Does an Underage DWI Stay on Your Record in Texas?
An underage DWI conviction will remain on your criminal record indefinitely unless you are able to get it expunged or sealed through a non-disclosure order. For a first-time underage DWI offense, you may be eligible for a non-disclosure order if you have successfully completed any court-ordered community service and have not been convicted of any other offenses for at least 180 days. If you are convicted of a second or subsequent offense, you will not be eligible for a non-disclosure order.
Defending Against Underage DWI Charges in Texas
At The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford, PLLC, we know that an underage DWI conviction can have serious consequences. Our Ellis County and Navarro County underage DWI lawyer is prepared to fight for you. When you retain our firm, we will conduct a thorough investigation into your case, review all available evidence, and craft a strong defense strategy on your behalf.
Our firm can help you fight your underage DWI charges by proving:
- You were not operating the vehicle
- You were not in a public place
- The traffic stop was illegal
- The breathalyzer results were inaccurate
- You were not under the influence of alcohol
Remember, you are innocent until proven guilty, and the prosecution has the burden of proving your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Our underage DWI attorney in Ellis County and Navarro County will challenge the evidence against you and fight aggressively for a favorable outcome.
To speak with our experienced Nola family lawyers, give us a call at (214) 903-7722 or contact us online today.
Why Choose The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford?
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All Initial Consultations Are FREE of Charge
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Se Habla Español
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Board Certified as a Specialist in Criminal Law by Texas Board of Legal Specialization
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We Take Your Calls and Texts 24/7 - Here When You Need Us
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Client & Peer Reviewed 5 Stars for Quality Representation
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Over 200 Criminal Cases Taken to Jury Trials
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Extensive Courtroom Experience and Longstanding Reputation with Local Judges
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20% Discount to Veterans and Current Military or Civil Service
Get the Aggressive Defense You Deserve
If you or your child has been charged with underage DWI, it is important to get legal help as soon as possible. Our firm can provide the strong defense you need to fight the charges and protect your future.
Call (214) 903-7722 or contact us online to speak to our underage DWI lawyer in Ellis County and Navarro County today. We offer free initial consultations.
