Being arrested for operating under the influence (OUI) – sometimes used interchangeably with terms like driving under the influence (DUI or DWI) – while underage is not just a legal issue—it is a life-altering event. At ages 17 or 20, a drunk driving charge brings more than embarrassment; it risks a criminal record, loss of license, and possible jail time. If you are in this situation, you are likely overwhelmed and looking for someone who will take your situation seriously and fight back.
At Erkan & Sullivan, PC, we understand exactly what is at stake. Our DUI attorneys have spent more than four decades handling serious legal matters in state courts. We do not back down. If you are facing charges, you need a legal advocate who knows how prosecutors build these cases and how to properly scrutinize them. The earlier a skilled Andover underage DUI lawyer works with you, the more control you gain over the direction of your case.
The state holds younger drivers to a stricter standard. A blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.02 percent is enough to trigger license suspension under the state’s zero-tolerance policy. This suspension happens through the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) and does not require proof of impairment. Under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 § 24, the charge of OUI usually applies when a driver is impaired or has a BAC of 0.08 percent or more.
If you are facing an underage OUI charge, acting quickly with the help of an Andover attorney matters. Refusing a breath test leads to immediate suspension, and the RMV can impose penalties before the case even reaches a courtroom. These cases move quickly, and without early legal action, you can lose opportunities to protect your record and license.
A conviction at a young age can have consequences far beyond the courtroom. For non-citizens, even a misdemeanor offense can interfere with immigration proceedings. Applications for green cards, visa renewals, or naturalization may be delayed or denied if your case involves aggravating factors such as controlled substances or a prior record. If you are facing a DUI charge as a minor in Andover, a defense lawyer can account for immigration risks at every stage of your case.
These situations require more than basic representation. Our lawyers take the time to understand your goals, identify threats beyond the criminal court, and develop a plan that protects your long-term future. We are not here to process paperwork. Instead, we can defend what matters most—your record, your freedom, and your ability to move forward.
Underage alcohol-related cases are prosecuted aggressively. Courts often expect swift resolutions and impose harsh administrative penalties regardless of guilt. Evidence such as field sobriety tests and chemical results is frequently treated as unquestionable, even when procedures were flawed or rights were violated. That is where strategy matters.
Hiring an OUI attorney for underage cases means working with a defense team in Andover that knows how to push back. At Erkan & Sullivan, PC, you work directly with two experienced lawyers who prepare every case themselves. We identify weaknesses early, challenge questionable evidence, and refuse to accept outcomes that unnecessarily damage your record, your license, or your future.
If prosecutors charge you or your child with an OUI, you should not waste time. An Andover underage DUI lawyer from our team can take immediate steps to protect your rights and begin building a defense focused on minimizing long-term consequences. These cases move rapidly, and early intervention can make all the difference to the outcome.
At Erkan & Sullivan, PC, you will work directly with skilled trial lawyers who know how to challenge evidence, negotiate effectively, and push for results that protect your future. We approach every case with focus, strategy, and integrity. Contact us today to get the defense you need.
(978) 474-0054 