Hawaii Underage DUI Charges
Honolulu Underage DUI Lawyer – (808) 521-3367
Hawaii has adopted a “zero tolerance law” when it comes to underage DUI. A minor under the age of 21 with any trace of alcohol in their system, or any blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test result more than 0.02%, will be charged with driving under the influence (DUI).
At The Law Office of Kevin O'Grady, I lead my law firm using 25+ years of legal experience and a background as a law enforcement officer and a military prosecutor. I have the insight and knowledgeability needed to anticipate the arguments of the opposition and effectively counter them with a sound strategy. If you or your child have been charged with an underage DUI in Hawaii, you want my hard-hitting representation on your side.
Facing charges for underage DUI? Contact a Honolulu underage DUI attorney from my firm now. Call (808) 521-3367 today!
What are the Penalties for an Underage DUI in Hawaii?
- Fines
- License Suspension
- Alcohol Classes
- Community Service
- A Court Record
Do not forget that it is a petty misdemeanor in Hawaii for a minor to merely possess alcohol. The consequences of a misdemeanor conviction in juvenile court could be extensive, creating negative ripples far into your child’s life.
Understanding the Consequences of an Underage DUI
Being charged with an underage DUI can have serious consequences and impact your future in several ways. Aside from the legal penalties, such as fines, license suspension, and even jail time, you may also face long-term consequences that can impact your personal and professional life. It is crucial to understand these consequences and take the necessary steps to protect your future.
Some potential consequences of an underage DUI include:
- Difficulty obtaining future employment
- Higher insurance rates or difficulty obtaining insurance
- Disqualification from certain scholarships or financial aid opportunities
- Damage to your reputation and personal relationships
- Difficulty obtaining a professional license
Protect Your Future: The Importance of Hiring an Experienced Honolulu Underage DUI Lawyer
Being charged with an underage DUI can have serious consequences that can impact your future, including your education, employment opportunities, and even your ability to obtain a driver's license. That's why it's important to have an experienced Honolulu underage DUI lawyer by your side to navigate the legal system and work towards the best possible outcome.
At The Law Office of Kevin O'Grady, LLC, we understand the complexities of underage DUI cases and the unique challenges faced by juveniles and young adults. Our compassionate yet relentless legal counsel is dedicated to protecting your rights and advocating for your future.
When you choose us as your criminal defense team, we will:
- Thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding your charges
- Challenge any evidence that was obtained illegally or improperly
- Negotiate with prosecutors to reduce or dismiss your charges
- Advocate for alternative sentencing options to minimize the impact on your future
Common DUI Questions
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What is considered to be a DUI in Hawaii?Like most other states, drivers found to be operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) level of .08% or higher will be arrested for DUI. In order to measure a driver's BAC, officers often subject drivers to breath tests, blood tests, or urine tests. In other instances, a police officer may ask a driver to participate in a field sobriety test. In Hawaii you can be charged with per se (BAC) and or with impairment (regardless of your BAC).
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I was arrested for a DUI. When should I talk to a lawyer?Immediately. In the state of Hawaii, a police officer will issue an instantaneous driver's license revocation upon a DUI arrest. Your attorney can take steps to request and or preserve evidence early after your arrest and can also speak with witnesses or visit the scene close in time to your arrest. Your attorney will be able to represent you during this administrative hearing, as well as any type of criminal proceeding thereafter.
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What will happen to my driver's license if I do not petition a license revocation?If you fail to take action and request a hearing in a timely manner, you could be jeopardizing your driving privileges. Upon arrest, an arresting officer will issue you a Notice of Administrative Revocation. This notice will serve as a temporary driving permit for 30 days. An in-person administrative hearing must take place within 24 days of receiving a Notice of Revocation. Failure to take action on a first-time DUI offense could result in a mandatory driver's license revocation for up to 1 year.
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Is it required by law to take a breath or chemical test?You do have the right to refuse a breath or chemical test, however, you will also face possible penalties as a result of refusing a chemical test. Admittedly, chemical tests are prone to error and inaccuracy, however, it will be imperative that you listen to law enforcement officers. Refusal of a breath or chemical test could result in a license revocation for up to 2 years on a first-time offense.
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What happens if I failed a field sobriety test?Do not assume that your case will rely solely on the results yielded during a field sobriety test! Even if you have failed a field sobriety test, these tests are not always accurate and often do not take in special circumstances of the person taking the test.
For example, people with health issues, coordination issues, or sight issues may not perform in a way that would suggest sobriety. Additionally, other external factors, such as uneven roads, weather, stress, or improper administration by the police officer could lead to erroneous results.
Let's Fight Together
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Charged with DUI or OVUII in Honolulu? Discover how we can fight for your freedom! -
With a history of successful results. We can fight together.
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Hear from my former clients. Although I focus on the facts and the ethics of a case, I also make it a point to take the time to get to know my clients.
