Juvenile DWI Attorney in Ellis County
Protecting Your Child's Future & Rights
At the Law Office of Michael J. Crawford, we understand the stress and uncertainty that arise when your child faces a juvenile DWI charge in Ellis County. Our proximity to local courthouses ensures that we can respond swiftly, providing the effective, assertive representation your child deserves.
The Ellis County Juvenile Court System plays a unique role in juvenile DWI cases, focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment. However, navigating this process can be complex without experienced legal guidance. We provide insights into these procedures, informing parents and young clients about what to expect at each step.
Additionally, the county places significant emphasis on community service and restorative justice, aiming to integrate young offenders back into society while teaching them valuable lessons about responsibility. We harness these opportunities to advocate for beneficial outcomes that prevent a single mistake from defining your child's life.
A skilled underage DWI lawyer in Ellis County is ready to fight for your rights. We offer free consultations and bilingual services in English and Spanish. Call (214) 903-7722 now or contact us online.
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Our Satisfied Clients
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“Eager to help, knew the law, honest, and stands by his word.”
Michael Crawford is awesome. He is by far the best defense mechanism We've seen around this town n a very long time if evr.exactly what we needed.he was so eager to help, knew the law, honest, and stands by his word. He actually works for u, his client. Even if court-appointed he seems to give 110%. Just imagine what he would do if he was getting paid. He shows me money is not everything! He is really in it to HELP his clients. My opinion is Micheal Crawford is a one of a kind lawyer.- Becky -
“Michael is not just my attorney, he is also my friend now because he is just that nice of a person.”
Michael J. Crawford is a graduate of Southern Methodist University Dedman School of Law in Dallas. He chose to open his own law practice in his hometown of Kerens in lieu of practicing with a big firm in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. He works hard for clients. He is known as the "Blue Collar Lawyer" because he gives 110% effort for every client. I was very impressed with his professionalism, understanding, and expression of sincerity while he was handling my case. Michael is not just my attorney, he is also my friend now because he is just that nice of a person. Thanks, Michael for protecting my rights.- Jaclynn -
“Not only does he care about his client, but he will also care for your family and keep them aware.”
“- JohnIf you want a lawyer that will pour his extensive knowledge of the law and the people of Navarro County into your case, this is the lawyer for you.
He stood up to the small town Justice System, that continually beat him down, but not once gave up
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“As a satisfied client, I highly recommend Michael J. Crawford.”
- Former ClientMr. Crawford was able to represent my wishes and balance that with a sensible plan while taking the appropriate time to compassionately explain the process to me, answer all my questions and really listen to my concerns. Mr. Crawford was honest, knowledgeable, and aggressively fought for a successful outcome.
As a satisfied client, I highly recommend Michael J. Crawford.
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“If u need someone he would be the one to use!!!”
He does a really great job!!! very smart!! will help u in any wy!! love what he's doing!!!this is the kinda lawyer we been needing here in this area!!! the other lawyer all play along with the other lawyer but Micheal stand along an get the job done!! he has a great staff that has it so simple for him!! if u need someone he would be the one to use!!!- Timothy -
“It was obvious at every moment of the trial that he was there to defend his client”
Mr. Crawford was the attorney for my nephew - I sat in court the 5 days of court - and observed Mr. Crawford for the entire trial - it was obvious at every moment of the trial that he was there to defend his client -- and defend, he did. He was wonderful!- Millie -
“He is very knowledgeable and passionate about the law.”
Mr. Crawford was awesome at handling my complex custody issues. Through the process, trumped-up charges were brought against me. Mr. Crawford was available over the weekend and at night at the peak of my issues when I needed him the most. His advice was on point and everything worked out like he advised it would. He is very knowledgable and passionate about the law. He doesn't just make deals. He fights for justice and wins.- Lance -
“He knows the people, he knows the law and will not let you down.”
Michael Crawford and his associates went above and beyond to help us with a very complex case resulting in a much more favorable divorce settlement than we ever thought would happen. He took a personal interest, showed compassion and understanding and his patience was that of Job. He is passionate about his work as well as fair, tough and blunt. He is aggressive and one time said, "I love to fight" -- exactly what I am looking for in a lawyer. I would recommend his office to anyone looking for a tough, smart lawyer. He knows the people, he knows the law and will not let you down.- lschnellmann
Understanding Texas Underage DWI Laws
In Texas, a "minor" is defined as any individual under the age of 21. Because minors are not legally permitted to consume alcohol, Texas has enacted specific laws to address underage drinking and driving, distinct from the adult DWI statute (Texas Penal Code § 49.04).
Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol by a Minor (DUIA by Minor - Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 106.041):
This is the primary statute for underage DWI charges, often referred to as "DUI by a Minor" even though the formal charge is DUIA. It is a "Zero Tolerance" law. A minor (under 21) commits an offense if the minor operates a motor vehicle in a public place while having any detectable amount of alcohol in the minor's system.
This is the key. Unlike adults who have a 0.08% BAC legal limit, a minor can be charged under this statute with a BAC as low as 0.001% (i.e., any trace amount). This makes it very easy for a minor to face charges.
- Classification: A first offense DUIA by a minor is typically a Class C Misdemeanor punished with:
- Fine: Up to $500.
- Driver's License Suspension: 60-day suspension. For the first 30 days, there is typically no eligibility for an occupational license.
- Community Service: 20 to 40 hours, usually related to alcohol misuse education or prevention.
- Alcohol Awareness Course: Mandatory attendance and completion of a course approved by the Texas Commission on Alcohol and Drug Abuse. The court may also require a parent or guardian to attend with the minor.
Driving While Intoxicated (DWI - Texas Penal Code § 49.04) for Minors:
Even though the Zero Tolerance law exists, a minor can still be charged with the more serious adult DWI offense if their Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or greater, or if they have lost the normal use of their mental or physical faculties due to alcohol or drugs.
- Classification: A first offense DWI (with a BAC of 0.08% or higher, or proven impairment) for a minor is a Class B Misdemeanor, which carries significantly harsher penalties than a Class C Misdemeanor DUIA. This means jail time is a possibility. Penalties for a Class B Misdemeanor includes:
- Jail Time: Minimum of 72 hours up to 180 days in county jail. (Minimum 6 days if an open container is present.)
- Fines: Up to $2,000.
- Driver's License Suspension: 90 days to 1 year.
- Annual Surcharge: $1,000 or $1,500 for three years imposed by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
- DWI Education Program: Mandatory.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Possible installation as a condition of bond or probation, or to reduce license suspension to 90 days if community supervision is granted.
Administrative License Revocation (ALR) Process for Minors
Separate from the criminal or juvenile court charges, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) will initiate an administrative action to suspend a minor's driver's license. This process is triggered by the DWI arrest and is independent of any court conviction.
By driving on Texas roads, a minor is deemed to have given their consent to provide a breath or blood specimen if lawfully arrested for DUIA or DWI. Upon arrest, the officer will confiscate the minor's physical license and issue a temporary driving permit (valid for 40 days) and a "Notice of Suspension" or "Notice of ALR Hearing" (Form DIC-25).
You have only 15 calendar days from the date of the arrest to request an Administrative License Revocation (ALR) hearing to challenge the automatic suspension of the minor's license. If this hearing is not requested within the deadline, the minor's license will automatically be suspended on the 40th day after arrest.
Key Underage DWI / DUIA Defense Strategies in Texas
An underage DWI or DUIA charge in Texas is not an automatic conviction; a skilled Ellis County juvenile DWI attorney can employ various strategies to challenge the prosecution's case and protect the minor's rights.
- Challenging the Lawfulness of the Traffic Stop: Argue the stop lacked reasonable suspicion, potentially leading to the suppression of all evidence obtained thereafter.
- Disputing Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): Challenge FST reliability by highlighting influencing factors (medical conditions, fatigue, environment) or improper officer administration that skewed results, rather than actual impairment.
- Challenging Chemical Test Results (Breath and Blood):
- Breath Test Challenges: Investigate breathalyzer calibration, maintenance, officer training, and procedural adherence; argue physiological factors caused inaccurate readings.
- Blood Test Challenges: Scrutinize the chain of custody, lab analysis methods, technician qualifications, and proper blood draw procedures for potential errors or contamination.
- Rising BAC Defense: Argue the minor's BAC was below the legal limit at the time of driving and was still rising when the test was administered.
- Challenging "Operation" or "Actual Physical Control": Argue the prosecution cannot definitively prove the minor was driving or in actual physical control of the vehicle while under the influence.
- Miranda Rights Violations: Assert that any statements made by the minor after arrest and before Miranda warnings were read (or without adherence to juvenile interrogation rules) should be deemed inadmissible.
- Video Evidence Review: Utilize dashcam and bodycam footage to identify improper FST administration, inaccurate officer observations, or violations of the minor's rights.
- Challenging "Detectability" (for DUIA): Dispute the reliability of tests or observations claiming any detectable amount of alcohol.
Our underage DWI lawyer in Ellis County provides strong legal defense, free consultations, and bilingual support. Call (214) 903-7722 or message us today for immediate help.
Why Choose The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford?
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All Initial Consultations Are FREE of Charge
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Se Habla Español
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Board Certified as a Specialist in Criminal Law by Texas Board of Legal Specialization
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We Take Your Calls and Texts 24/7 - Here When You Need Us
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Client & Peer Reviewed 5 Stars for Quality Representation
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Over 200 Criminal Cases Taken to Jury Trials
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Extensive Courtroom Experience and Longstanding Reputation with Local Judges
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20% Discount to Veterans and Current Military or Civil Service
FAQs
What Should I Do If My Child Is Arrested for a DWI in Ellis County?
Remain calm and contact our office immediately at (214) 903-7722. Avoid letting your child make statements to law enforcement before consulting a lawyer. Early legal intervention can shape the outcome of the case, preserve evidence, and protect your child’s rights.
Are Juvenile DWI Records Permanent?
No, juvenile DWI records in Texas are not automatically sealed. However, sealing or expungement may be possible. Our attorneys guide families through the sealing process to help minimize long-term consequences for college admissions, scholarships, and employment.
Why Choose The Law Office of Michael J. Crawford, PLLC?
- Courtroom Experience: Attorney Crawford, named among Rising Stars, has the strategic advocacy skills necessary to argue effectively for client rights.
- Local Insights: As a lifelong Ellis County resident, Attorney Crawford has unique insights into community-specific legal processes and challenges.
- Client-First Philosophy: We prioritize clear communication and emotional support, ensuring clients understand each step of their legal journey.
- Proximity to Courthouses: Our office’s location allows for prompt and efficient legal action.
Further, our diverse team brings a comprehensive approach to legal defense, drawing on a variety of perspectives to tailor solutions that best fit each client. This holistic method has proven essential in juvenile cases, where the stakes include not just legal penalties, but social and academic consequences too.
Contact Us to Safeguard Your Child’s Future
Your child’s future is too important to leave to chance. At the Law Office of Michael J. Crawford, we’re dedicated to protecting your family’s rights with compassionate, informed advocacy. Let us help navigate the complexities of juvenile DUI law, providing peace of mind and effective representation tailored to your needs. Our commitment is to help your child move beyond this setback, preserving their opportunities and rights for a brighter future.
Reach out at (214) 903-7722 to schedule a consultation. We provide clarity and guidance through each step, ensuring you feel supported throughout the process.