Bakersfield Underage DUI Attorney
Experienced Defense for Minors Facing DUI Charges in Bakersfield, CA
If you or your child has been charged with driving under the influence while under 21, the situation can feel overwhelming. California has some of the strictest laws in the nation for underage drinking and driving, and the consequences can impact your future education, career, and driving privileges. At Humphrey & Thompson, we understand the high stakes involved in these cases. Our dedicated Bakersfield underage DUI attorneys work tirelessly to defend minors and their families, providing experienced legal guidance every step of the way.
Contact our Bakersfield underage DUI lawyer today to get started on your defense.
What is Considered an Underage DUI in California?
In California, the legal drinking age is 21. The state has a “Zero Tolerance” policy for underage drinking and driving, which means that any detectable amount of alcohol in a driver under 21 can result in a DUI charge. There are several types of underage DUI charges, each with varying degrees of severity:
- Vehicle Code 23136 – Zero Tolerance Law: A blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.01% or more can lead to an administrative license suspension, even if the driver is not impaired.
- Vehicle Code 23140 – Underage DUI with BAC of 0.05% to 0.07%: This is considered an infraction and can result in fines and license suspension.
- Vehicle Code 23152 – Standard DUI: If a minor has a BAC of 0.08% or higher, or is impaired due to alcohol or drugs, they can face standard DUI charges like an adult.
California Underage DUI Penalties
The penalties for underage DUI in California vary depending on the specific offense and whether the minor has any prior convictions. Here’s a breakdown of the potential consequences:
Zero Tolerance Violation (VC 23136):
- Driver’s license suspension for 1 year
- No jail time or fines (administrative action only)
- Possible enrollment in DUI education programs
Underage DUI (VC 23140):
- Fines up to $100
- Driver’s license suspension for 1 year
- Mandatory DUI education course
- Potential community service
Standard DUI Charges (VC 23152):
- Fines up to $1,000
- 48 hours to 6 months in jail
- Driver’s license suspension
- Probation
- DUI school (3 to 9 months)
For those under 18, cases may be handled in juvenile court, where the focus may be more on rehabilitation. Regardless of age, any underage DUI conviction can leave a mark on your driving and criminal record, affecting job applications, college admissions, and more.
criminal law specialists
Recognized by The State of California As Board Certified Criminal Defense Experts
At Humphrey & Thompson, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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- Rena B.
IF you are caught in a bad situation in life and are looking for a Lawyer and investigator to fight, do their job well in fighting to prove your innocence in your case, you need Kyle and Victor on your side!!!
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- Joe S.
His experience and knowing what to do helped and he has wisdom in sharing and saying the right thing to calm you in whatever you are going through. At times I was talked to as if I knew the law but when questioned what he was talking about he would take the time to explain. He is a very busy man so it seemed like he was hurried but would come back to explain. Happy with the outcome and glad that we were able to find a great attorney.
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- Jason G.
Mr Humphrey and his staff we nothing short of amazing to me and my family.
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- Aracele S.
I’d like to express my sincere gratitude to Kyle Humphrey at Humphrey & Thompson for his help with an unexpected case. He was highly thorough and made sure I understood every part of the process, which was especially important as this was my first and only legal matter. Many thanks to you and your team!
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- Aimee G.
The process was easy and they made it so that I didn't have to appear in court. I highly recommended them!
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Needed a lawyer for our juvenile son for a felony assault case. Public defender was not very helpful and told us that at best our son would be on a very intensive probation for years if not sentenced to a camp. Rob Singh took our case and basically got everything resolved outside of court with the prosecutor within 2 weeks. Alleviated a lot of stress and anxiety by getting our son on a very minimal probation for 6 months and then records completely sealed. Highly recommended and would definitely hire this firm again.- Erik S.
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- Jenna B.
My husband hired Jared Thompson to defend him against bogus charges. Their price was affordable and well worth the work they put in. Even though the DA's office was not helpful and kept delaying the case over and over, Mr. Thompson and his team never gave up. It was finally dismissed and we couldn't be more happy with the outcome.
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- Tina H.
My son was wrongfully accused and charged with assault. I hired Mr. Humphrey to represent him because I heard he was the best and as my son is 19 years old, I did not want this bogus charge going on his record. Mr. Humphrey did an excellent job of representing my son from day one. I am happy to say that the charges were dropped and the case was dismissed. I HIGHLY recommend Kyle J. Humphrey.
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Charges Reduced/Dismissed
Misdemeanor Sex Crime with Mandatory Sex Registration
Settled for no registration and time served after 5 days of trial ending in a mistrial. -
Charges Reduced/Dismissed
Felony Sex Crime
Client was charged with a felony sex crime . His charges were reduced to a misdeanor. He received no sex offender registration and community service instead of jail. -
Case Dismissal
Sexual Abuse
Allegation of Continuous Sexual Abuse Dismissed Before Trial. -
Case Dismissal
Felony Sex Case
Felony Sex Case based on Undercover Decoy Sting Dismissed Entirely. -
Case Dismissal
Rape
Rape Case Dismissed Based on Defense Investigation and Medical Evaluation Before Trial. -
Case Dismissal
Sexual Battery
Local business owner charged with sexual battery, dismissed. -
Jury Trial Acquittals
Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
Mr. Thompson Secures Complete Dismissal of all Charges at Jury Trial for Accusations of Molestation and Sexual Abuse of Minors
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Avoid Sex Offender Registration
Sex Offense
Juvenile Client Has Felony Sex Offense Case Dismissed and Is Not Required to Register
Don’t Let an Underage DUI Derail Your Future
An underage DUI charge in California is a serious legal matter that can affect your driver’s license, freedom, and future opportunities. With the right legal representation, you can protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome. At Humphrey & Thompson, our experienced Bakersfield underage DUI attorneys are here to help you navigate this difficult time with confidence and clarity.
Let us fight for your future. Fill out our online contact form to schedule an initial consultation.
