DUI No Gimmicks. Just Grit.

Georgetown DUI Lawyer

Serving Clients Throughout the Greater Austin Area

Texas enforces a "Zero Tolerance" law for drivers under 21 operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, resulting in strict penalties for any detectable amount of alcohol. Unlike adult DWIs, which require a BAC of 0.08% or higher, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) as low as 0.01% can result in an underage DUI charge. 

Furthermore, DUI convictions can have lasting consequences on a young person’s life. The sooner a lawyer can get involved, the better. The Law Office of Todd Nickle has served clients in Georgetown, Pflugerville, Leander, Cedar Park, Round Rock, and the surrounding areas since 2008. 

Call (737) 215-3408 or contact us online today.

Penalties for Underage DUI in Texas

  • Fines: A first-time offense can result in fines of up to $500. Repeat offenses may carry higher penalties.
  • License suspension: The driver’s license can be suspended for as long as 180 days after the first offense, with longer suspensions for subsequent violations.
  • Mandatory education: There may be a requirement to complete an alcohol awareness or substance abuse education course. This could apply to both the underage defendant and the parent(s). 
  • Community service: First-time offenders may need to complete 20 to 40 hours of community service, with increased hours for repeat offenses.

While jail time is not typically involved in underage DUI cases, this is a possibility in the event of repeat offenses. 

Beyond these legal penalties, underage DUI convictions can have far-reaching consequences. These include having a permanent criminal record, difficulty applying to colleges or securing scholarships, and challenges in obtaining certain jobs. Additionally, auto insurance rates may significantly increase.

Real Defense Starts With Real Experience

Get Courtroom Confidence With A Personal touch
  • Personalized, Strategic Defense
    Every case is different. We build customized defense strategies and works directly with clients, offering responsive, one-on-one representation.
  • Former Prosecutor Insight
    After years of experience at the DA’s office handling everything from felonies to capital murder, Todd Nickle knows how prosecutors think—and how to counter them.
  • Board Certified in Criminal Law

    As a Texas Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist, Todd Nickle holds a distinction earned by fewer than 10% of attorneys statewide.

  • Proven Trial Experience
    With over 100 jury trials under his belt, Todd Nickle thrives in the courtroom. He’s not afraid to go to trial—and he knows how to win.

How Our DUI Defense Attorney Can Help 

Todd Nickle understands the nuances of DUI laws and will closely examine the circumstances of the arrest to identify possible weaknesses in the prosecution's case. 

Depending on the circumstances, we might challenge the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood test results, question whether the traffic stop was lawful, or uncover procedural errors made by law enforcement.

We can explore the options for negotiating reduced penalties. For first-time offenders, we may advocate for alternative sentencing options, such as probation or alcohol education programs, instead of license suspension or hefty fines.

Our ultimate objectives transcend the immediate legal situation and aim to protect a young person’s future. We want to minimize the impact on their criminal record, which could affect college admissions, job opportunities, or scholarships.

Ultimately, a strong legal defense can mean the difference between a one-time mistake and long-lasting consequences. 

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FAQs About DUI

We'll be Your Resource At Every Step
  • Can an underage DUI be expunged from a record in Texas?

    Yes, under certain conditions, an underage DUI can be expunged from a record in Texas. Expungement is possible if the charge is dismissed, the individual is acquitted at trial, or they successfully complete a diversion or deferred adjudication program. However, eligibility depends on the specifics of the case and the person’s criminal history. Expungement is vital to prevent a DUI from negatively impacting future opportunities like college admissions or employment.

  • How does an underage DUI differ from an adult DUI?

    The BAC threshold is one important difference. Another distinction is the penalties. The goal in underage DUI cases is typically to educate and rehabilitate young offenders through mandatory alcohol awareness classes and community service. Adult DUIs often carry harsher penalties, including steeper fines and longer license suspensions, especially for repeat offenses.

  • Can an underage driver refuse to take a breathalyzer test?

    Under Texas law, refusing a breathalyzer test is an option but comes with serious consequences. Refusal automatically triggers an Administrative License Revocation (ALR), leading to a license suspension of 180 days for a first refusal and up to two years for repeat refusals.

Communication, Responsiveness, and Experience

Todd Nickle has practiced law in the criminal justice system for a long time, spending 10 years as a prosecutor before opening our office. Having a lawyer who understands the system from both sides, and who has a long track record of success at trial can be a big advantage for defendants. 

What’s more, Todd Nickle is available to his clients. You’ll have access 24/7, and he takes the time to develop a strategy that’s specifically customized to your specific case. One-size-fits-all templates won’t do—not when a young person’s future is at stake. 

When you or your child is charged with a DUI, call our Georgetown office right away at (737) 215-3408.

    “He'll Exceed Your Expectations”
    “Mr. Nickle is by far one of the very best lawyers in the Central Texas area if not the very best. He was very professional and very ethical. He truly cares about his clients whether he is retained or appointed.”
    - Allen C.
    “He Never Quit”
    “Todd fought hard and won a dismissal of my case. We knew it would be an uphill battle but he never quit.”
    - Former Client
    “Very Professional”
    “I definitely feel like I got fair representation and would recommend him to anyone.”
    - Dylan A.
    “So Thankful for Mr. Nickle's Representation”
    “He worked really hard and ultimately got all the cases dismissed. Our kid is doing great now and we are so thrilled to have this behind us.”
    - K.E.
    “We Use Him for Everything”
    “Todd was a great lawyer. I hired him for a case first time 3 years ago and he provided me the best outcome. Since then, I have personally had to use him 2 more times, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with my results.”
    - Kazim M.
    “Fantastic Job”
    “He was always very responsive to me while following up proactively with all parties to bring the case to a close. Highly recommend Todd!”
    - Peter T.
    “Walked Me Through the Process Flawlessly”
    “Dealing with a federal charge as a court appointment attorney, his advice was sound and in my best interest overall. Though he wasn’t a lawyer I hired, he still treated me with respect and walked me through the whole process flawlessly.”
    - Teryn S.

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After over 100 jury trials, Todd Nickle knows what it takes to win. Call (737) 215-3408 today or fill out the form below to get experience on your side.

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