AKAMINE LAW – DUI DEFENSE

DUI with Minor Passenger

Man driving under the influence with a child in the rearview mirror

Let us suppose you are a parent who had a couple of drinks at a family dinner; then you’re pulled over while driving your child home. Or maybe you have a high school senior who is pulled over for a DUI with a 17-year old friend in the vehicle.

Whatever the situation, you or a loved one may be subject to the additional criminal charge of Endangering Children.

What are the penalties for misdemeanor Endangering Children?

Someone charged with a DUI while having a minor or child passenger (who was not seriously injured) can face a number of penalties, including:

  • Jail time: Up to 6 months
  • License Suspension: 12 months.
  • Fines: Up to $1,000

The punishment can also vary greatly depending on whether there have been previous DUI/OVI related child endangering offenses. You can read more about DUI penalties here.

What if the child or minor was seriously injured as a result of the DUI?

If the minor passenger was seriously injured as a result of DUI / OVI you can be charged with a felony and subjected to prison time. Child endangering is a criminal offense and will be reflected in criminal background checks. Apart from prison, a felony conviction for child endangering can result in long terms of probation and preclude possession and ownership of guns. Child endangering is a criminal offense and will be reflected in criminal background checks.

How can a lawyer help me with my DUI charge?

Courts are becoming more stringent with DUI penalties, particularly those cases that involve minor passengers. If you are accused of a DUI and had a minor in your vehicle at the time of the offense, you need an experienced DUI defense attorney. Akamine Law can help. See recent case results.

Contact Akamine Law to start fighting your DUI charge.

If you or a loved one is facing a DUI charge in Columbus, Ohio, don’t face it alone. We are here to help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards protecting your rights and fighting your DUI charge. We are ready to stand by your side and provide the expert legal guidance you need during this challenging time.