What to do if Your Child is Arrested for DUI

Getting a driver’s license is a ticket to freedom for many teenagers, but many quickly find that it also means a lot of responsibility for their mistakes. This includes the consequences of drinking while under the age of 21 and then getting behind the wheel of a car. This is extremely dangerous for all drivers, and as such it is prosecuted heavily, resulting in jail time, large fines, and suspension of driving privileges, even to minors under the age of 18. On this blog, we look at a few things you can do as a parent if your child is arrested for DUI.

Helping While Teaching a Lesson

We occasionally hear that parents want their child to learn a lesson so they hesitate to help them through this ordeal. However, this isn’t always the best option, as there are some things that your child really could need help with. If they have been arrested, it’s likely that your child has already spent at least several hours in jail, had their car impounded, been handcuffed, and been processed and fingerprinted. This can be a terrifying and embarrassing experience.

It’s okay to want your child to take care of their responsibilities as a result of this lack of judgement on their own, but it’s also prudent as a parent to stay on top of them and make sure they are handling them. For example, your child only has ten days to request a hearing for their DUI case, or else they lose the right to that hearing and will have to deal with the consequences for the rest of their life.

If your child reached out to you first regarding your arrest, it is likely because they trust you and are looking for the support that only a parent can provide. You can have them handle their business like an adult while still guiding them through the process. This will not only teach them the lesson they need to learn, but ensure that they get the best possible outcome as well.

Likewise, you may be able to protect some of your child’s future by retaining a skilled Bakersfield DUI attorney on their behalf. If you get the dreaded phone call saying that your child has been arrested, the very next call you make should be to a skilled lawyer who can help them with their case. In many instances, DUI attorneys can put the law on your side and fight to have charges reduced or dropped based on a number of differing factors, which can in turn help your child be able to keep things such as scholarships, driving privileges, reduced fines, and even possibly have their record rescinded or reduced, which can dramatically improve employment and housing application prospects.

At Campbell Whitten, we have helped thousands of clients face their DUI charges with confidence. Our substantial experience and detailed legal knowledge make us a powerful ally in your corner all throughout your case. We have received numerous accolades for our service, including being named one of the 10 Best Law Firms in Client Satisfaction by the American Institute of Criminal Law Attorneys, and a Premier DUI Attorney by the American Association of Attorneys.