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Flagstaff Underage DUI Lawyer Protecting Young Futures

Zero Tolerance Doesn’t Mean Zero Hope — Protect Your Child’s Future

Arizona’s zero-tolerance DUI law means anyone under age 21 can face a DUI charge with any alcohol at all in their system — even a BAC of 0.01. Whether you’re a parent worried about your child or an NAU student scared about school and legal consequences, an underage DUI can feel overwhelming.

A youthful mistake shouldn’t define someone’s future. With the right defense, it’s often possible to reduce the charge, avoid a conviction, protect a clean record, and minimize school or career impacts.

What We Help With

Underage DUI (BAC .01+) — Arizona’s “Baby DUI”

Even the slightest alcohol level can trigger a Class 1 misdemeanor. Consequences may include license suspension, fines, alcohol education, and court requirements.

Underage DUI with Higher BAC

If BAC is 0.08 or higher, the state can file a standard DUI on top of the underage DUI charge. We work to separate or reduce charges whenever possible.

NAU Student Defense

We help students avoid outcomes that could affect enrollment, scholarships, internships, and long-term career plans. We also guide students through potential university disciplinary processes.

Parent–Student Support Structure

We work with both students and parents (with the student’s permission when required) to ensure everyone understands the legal strategy and the path forward.

Reducing or Avoiding a Conviction

Options may include:

  • Negotiation for reduced charges (e.g., reckless driving or underage consumption)
  • Diversion-style outcomes when available
  • Leveraging academic achievement and clean history
  • Challenging the legality of the stop or the testing process

High BAC Underage Cases (Extreme or Super Extreme)

Rare, but possible — especially in combined NAU and weekend scenarios. We handle these with the same depth as adult high-BAC cases.

Underage DUI on Federal Land

Some arrests happen near national parks or federal property around Northern Arizona. We can guide you through the federal process.

Mistakes That Make Underage DUI Cases Worse

  • Assuming a conviction is unavoidable because of zero tolerance.
    There are still defenses and negotiation paths.


  • Not acting quickly to protect the driver’s license.
    Underage DUIs can trigger long MVD suspensions.


  • Letting the student speak with prosecutors alone.
    They may unintentionally harm their case.


  • Ignoring possible school-related consequences.
    Legal outcomes can affect university disciplinary decisions.


  • Waiting to involve parents or legal support.
    Early strategy matters.
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How We Defend Underage DUI Charges in Arizona

What You Can Expect:

01

Case Review & Strategy Session

We evaluate the stop, tests, officer conduct, and BAC level.

02

Record Protection Plan

We push aggressively for outcomes that avoid a permanent criminal record.

03

BAC & Procedural Review

Low-level BAC readings often have errors. High BAC readings require deeper analysis.

04

Negotiation for Reductions

We pursue amendments to lesser offenses when the evidence and circumstances allow it.

05

Support for School-Related Processes

We help students prepare for university hearings when necessary.

If You’re Not Sure What to Do Next

If you or your child is an NAU student

We work to minimize school-related consequences and protect academic futures.

If you barely had any alcohol

Zero tolerance cases can still be fought — equipment error and questionable stops are common issues.

If you’re worried about losing your license

We take immediate steps to preserve driving privileges whenever possible.

If you’re a parent seeking reassurance

Most underage DUI cases do not result in life-changing outcomes when handled promptly and strategically.

If you’re afraid of disappointing your family or school

You’re not alone — many students recover from this with the right guidance and a smart plan.

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Common Questions About Underage DUI in Flagstaff

  • What is an Extreme DUI in Arizona?

    Any detectable alcohol can trigger the underage charge — even if BAC is below .08.

  • Can a student be charged with both underage DUI and regular DUI?

    Yes. If BAC is high enough, both charges may be filed.

  • Will this go on my permanent record?

    Not necessarily. Many cases can be reduced or resolved in ways that protect a clean record.

  • Can a student get kicked out of NAU?

    Universities handle discipline separately, but a reduced legal outcome often helps significantly.

  • Should parents be involved?

    For anyone under 18, yes. For students 18–20, involvement requires permission — but support is encouraged.

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Protect Your Future — Get the Right Defense Today

Families across Sedona, Williams, Page, Tuba City, and Winslow trust the Law Office of Matthew J. Poirier, PLLC to guide students through underage DUI charges with clarity, compassion, and strong strategy.