Sheboygan Underage DUI Attorney

Experienced Defense Attorneys for Minors in Wisconsin

Were you or your child charged with underage drinking and driving? The penalties for teenagers and young adults who are caught driving under the influence (DUI) can be severe and have lasting consequences. If you are facing charges, it is crucial that you seek legal representation as soon as possible.

At Melowski & Singh, we have extensive experience representing clients in DUI cases, including underage DUI. Our team of Sheboygan underage DUI attorneys is well-versed in the laws and penalties in Wisconsin and has helped numerous clients obtain successful outcomes in their cases. We are prepared to put our knowledge and resources to work for you.

To discuss your situation with an experienced lawyer, call (920) 294-1414 or contact us online to request a free initial consultation with our Sheboygan underage DUI attorneys.

What Is an Underage DUI in Wisconsin?

In Wisconsin, it is illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to purchase or consume alcohol. It is also illegal for anyone under the age of 21 to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.02% or higher. If a minor is found driving with any amount of alcohol in their system, they can be charged with DUI.

Underage DUI is a serious criminal charge that can result in a wide range of penalties, including fines, probation, community service, and mandatory alcohol education. You can also face mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle, even if you are not yet old enough to drive. You may also be required to serve time in a juvenile detention center, and your driver’s license can be suspended for an extended period of time.

At Melowski & Singh, we understand the gravity of these types of charges and can help you explore your legal options. Our Sheboygan underage DUI attorneys are prepared to aggressively advocate for your rights and fight to protect your future.

Substances & Penalties in Wisconsin Juvenile DUI Cases

Many parents and minors are surprised to learn that underage DUI prosecution isn’t limited to alcohol. Even legal, prescription medications or illegal drugs that impair a driver's ability can lead to charges under Wisconsin law. Administrative repercussions—such as immediate license suspension—can occur before your first court date in Sheboygan if your BAC exceeds 0.02%. Enforcement efforts in Sheboygan County reflect both state priorities and community safety concerns, so working with a local underage DUI lawyer familiar with Sheboygan courts is vital for the best outcome.

Penalties for Underage DUI in Sheboygan & Wisconsin

An underage DUI can involve serious penalties, including fines, community service, probation, mandatory alcohol education, and—depending on circumstances—ignition interlock device (IID) installation. Some minors can face time in juvenile detention or lengthy license suspensions, even if not yet eligible for a full driver’s license. The risk for extended penalties and the impact on education and employment prospects highlight the importance of consulting an underage DUI attorney in Sheboygan at the earliest stage of your case.

What Happens During the Juvenile Court Process in Sheboygan?

After a juvenile or underage DUI arrest in Sheboygan, the legal process is distinct from adult proceedings. The case is typically referred to the Juvenile Delinquency Division of the Sheboygan County Circuit Court, where the emphasis is on accountability and rehabilitation. The initial court hearing, or plea hearing, allows the juvenile and their attorney to address the charges. Parental or guardian involvement is expected, as judges look for family engagement in charting a course toward a positive outcome.

Steps & Considerations in the Sheboygan Juvenile DUI Court Process

During court proceedings, the judge may order assessments by Sheboygan County Human Services to determine if counseling, community service, or substance abuse education should be included as part of the case resolution. Factors such as a minor’s home environment, academic performance, and prior conduct are considered alongside the details of the offense. Results can include deferred prosecution agreements, restorative justice programs, or formal consequences such as community supervision or, in more serious cases, placement in a secure juvenile facility.

Expungement & Long-Term Strategies for Sheboygan Juvenile DUI Charges

There are options to minimize the long-term impact of a juvenile or underage DUI. In Wisconsin, some individuals are eligible to have a conviction expunged from their record if they meet certain criteria after completing all sentencing requirements. Because eligibility in Sheboygan County depends on age, case severity, and post-sentencing conduct, consulting with a juvenile DUI attorney in Sheboygan is critical. Judges will consider your conduct, compliance with all court mandates (like community service or alcohol education), and overall attitude.

For many Sheboygan-area families, expungement represents a second chance. Our team at Melowski & Singh, LLC reviews your circumstances, helps gather necessary court documentation, and prepares you for hearings with the Sheboygan County Circuit Court. Knowing when, how, and why to seek expungement is part of our comprehensive approach to restoring your reputation and future after a DUI conviction.

Defenses & Legal Options with a Sheboygan Juvenile DUI Attorney

We investigate every DUI case thoroughly, seeking out opportunities for dismissal or reduction of charges based on police conduct and weaknesses in the evidence. Typical defenses include:

• Illegal Stop: Police require reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If that standard isn't met in Sheboygan, evidence may be suppressed.
• Improper Field Sobriety Tests: Field sobriety tests can be administered incorrectly, leading to unreliable results.
• Faulty Chemical Testing: Breath and blood tests can be influenced by equipment errors, timing, or environmental factors. If mishandled, your Sheboygan underage DUI lawyer can move to exclude these results.
• Improper Evidence Handling: Evidence must be collected and processed correctly by law enforcement. Loss or contamination may invalidate the prosecution’s case.

At Melowski & Singh, LLC, we work diligently to protect your future, evaluating every aspect of your case and identifying defenses unique to the local laws and Sheboygan court procedures. We always look for solutions that preserve your education and life options while satisfying legal requirements.

Administrative License Suspension & How to Respond in Sheboygan

The administrative suspension of a license can take effect within days of an underage DUI arrest in Sheboygan. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation coordinates these suspensions with local police and court filings. Any breath or chemical test indicating alcohol or drugs in a minor’s system could prompt this immediate loss of driving privileges, regardless of upcoming court dates. Acting fast is crucial.

Responding to Administrative License Actions in Sheboygan County

Upon receiving a suspension notice, you have as little as ten days to request a hearing in Sheboygan County Circuit Court. This administrative hearing is distinct from your criminal case and impacts whether you can legally drive during proceedings. Our role as underage DUI attorneys in Sheboygan is to help you challenge unwarranted suspensions by identifying procedural errors or insufficient evidence. Our team files all required paperwork, helps you prepare your best case, and represents you before local hearing officers to protect your family’s interests and mobility during this period.

Administrative actions can be a source of confusion for many families. At Melowski & Singh, LLC, we bring clarity and peace of mind, ensuring nothing is missed that could affect work, school, or community commitments while your criminal case is pending in Sheboygan.

What to Expect at Your First Court Appearance in Sheboygan

The first court date after a juvenile or underage DUI arrest in Sheboygan is crucial for setting the tone of your defense. During this session, charges will be read, your child’s rights will be confirmed, and initial bond and release conditions will be set. This is often when a well-prepared juvenile DUI lawyer in Sheboygan can make a significant difference.

Preparation & Representation at the Initial Hearing

Our underage DUI attorneys in Sheboygan coordinate with you before the hearing to ensure you understand all procedures and documentation required. We review your case thoroughly, manage communications with prosecutors, and may negotiate for pretrial diversion or reduced conditions on your child's release. This early intervention sometimes opens the door for diversion programs or alternative resolutions that protect educational, vocational, and family interests.

After this appearance, the judge sets deadlines for meeting with probation officers, undergoing substance evaluation, and compliance with any interim monitoring. Our team supports you throughout the process, communicates with county services, and preserves every opportunity to help you avoid or reduce long-term consequences while aligning with Sheboygan County's restorative justice principles.

Our Sheboygan Underage DUI Lawyers Can Help

If you are facing DUI charges, it is vital to seek representation from a qualified Sheboygan juvenile DUI lawyer as soon as possible. The earlier you involve a professional, the more options you may have to protect your child’s rights, navigate Wisconsin’s legal system, and build a persuasive defense.

At Melowski & Singh, LLC, we are dedicated to helping Sheboygan families resolve DUI-related legal matters with clarity, compassion, and tenacity. We know how to support clients through every challenge and are ready to provide the exceptional legal services you need.

Get help from our professionals today. Reach out to us online or call us at (920) 294-1414.