Under-18 DUI in Maryland

An under‑18 DUI or DWI raises issues beyond the typical adult case. You’re often on a learner or provisional license with added conditions, and your paperwork determines whether the case moves in a juvenile forum or regular (adult) court. Meanwhile, the MVA track starts immediately.

First 10 days: don’t miss the license window

• Request an MVA hearing within 10 days to keep driving pending the outcome. Start here: MVA Hearing Lawyer.
• Review the DR‑15A. It sets the timeline for administrative action and hearing rights.
• Discuss whether early Ignition Interlock enrollment makes sense for school/work needs. For refusals, read Implied Consent in Maryland.

GDL and provisional license considerations

• Learner/provisional status means extra MVA conditions. Alcohol‑related incidents can trigger stricter MVA action, extended restrictions, or added steps before full licensure.
• Your hearing vs. interlock decision can compound or soften GDL consequences. We’ll model both paths before you choose.

Court forum and process

• Under‑18 DUI matters proceed in juvenile court. Your charging documents will reference the circuit court sitting as a juvenile court; bring them to the first call so we can plan precisely.
• Parent/guardian participation is commonly required for certain communications, scheduling, and programs.

For a deeper overview of the juvenile process and goals, see our Juvenile Defense page. We also handle county‑specific juvenile cases:

• Calvert County Juvenile Lawyer
• Charles County Juvenile Lawyer
• Prince George’s County Juvenile Lawyer
• Bowie Juvenile Defense Attorney

Investigation and defenses

• Stops, field tests, and testing choices define most cases. Field sobriety tests are voluntary. See: Should I Take a Field Sobriety Test?
• Administration of SFSTs and HGN matters. See: Field Sobriety Testing
• Breath devices and process: Intox EC IR II and PBT vs. Breathalyzer

Zero‑tolerance and refusals

• Under‑21 alcohol rules apply, and refusal consequences are separate on the MVA track. That’s why the 10‑day hearing window and interlock choices matter even more.

Driver improvement and mitigation

• Expect early driver‑improvement or alcohol education steps where indicated. We will prioritize verifiable actions that judges actually consider helpful.
• If interlock is installed, follow every rule and keep clean logs; reliable compliance helps at MVA and in court.

School, activities, and scheduling

• We plan hearing dates and any installations around classes, activities, practices, work, and family transportation.
• Bring your weekly schedule to the first call so we can avoid unnecessary disruption.

FAQs

Do I need a parent or guardian involved?

In many under‑18 cases you will, especially for scheduling and program enrollments. We’ll confirm what your paperwork requires.

Where will my case be heard?

It depends on age and charging documents. Many 16–17 traffic matters go to regular (adult) court; younger drivers can see juvenile jurisdiction.

Should I pick interlock or a hearing?

It depends on your commute, license status, refusal vs. BAC results, and schedule. We’ll compare both choices before you decide.

Where can I read about penalties and definitions?

Start with DUI vs DWI, DUI per se, and the Maryland DUI Chart.