Being charged with underage DUI is a serious matter—especially for a young person with their whole future ahead of them. In Maryland, even a first-time offense can lead to license suspension, probation, mandatory alcohol education, and a permanent public record. These consequences can affect college admissions, job opportunities, and more.
If your child has been charged with underage DUI in Baltimore or anywhere in Maryland, don’t wait to take action. The Bishop Law Group is here to help your family navigate the juvenile justice system and fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact our Baltimore DUI lawyers for a free consultation. We understand how to protect your child’s rights and future.
What Families Should Know About Driving Under the Influence Charges
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense, especially for minors. In Maryland, anyone under 21 is not allowed to have any alcohol or drugs in their system while operating a vehicle.
Even small amounts can lead to criminal charges. With the legalization of marijuana for adults, DUI cases involving teens are expected to increase. Contact a Baltimore criminal defense lawyer for representation if your child has been charged with an underage DUI.
How DUI Charges Are Made
Police officers are trained to look for signs of impairment during traffic stops. They may use standardized field sobriety tests (SFTs), such as walking in a straight line or standing on one leg.
These tests are not always accurate and can be hard even for healthy, coordinated individuals. Officers may also ask for a breath test, but if the juvenile refuses, proving alcohol use becomes more difficult.
Despite this, officers may still charge a juvenile with DUI based on behavior, speech, or appearance. According to recent trends, police are more likely to charge minors in borderline cases than adults, even when evidence is limited.
For a free legal consultation with a dui lawyer serving Baltimore, call (410) 390-3101
Marijuana and DUI Enforcement
Although marijuana is now legal for adults in Maryland, it remains illegal for anyone under 21. If an officer smells marijuana during a traffic stop, it can raise suspicion and lead to further investigation. Officers are receiving more training to detect marijuana-related impairment, but the accuracy of these methods is still being debated.
In many cases, drug recognition experts (DREs) are not present during the arrest. Without expert testimony, it becomes harder for the prosecution to prove impairment. Baltimore underage DUI lawyers often challenge the officer’s observations, question the reliability of field tests, and argue that the stop lacked probable cause.
Legal Consequences for Juveniles
Juvenile DUI charges are handled in Maryland’s juvenile court system. While first-time offenders are unlikely to face jail time, the consequences can still be serious. A conviction may result in:
- License suspension or revocation
- A permanent criminal record
- Difficulty applying to schools or jobs
In 2024, the Attorney General of Maryland reported over 7,800 juvenile arrests, with DUI and drug-related offenses making up a growing share. These numbers show the importance of acting quickly when a child is charged.
Baltimore DUI Lawyer Near Me (410) 390-3101
Protecting Your Child’s Future
A DUI charge at age 16 or 17 should not define a child’s future. With the right legal support, it is possible to reduce or dismiss charges, avoid court, or reach a fair resolution.
An experienced juvenile defense attorney can guide families through every step—from intake hearings to trial—while working to protect the child’s rights and future opportunities.
If your child has been charged with DUI or violating a license restriction, contact a qualified attorney immediately. Early action can make a meaningful difference in the outcome of the case.
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Trusted Underage DUI Lawyers in Baltimore
At The Bishop Law Group, we understand how overwhelming it can be when your child is facing DUI charges. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling juvenile cases and are committed to protecting your child’s future. Whether the case involves alcohol, marijuana, or other substances, we provide strategic defense from intake through resolution.
Our underage DUI attorneys in Baltimore work to reduce or dismiss charges, challenge questionable evidence, and ensure your child’s rights are fully protected. Our goal is to minimize long-term consequences and help your family move forward with confidence.
If your child has been charged with DUI or a related offense, don’t wait to seek legal guidance. Contact The Bishop Law Group today to schedule a confidential consultation.
Call or text (410) 390-3101 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
