Underage DUI / UDD Defense in Colorado
Being arrested for an underage DUI can be overwhelming for both a young driver and their family. A single mistake can affect a license, a record, an education, and a future.
At Trust Johnson Law, we help young drivers and families across Colorado understand their rights and take the right steps immediately after an underage drinking and driving charge.
Avoid explaining, guessing, or volunteering details to police.
Once requested, questioning should stop immediately.
Early legal involvement protects the most options.
Why the BAC Limit Matters
Drivers under 21 can be charged with Underage Drinking and Driving (UDD) at a BAC of just 0.02% — a fraction of the 0.08% threshold that applies to adult drivers. This reflects Colorado's zero-tolerance approach to underage drinking behind the wheel.
BAC of 0.02% up to 0.05% for drivers under 21.
Any age — impairment to the slightest degree.
BAC of 0.08%+ creates a legal presumption of intoxication.
School, scholarships, and jobs can all be affected.
Our Underage DUI Defense Services
Understanding the differences between UDD, DWAI, and DUI charges is an important first step in evaluating an underage drinking and driving case.
Under 21 Only
Underage Drinking and Driving
Colorado's lower limit for drivers under 21, reflecting the state's policy of discouraging any alcohol consumption behind the wheel.
Any Age
Driving While Ability Impaired
Charged when alcohol or drugs impair a driver's ability to operate a vehicle safely — even to the slightest degree.
Any Age
Driving Under the Influence
Charged when a driver is substantially incapable of operating a vehicle safely due to alcohol or drugs.
Beyond the Courtroom
The consequences of a UDD, DWAI, or DUI charge often reach far past fines and a court date.
An arrest can trigger consequences that follow a young driver well beyond the courtroom.
Most cases come with financial and supervisory obligations attached.
Schools and scholarship programs may take action independent of the court.
The impact can extend into employment and professional paths.
For Parents
Learning your son or daughter has been arrested is stressful for the whole family. Our goal is to guide you through every step and work toward the best outcome — while minimizing the long-term impact on your child's future.
Charges are formally read and release conditions are set early on.
Administrative action on the license can move on a separate clock from court.
We review the stop, the testing, and the evidence before forming strategy.
A plan focused on protecting school, scholarships, and the record long-term.
How We Defend the Case
Before accepting the charge as written, we examine the stop, the testing, and the evidence — looking for every legitimate opening to protect your case.
Police must have a legal basis for stopping the vehicle. If they didn't, it can change the entire case.
Breath and blood tests must follow strict procedures — calibration, handling, and timing all matter.
Roadside testing can be affected by medical conditions, nervousness, weather, road conditions, fatigue, and physical limitations.
If law enforcement violated your rights during the stop or arrest, it may limit what evidence prosecutors can use.
Body camera footage, dash camera video, witness statements, and officer reports should all be carefully reviewed.
An underage alcohol-related driving offense can trigger administrative action against your license that is separate from the criminal court case — and missing key deadlines may limit your ability to challenge it. An attorney can walk you through both tracks so nothing falls through the cracks.
Schedule a Confidential Consultation
The earlier you speak with an experienced defense attorney, the more opportunities there may be to protect your rights — and your child's path forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions from young drivers and families facing an underage DUI in Colorado.
Colorado's Underage Drinking and Driving law allows charges when a driver under 21 has a BAC of 0.02% or higher but less than 0.05%.
Yes. If the facts support it, an underage driver may be charged with DWAI or DUI instead of — or in addition to — an underage drinking and driving offense.
The long-term impact depends on the specific charge, the outcome of the case, and Colorado law. An attorney can explain how your circumstances may affect your record.
Some educational institutions, scholarship programs, employers, and licensing boards may consider criminal history during admissions or hiring decisions.
Because these charges can affect a young person's future, it is often beneficial to have an experienced attorney review the case and explain all available options.
Trust Johnson Law · Colorado Criminal Defense
An underage DUI is not the end of the story. Get experienced, strategic defense on your side from day one.
