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As a parent, finding out your child has been arrested for driving while intoxicated is likely to conjure up a mix of emotions. While you work through your feelings of anger, stress, and worry, it’s important you jump into action right away to help ensure their rights are protected. A DWI offense is not something to take lightly, as this can have a negative impact on your child’s life for years to come. An underage DWI conviction typically carries serious punishments, including being saddled with a criminal record. Here are a few tips on what to do if your minor is accused of drinking and driving.

Steps to Take if Your Child Gets Arrested for a DWI

1. Consider the Consequences of a DWI Conviction

Being convicted of a DWI can have long-lasting consequences that affect a minor both inside and outside of the legal system. Depending on the details of your child’s charges, some of the penalties they might face include driver’s license suspension, community service, jail time, fines, and the completion of a substance abuse program. In addition, there is the potential for them to experience challenges with finding a job and getting admitted into college. It’s crucial to consider the possible ramifications before deciding on how to proceed with your child’s case.

2. Advise Them of Their Rights

DWIIt’s likely you will be the first person your child calls after getting arrested. This is the ideal time to remind them of their right to remain silent. As much as you might want to know what happened, it’s in their best interest not to explain anything to you at that moment. Chances are, they can be overheard by a police officer, who might later testify against them in court if they accidentally say anything incriminating. It’s better for them to say as little as possible and invoke their right to counsel. 

3. Contact a Criminal Lawyer

Once you find out your child is being charged with a DWI, you shouldn’t hesitate to contact a criminal lawyer. They might be able to keep the case from going to trial by negotiating a lesser charge or finding enough evidence to cause reasonable doubt in the prosecution’s argument. Be sure to choose a lawyer who specializes in DWI law and has a track record of success.

 

If your child was charged with a DWI, you will need to act quickly and consult with an experienced lawyer who will fight aggressively to keep a conviction from ruining their future. When parents in Leon County, TX, need a legal professional they can count on, they turn to The Law Offices of Charley Johnson. For more than 35 years, they have offered effective counsel and representation to juvenile clients facing legal trouble. Contact them at (903) 536-2185 to schedule a consultation, or visit their website to learn more about their practice areas.

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