Waco Juvenile DWI Defense Attorneys

Experienced Counsel Fighting for Your Child's Rights in McLennan & Comal County

When your child has been arrested for DWI, you may be wondering how this will impact their future. Texas law treats juveniles as adults in many cases. 

Fortunately, there are several ways that an experienced juvenile DWI attorney in Waco can help your child. Our firm has over 15 years of experience handling DWI cases, and we have successfully defended countless clients against DWI charges. We understand the consequences that DWI charges can have on a juvenile's future, which is why we will work tirelessly to help you and your child.

Arrested for DWI? Contact us today at (254) 237-5602 for a case evaluation.

Juvenile DWI Penalties in Texas

The penalties that your child will face will depend on their age at the time of the offense, how many prior convictions they have, and whether they were driving with a minor passenger at the time of the offense.

The following are the possible penalties for a juvenile DWI offense in Texas:

• Age at Time of Offense:
  • Under 17: A minor under the age of 17, committing their first DUI offense, would face a Class C Misdemeanor. The consequences could range from a maximum fine of $500, community service spanning 20 to 40 hours, and a driving license suspension lasting between 60 to 180 days. Additionally, the minor and their parent may be required to attend an alcohol awareness course. 

For a second offense, the penalty could include a fine not exceeding $500, a community service requirement of up to 60 hours, a driving license suspension ranging from 120 days to 2 years, and mandatory participation in an alcohol awareness course.

• 17 but under 21: A minor between the ages of 17 to 20 who commits a DWI faces a Class B Misdemeanor. The repercussions may involve a fine not exceeding $2,000, a jail term ranging from 72 hours to 180 days, and a suspension of their driving license for a year. However, there is a possibility for the driver to qualify for an ignition interlock device (IID), which could reduce the suspension period to 90 days, provided the IID is installed.

In the case of a second offense, it is categorized as a Class A Misdemeanor. The penalties can escalate to fines up to $4,000, a jail sentence from 30 days to one year, and a license suspension lasting from 180 days to 18 months.

A third offense is considered a felony DWI, with severe consequences including imprisonment for a duration of two to ten years, a hefty fine up to $10,000, and a license suspension period from 180 days up to two years.

What Is a Juvenile DWI?

In Texas, a juvenile can be arrested for DWI if they are under the age of 17 and they get behind the wheel of a vehicle while intoxicated. The penalties for a juvenile DWI will be the same as an adult DWI, except that a juvenile will be considered a minor, which means they will face harsher penalties.

If your child has been arrested for DWI, you need to contact a juvenile DWI attorney in Waco immediately. Our firm has handled countless DWI cases, and we will use our experience and expertise to help you and your child. We understand that DWI charges can have lasting effects on your child's future, which is why we will do everything we can to help you get the best possible outcome.

If your child has been arrested for DWI, contact Milam & Fanning, PLLC today at (254) 237-5602 for a case evaluation. Our attorneys serve Waco, New Braunfels & all of McLennan & Comal County.