If you are charged with driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII or DUI) and you are under the age of 21, it's important to put your case in the hands of a professional. The consequences of a DUI arrest in Oregon can be scary due to zero-tolerance laws. If you are a juvenile, you will likely be charged as an adult.
I am Portland DUI defense attorney Andy Green. As a former CLS prosecutor for the Multnomah County District Attorney's Office in Oregon, I know how the state handles underage DUI cases. This puts me in a good position to identify defenses. I am often hired by parents who want to protect their children from the serious and costly penalties that come with a conviction.
What if My Blood Alcohol Content Was Below .08?
If you are under 21, your blood alcohol content (BAC) does not have to be over .08 before you can be charged with DUI. Any alcohol in your system — even .01 — can lead to DUI charges.
However, just because you tested with alcohol in your system does not mean the state can convict you of DUI. There are many issues that can be challenged, including the breath test, the field sobriety test, probable cause for making the traffic stop and the handling of blood test results. Even police conduct at the scene can often be challenged for violation of your rights. If police made mistakes, the DUI charges may be dismissed or negotiated to a lesser offense.
If this is your first offense, one possible resolution is DUI diversion. If you successfully complete the year-long diversion program, the court will dismiss your DUI and you will not have a conviction on your record. As your lawyer, I will explain your options and shepherd you through the process.
Contact Oregon Underage DUI Charges Attorney Andy Green
You should not rely on information you read about underage DUI charges on the Internet, as it may be wrong, outdated, or not apply to your situation. It's always best to discuss your case with an experienced Portland underage DUI charges defense lawyer. For a free initial consultation, call 503-388-4362 or send me an e-mail through this website. From my office in the World Trade Center in downtown Portland, I represent clients in Multnomah County, Clackamas County, Washington County and communities throughout Oregon.
