Underage DUI Attorney in Doral
Facing Underage DUI Charges? Get Help from Local Advocates Who Understand Doral’s Courts
If your child or teen faces an underage DUI in Doral, the consequences can be immediate and personal. Florida’s zero-tolerance stance on underage drinking and driving places minors at risk for harsh penalties, even with a low blood alcohol level.
Legal involvement moves quickly—especially with local law enforcement and the Miami-Dade Juvenile Justice Center—leaving parents searching for answers and guidance. At Beckham Law Firm, we help families navigate these cases with clarity, supporting them every step of the way while focusing on limiting the impact on your child’s record and future.
Call (786) 244-8010 or reach out online now for a confidential consultation with an underage DUI attorney in Doral who has a 90% success rate. Hablamos español.
Understanding Florida's Underage DUI (Zero Tolerance) Law
Florida's system subjects drivers under the age of 21 to two different and independent legal proceedings after an arrest, both of which we must defend simultaneously.
The Administrative Zero Tolerance Suspension (F.S. 322.2616)
This action is brought by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) and is not a criminal offense.
- BAC Limit: It is unlawful for a driver under 21 to operate a vehicle with a BAC of 0.02% or higher.
- Consequence: A first violation results in an immediate 6-month license suspension. Refusal to submit to a breath test results in an automatic one-year suspension.
- The 10-Day Deadline: You have only 10 calendar days from the date of arrest to request a formal review hearing to challenge this administrative suspension. Missing this deadline results in an automatic loss of driving privileges.
The Criminal DUI Charge (F.S. 316.193)
If the minor's BAC is 0.08% or higher, or if the officer believes their normal faculties were impaired, the minor can also be criminally charged under the general DUI statute.
- BAC 0.08%: Charged as a First-Degree Misdemeanor (up to 6 months in jail).
- BAC 0.15% or Minor Passenger: If the BAC is 0.15% or higher, or if a minor was in the vehicle, the maximum jail sentence increases to 9 months.
Our firm understands this dual threat. As skilled litigators, we fight to prevent the criminal conviction while simultaneously working to save the client's administrative driving privilege. We speak Spanish, allowing us to clearly explain the complexities of both proceedings to clients and their families.
Penalties and Collateral Consequences for Young Drivers
The penalties for an underage DUI conviction or a Zero Tolerance suspension are designed to be punitive and often have greater long-term consequences on a young person's life than on an adult's.
Direct Administrative Penalties
- License Suspension: 6 months for a first $\mathbf{0.02\%}$ violation; 1 year for a subsequent violation or a first refusal.
- Mandatory Course: If the BAC is 0.05% or higher, the suspension remains in effect until the driver completes a substance abuse course and evaluation.
- Addictions Facility: If the driver is under 18 and has a BAC of 0.02% or higher, police may transport them to an addictions receiving facility.
Educational and Professional Consequences
- Scholarship Loss: A criminal conviction or even a lengthy suspension can impact eligibility for academic and athletic scholarships and entry into some universities.
- Employment: Many entry-level and professional jobs require a clean driving record and background check, making a conviction a permanent barrier.
- Insurance Costs: The conviction or even the administrative suspension results in the requirement for SR-22 insurance, leading to dramatically increased premiums for years.
As your underage DUI attorney in Doral, we fight to keep your record clean, protecting your educational and professional future.
VICTORY BEGINS WITH Beckham Law Firm
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2nd Degree Murder – Case DismissedAt 7:43 PM, the Defendant who was a Miami-Dade Public Transit employee surrendered at the Miami-Dade Police Department. The Defendant and the victim engaged in a heated verbal dispute over which exit door the victim was supposed to utilize. The victim was belligerent and yelled obscene remarks to the Defendant who remained on the driver’s seat. The victim reached the Defendant driver’s side window and states the Defendant yelled “F****, Die b****, Jesus is going to kill you.” The Defendant proceeded to intentionally drive and steer the bus in the direction of the victim, cause the bus to run over the victim, leaving the victim under the bus. The victim was transported to Aventura Hospital in critical conditions. The victim sustained fractures to his left foot, left acetabular fracture, C5/ 6 interior superior end plate fractures, C4 transverse process fracture, left pulmonary contusions, contusions to the right hip, and abrasions to the right knee. The Defendant was charged with 2nd degree attempted murder.
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Battery on a Elderly Person – Case DismissedAt 5:59 PM, law enforcement was dispatched in reference to domestic battery between husband, wife and daughter. Upon arrival, the officer made contact with victim 1 who was in distress and crying. Victim 1 stated that the Defendant became upset while at home and that the Defendant started to break things around the house then pulled her hair while he would break her face to put up a right fist. Victim 1 stated that she has been living in fear since she married the Defendant. Victim 1 also stated that he has become verbally and physically violent multiple times in the past but never wanted to call the police until today that he pulled her daughter’s hair. The officer then approached the Defendant and charged him with Battery on an Elderly Person.
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Domestic Violence Strangulation – Case DismissedAt 4:38 PM law enforcement began to investigate, both the Defendant and Victim 1. The Defendant was taken into custody and taken into interview room for further questioning. The Defendant admitted that he and victim 1 were involved in a verbal dispute but denied that the incident ever became physical. The Defendant and the victims were inside the Defendants vehicle when the argument occurred. Victim 1 explained that the argument escalated when the Defendant slapped her on the left side of her face and moments later on twice on her left thigh. Upon arrival at their home, the Defendant grabbed victim 1 by her hair and shoved her on the bed and mounted her as she now laid next to victim 2. The Defendant then took a black semi-automatic handgun from his waist and stated aloud “Do you want to die today!” Victim 2 began to cry and Victim 1 fled the residence with their child. Victim 1 during the investigation disclosed the Defendant had battered her in the past and provided photographs of the three other events. The Defendant denied this accusations and advised that he was unaware she was injured on those dates. The Defendant was arrested and charged with domestic violence strangulation.
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Aggravated Battery on an Elderly Person – Charges DismissedAt 4:53 pm officers responded to a disturbance and upon arrival met with the elderly victim who stated that the Defendant and her had gotten into a verbal disagreement which then escalated into a physical altercation. The Defendant had struck the victim with a broom stick, a piece of a door frame and slapped her several times in the face with an open palm. The Defendant also placed a cloth towel into the victim’s mouth and held it there as she began to choke. Victim had an abrasion on her left forearm, lower back pain and shoulder pain. The Defendant was arrested and charged with aggravated battery on an elderly person.
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Aggravated Assault w/ Deadly Weapon, Domestic Violence, and Child Abuse – Case DismissedAt 4:28 PM, officer was dispatched in reference to a domestic disturbance between a father and son. Upon arrival, the officer made contact with the Defendant who stated he had a physical altercation with his father. The Defendant stated that he arrived to the residency where he lives with his mother and father; and then a verbal argument ensued with his father which led them to confronting each other in the backyard of the residence. The Defendant also states that his father struck him on the right side of his face causing a litigation to his right eyebrow. The officer observed a strong odor of alcohol from the Defendant. The victim stated the Defendant arrived to the residence in a bad mood and began to argue with his mother at which time the victim intervened. The victim also states that the Defendant repeatedly struck him while they were on the ground. The mother of the Defendant then confirmed this. The Defendant was arrested and charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, domestic violence strangulation, and child abuse.
Our Trial-Tested Defense Strategy: Focused on Suppression
Our firm’s 90% success rate is based on aggressively challenging the evidence in both the administrative and criminal arenas. We leverage our skills as skilled litigators to attack the procedural flaws inherent in DUI stops.
1. Attacking the Administrative Suspension (DHSMV Hearing)
The Formal Review Hearing is often our best chance to save the license. We challenge the suspension based on three key issues:
- Probable Cause: Did the officer have probable cause to believe the driver was under 21 and had any alcohol level before the stop?
- Lawful Detention: Was the detention lawful before the breath test was administered?
- BAC Accuracy: Did the breath test correctly show a BAC of $\mathbf{0.02\%}$ or higher?
We use the hearing to cross-examine the officer, gathering sworn testimony that can be used to discredit the evidence in the criminal court.
2. Scientific Challenge to BAC Results
Even though the limit is low, we still challenge the reliability of the Intoxilyzer 8000. For a 0.02% reading, minor issues can trigger a false positive.
- Rising BAC: We argue that the alcohol may have been consumed just before driving and was rising, but was below the 0.02% threshold at the time the person was actually operating the vehicle.
- Device Maintenance: We scrutinize the 60-day maintenance logs and calibration records for the device used by the arresting agency in Doral.
3. Seeking Diversion and Expungement
In situations where a conviction is possible, we aggressively pursue options that minimize the long-term record:
- Plea Reduction: We negotiate to reduce the criminal DUI (F.S. 316.193) to a lesser charge, such as reckless driving, or to secure a dismissal.
- Record Sealing/Expungement: For young clients, we prioritize a strategy that allows the conviction (or the arrest) to be sealed or expunged from the public record after the case is closed, protecting future opportunities.
Why Families Across Doral Rely On Our Underage DUI Legal Team
When seeking an underage DUI lawyer in Doral, families want support that goes beyond legal forms. Our attorneys include former Miami-Dade County prosecutors and a former public defender. This unique background gives us insight into how the local court system actually works and allows us to guide families based on years of experience. We have handled thousands of criminal cases in Miami-Dade, building strong relationships with local prosecutors and judges.
Our approach means clients receive personal, direct guidance—24/7 and always in both English and Spanish—at every stage, from the initial call to final resolution.
- Decades defending Miami-Dade youth: Our attorneys understand the local juvenile system’s policies and practices.
- Recognized legal excellence: Our senior lawyers maintain AV Preeminent® ratings from Martindale-Hubbell and an A+ rating with the BBB.
- Family-focused approach: We answer every question so your family always knows the next step.
- Bilingual support: Every team member speaks English and Spanish fluently, ensuring clear communication.
- Free consultations day or night: Reach out by phone any time or schedule a convenient virtual meeting.
Serving Doral and the broader Miami-Dade area gives us practical insight into how underage DUI cases progress locally. We regularly interact with Doral law enforcement and court personnel, so we recognize patterns and expectations specific to this region. Our continual communication keeps families confident and prepared. We believe trust grows from consistent updates, so we keep you informed as your child’s case moves forward.
Take the Next Step—Speak with Our Doral Underage DUI Attorney Team Today
If your child faces an underage DUI charge in Doral, connect with Beckham Law Firm for honest answers and focused guidance from a team that knows the local system. You will receive clear explanations, support in your native language, and insight into every stage.
Regain control and peace of mind—call (786) 244-8010 or fill out this online form any time for a free, confidential consultation by phone or virtual meeting. Our team is ready to help you move forward with confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will an underage DUI stay on my child's record in Florida?
Underage DUI records can have long-lasting effects, but some cases may qualify for sealing or expungement based on the charge and outcome. An attorney can explain specific eligibility and what steps to consider.
How does a Doral underage DUI case differ from adult cases?
Underage DUI cases move through the juvenile justice system, which emphasizes rehabilitation rather than punishment. However, the case can still lead to serious consequences that may impact driving privileges and future opportunities.
What penalties could my child face for underage DUI in Doral?
Penalties often include license suspension, community service, alcohol education, and probation. The court may also order counseling or treatment depending on the facts and the youth’s prior record.
Can parents attend hearings in underage DUI cases?
Parents generally have the right to be present during all juvenile court proceedings and should stay involved to help support and guide their child throughout the process.
What should I do immediately after my child is arrested for DUI?
Stay calm, contact an underage DUI attorney in Doral, and avoid letting your child answer questions without legal advice. Early involvement from a lawyer ensures your child's rights stay protected from the start.
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Is My DUI Arrest Valid?
If You Answer “YES” to Any of the Questions Below, You May Have An Excellent Defense To Your DUI Case
Regarding The Stop
Did the police pull you over for no reason?
Did the police tell you a reason, but issued you a citation for a different reason?
Was your vehicle parked when the police first came in contact with you?
Did you pull over as soon as you became aware you were being stopped?
Did you pull over without weaving or swerving?
Were you stopped by the police at a DUI checkpoint?
Were you outside the vehicle when the police arrived?
Regarding The Field Sobriety Tests
Did the police officer fail to inform you that the field sobriety tests are voluntary?
Did nervousness or exhaustion affect your performance on the field sobriety tests?
Did you have any physical problems, which would affect your performance on the field sobriety tests?
After you were placed under arrest, did the police read you your Miranda warnings?
Were the field sobriety tests performed close to or on the roadway?
Did the officer administer the tests on a surface which was not well lit, clean and flat?
Did you perform the tests with high heels on?
Regarding The Breath Test
Did the police “persuade” you into taking the breath test?
Did the police tell you to “keep blowing” during the breath test?
Did the police need several breathalyzer attempts to get a final reading?
Did the police fail to observe you for 20 minutes prior to the test?
Were you wearing removable dentures during the breath test?
Did you consume your last alcoholic drink within one hour of taking the breath test?
Is your breath reading below a .11?
Is there a variation in the breath readings?
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What Qualifications Should A Miami Murder Attorney Have?
Selecting the right Miami murder attorney requires focusing on certain qualifications crucial for robust defense. A reputable attorney should have extensive experience specifically in handling murder and other serious felony charges within Miami’s judicial system. Knowledge of local laws, strong negotiation skills, and a track record of successfully navigating complex cases are essential. At Beckham Law Firm, we provide our clients with dedicated attorneys who have decades of collective experience, including backgrounds as prosecutors and public defenders—offering clients a unique advantage in strategizing their defense. It's essential to choose an attorney who prioritizes client communication and transparency, ensuring your needs and concerns are at the forefront of the defense strategy.
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How Are Murder Cases Typically Resolved In Miami?
Murder cases in Miami can be resolved through various means, depending largely on the evidence, individual circumstances, and defense strategy. Most cases go through a pretrial process where negotiations occur, potentially resulting in plea agreements that could spare the accused from maximum sentencing. However, when evidence strongly favors the defense, going to trial might be the best option. At Beckham Law Firm, our team is equipped with the knowledge and experience of Miami's courts to leverage opportunities for case resolution that benefit our clients. By understanding the specifics of each case, we aim to achieve outcomes such as charge reductions or trial dismissals, while maintaining the integrity of our client's rights and reputation.
What Should I Do If I Face a Criminal Charge?
The criminal courts in Miami-Dade County have their own procedures, prosecutors,
and judges. Familiarity with these local dynamics can give your defense a significant
edge. A Doral criminal defense attorney understands the nuances of the regional court
system, giving your case the tactical advantage it needs.
Why Partner with Beckham Law Firm?
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Distinguished ReputationOur reputation is backed by numerous awards and recognitions.
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Comprehensive Team ApproachWe give you the benefit of three accomplished attorneys.
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35 Years of Combined ExperienceOur team will help you get the results you deserve.
Stay In The Know
What to Expect from the Underage DUI Defense Process in Doral
You deserve to know how the local process really works. When you choose an underage DUI attorney in Doral, you gain a partner to help you anticipate every major step. Here’s what happens once you reach out:
- Personal consultation: We start by listening to your concerns and explaining the process in straightforward terms—no confusing legal jargon.
- Review of the case: Our team assesses the details, investigates local circumstances, and explains how Doral police and prosecutors often handle underage DUI charges.
- Communication with your family: We keep you informed and guide you through each step, from first court appearances to the court’s final decision.
- Development of a defense plan: We evaluate alternatives such as available diversion programs or restorative options that may reduce the court’s impact on your child’s future.
The Doral juvenile court process often begins with a detention hearing within 24 hours of an arrest. Early legal input can influence release conditions and the court’s recommendations, making prompt action vital. The Miami-Dade juvenile system moves at a steady pace, requiring families to make decisions quickly at several points.
We walk you through what to expect at intake, preliminary hearings, and assessments, so you always understand your choices and next steps. After each milestone, we update you and ensure nothing comes as a surprise.
Don't risk your college and career prospects. Secure a defense from an underage DUI attorney in Doral who is a skilled litigator and boasts a 90% success rate. Hablamos español. Call (786) 244-8010 or reach out online now.
hear how we made a difference
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"They went above and beyond with closing everything in a timely manner."
The staff at Beckham Solis did an amazing job handling my case. They went above and beyond with closing everything in a timely manner. They were very reasonable with pricing and very flexible with payment. Barbara was very helpful answering any questions or concerns that I had. I highly recommend these law professionals to handle any legal matters you may need resolved.
- Joel D. -
"They made a difficult situation better."Few years back I ran into some legal trouble and was recommended to Beckham Solis by a friend. I had never had to deal with any of this so, it was quite terrifying, to be honest. I walked into his office a nervous wreck, walked out confident and taken care of. Great service. Answers all calls whenever you need help and advice; they made a difficult situation better. I greatly recommend this firm the best !- Carlens E.
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"Great response rate, amazing customer service."Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, has always been available to answer all my questions. They offer a great response rate, amazing customer service, and a team that genuinely cares about its clients. Thank you, everyone, for everything!- Fabrizio Q.
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"Professional, attentive, and efficient."Service has been top-notch since February. Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, are professional, attentive, efficient, experienced, and qualified. My case was quickly resolved, and I'm very thankful. Extremely happy with the outcome and highly recommend this firm.- Carolina G.
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"Experience, expertise, and support."I worked with Beckham Solis, Attorneys at Law, for two years. Their experience, expertise, and support helped me make the best decision to save my life. I was facing serious time, but it was all adjudicated. They got me out of the worst time of my life. Th- J.D.
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"Knowledgeable, skilled professionals!"I'm so happy I found these lawyers on the Internet. I was very nervous and scared when I walked into the office, thinking a bad outcome could change my life drastically. They were able to get my case dismissed! I highly recommend Beckham Solis, Attorneys a- Leonel D.
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"Thanks to their experience and hands on attitude my case was dismissed."
I highly recommended Beckham & Solis, for a top notch professional & straight forward criminal defense representation. They are fast, on point & available at anytime. Thanks to their experience and hands on attitude my case was dismissed. It is a total life changer. Thanks so much to the whole team you are the Best!
- Luis C. -
"Top notch attorneys and staff that are fully committed."
Top notch attorneys and staff that are fully committed to walking you through every step of the legal process. I would recommend this legal powerhouse to anyone who is seriously looking to challenge their case and expecting a positive outcome. Thank you for everything Beckham and Solis!!
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