Honolulu Underage Dui Lawyer

As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Honolulu is a bustling and thriving city with a sizeable youth population. For underage drivers, the consequences of a DUI can be particularly serious. Anyone under 21 convicted of this crime could have their license revoked, spend time in jail, and be ordered to pay large fines. Anyone facing these charges can rely on a Honolulu underage DUI lawyer to defend them in court.

A Trusted Law Firm Representing Underage DUI Defendants

At The Law Office of R. Patrick McPherson, we understand how high the stakes are for drivers under 21 facing DUI charges. A conviction can lead to license suspension, mandatory education programs, steep fines, and long-term consequences for your future.

With decades of experience in handling DUI cases across Oahu, our firm knows how to challenge the evidence and protect your rights. We take a tailored approach to every case, and our attorneys don’t rest until we explore every possible strategy for having our clients’ charges reduced or dropped.

Understanding Underage DUIs in Honolulu

In Hawaii, young drivers can obtain an instruction permit at 15.5 and a full driver’s license by age 17. With so many teens behind the wheel, underage DUI enforcement remains a pressing issue in Honolulu. In September 2023, a 19-year-old woman was arrested in nearby Aiea after a crash allegedly involving alcohol, highlighting how quickly a situation can escalate for drivers under 21.

From January to November 2024, Honolulu saw around 22,390 traffic collisions on Oahu, including 41 critical injuries and 35 fatalities. Between November 2024 and January 2025, police made 49 impaired driving arrests across the Big Island.

Even more concerning, between 2022 and 2023, nearly 300 drivers were arrested for DUI despite having blood alcohol levels below the legal limit. Sixty-nine of them had a 0.00 reading. These numbers suggest that DUI enforcement can be aggressive. For drivers under 21, even minimal suspicion can result in serious consequences.

Potential Consequences of an Underage DUI Conviction

A DUI conviction under age 21 can create serious hardships and long-term setbacks for your future. You could lose your license for over one year, be ordered to participate in a substance abuse program, or face jail time at Oahu Community Correctional Center (2199 Kamehameha Hwy).

Arrests often happen near busy areas like Beretania Street or King Street, and even a 0.00 BAC reading isn’t always a protection. For minors, a conviction also counts as a prior offense. This can increase the penalties for any future traffic-related charges or encounters with law enforcement.

How an Attorney Can Fight Your Charges

Having legal representation can greatly improve your chances of a favorable outcome to your charges. An attorney can challenge the stop itself, dispute the chemical test’s accuracy, and push back on assumptions made by law enforcement.

If your BAC was below 0.08, or even zero, your attorney may argue that you were wrongly charged. Defense strategies also include questioning field sobriety test results and cross-examining the officer’s statements. Strong legal representation can uncover procedural errors or constitutional violations that could lead to reduced penalties or case dismissal.

Why Legal Representation Matters

Navigating an underage DUI charge without legal assistance can be daunting. An attorney can provide invaluable support, from court appearances at the Honolulu District Court (1111 Alakea Street) to negotiating for reduced penalties.

They can advocate for alternatives to incarceration, such as community service or diversion programs, helping clients avoid time at the Oahu Community Correctional Center. Given the high-traffic areas like King Street and Beretania Street, legal counsel can assert one’s rights throughout the judicial process.

FAQs

What Is the Legal Alcohol Limit for Drivers Under 21 in Hawaii?

In Hawaii, drivers under 21 are held to a zero-tolerance standard. A blood alcohol concentration of 0.02% or higher is enough for a DUI charge. This low threshold means even one drink may trigger penalties. Arrests can lead to license suspension, fines, mandatory education programs, and a criminal record that impacts school, employment, and future driving privileges statewide.

What Happens After an Underage DUI Arrest in Honolulu?

After an underage DUI arrest in Honolulu, the driver faces two separate actions: a criminal charge and an administrative license revocation. The ADLRO may suspend driving privileges immediately. Court proceedings determine further penalties such as fines, counseling, and community service. Minors may also be required to attend hearings with their parents or guardians and complete youth-focused rehabilitation programs.

Can a Minor Be Jailed for DUI in Hawaii?

Yes, Hawaii law allows jail time for underage DUI convictions. A first offense can result in up to five days in jail, depending on the circumstances. Aggravating factors such as high blood alcohol levels, speeding, or having passengers may increase these penalties. In some cases, community service and probation are ordered as alternatives to confinement, but judges have discretion to impose jail sentences.

How Long Will a License Be Suspended for an Underage DUI?

A first underage DUI conviction in Hawaii typically results in a 180-day license suspension. Repeat offenses or refusal to submit to chemical testing may lead to a suspension of one year or longer. The suspension can begin through administrative action, even before the court process is complete. Reinstatement often requires participation in education programs and the installation of an ignition interlock device.

Contact The Law Office of R. Patrick McPherson Today

An underage DUI in Honolulu can result in license suspension, fines, community service, and a permanent criminal record. Hawaii’s zero-tolerance policy means that even a small amount of alcohol can lead to serious consequences. Moving quickly gives you the strongest chance of avoiding penalties that could follow you into adulthood.

The Law Office of R. Patrick McPherson defends young drivers facing DUI and traffic-related charges throughout Honolulu and the island of Oahu. With decades of courtroom experience, we understand how to handle these cases with care while fighting to protect your future. Contact our office today. We offer support in Spanish and Ilocano, and our firm provides discounts to military members.