Lee Law Firm, LLC

How can an underage OWI affect my child’s future?

2026-08-07T13:00:27Z

Many parents never expect to receive a phone call saying their child has been arrested for operating while intoxicated (OWI). The first reaction is often fear, followed by a flood of questions. Will this affect college? Can they still keep their job? Is this one mistake something they will carry for years? Those concerns are understandable. An underage OWI can have lasting consequences, but it does not automatically close the door on a young person's future. Understanding what may happen next can help families respond with perspective, make informed decisions and focus on helping their child move forward responsibly.

An underage OWI can reach beyond the courtroom

An underage OWI can involve more than court appearances and financial penalties. Depending on the circumstances, it may affect parts of everyday life that matter to a young person who is still building their future. For many teenagers and young adults, driving is closely tied to school, work and family responsibilities. A suspended license can make it harder to get to class, keep a part-time job or participate in extracurricular activities. Some employers and internship programs also review driving or criminal records during the hiring process, which could create additional challenges. Students may also face consequences through their school or college. Certain institutions have conduct policies that require students to report criminal charges or convictions. While an OWI does not automatically prevent someone from earning a degree or pursuing a career, it can create obstacles that families should address early. Parents often feel caught between wanting to protect their child and wanting them to understand the seriousness of what happened. That balance can be difficult to strike while managing an unfamiliar legal process.

Questions parents should start asking after an underage OWI

One of the most helpful things a parent can do is gather reliable information before making assumptions. Asking thoughtful questions early can make it easier to prepare for both the legal process and the practical challenges ahead. For example:

Could the charges affect driving privileges, and if so, for how long?
Will the incident need to be disclosed to a school, college, employer or scholarship program?
Are there deadlines for court appearances or other legal requirements that cannot be missed?
What options, if any, may be available to reduce the long-term impact of the case?
How might this situation affect future educational or career opportunities?

The answers depend on the facts of the case, including the child's age, the circumstances of the arrest and any prior offenses. Taking time to understand the legal process can help families make decisions based on reliable information instead of fear or uncertainty.

One mistake does not have to define the future

An underage OWI deserves careful attention, but it does not have to determine a young person's future. Many families move through this experience by addressing the legal issues, encouraging accountability and helping their child continue working toward their goals. While no parent wants to face this situation, informed decisions can make a meaningful difference in what comes next. Seeking legal guidance can help families better understand their options and choose the path that best supports their child's future.

IF I WERE TO REQUIRE DEFENSE SERVICES AGAIN I WOULD ABSOLUTELY CHOOSE TO GO WITH MAY LEE.

2026-07-21T11:12:09Z

I highly recommend Defense Attorney May Lee. During the time with my case, she demonstrated care, empathy, and dedication to resolve matters with my case. She was always available to answer questions, and if she didn't have the answer she would make sure to find it in a swift manner. May showed considerable support during a long court process. If I were to require defense services again I would absolutely choose to go with May Lee.

FORMER CLIENT

I’M GLAD WE RECEIVED THE OPPORTUNITY TO WORK AS A TEAM. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

2026-07-21T11:11:08Z

I would like to thank you for sticking with me through this process. You're such a fantastic lady and coming from humble beginnings, you turned out to be such a great person who's very considerate and you do your best to fight to reserve the rights of individuals who deserve better or even a second chance. I'm glad we received the opportunity to work as a team. Thank you for your support!

C.W.

SHE IS A VERY INTELLIGENT, CONFIDENT, AND KNOWLEDGEABLE ATTORNEY.

2026-07-21T11:08:53Z

Ms. Lee was very professional in handling my case. She is a very intelligent, confident, and knowledgeable attorney. There were a few bumps in the the road for us in which she was very opened minded but direct about the posture and possibilities of the case. I would highly recommend her.

Former Client

Excellent lawyer. Great client communication skills.

2026-07-21T11:08:00Z

Excellent lawyer. Great client communication skills.

Peer Review From A Managing Partner

I have observed her in and out of the courtroom to be a passionate and eloquent advocate on behalf of her clients.

2026-07-21T11:06:46Z

I have known May Lee since she started practicing law as an Assistant District Attorney where I practice as a defense attorney. As an opponent, Attorney Lee was always respectful and open to hearing my arguments on behalf of my client. Which is a lot more than many brand new ADAs would do in such a busy high-pressured urban court setting. As a defense colleague, I have observed her in and out of the courtroom to be a passionate and eloquent advocate on behalf of her clients. A++

Peer Review From A Criminal Law Attorney

A wonderful person and lawyer.

2026-07-21T11:05:46Z

After speaking with Ms. Lee, I was immediately reassured, taken care of, updated, and provided with excellent service all around. Ms. Lee communicates promptly, professionally, and made me feel at ease. A wonderful person and lawyer.

Matt

Her skills and passion for her profession is expressed through her actions.

2026-07-21T10:47:37Z

Attorney May Lee was referred to me by one of her clients. All I asked was that she fight for me. She listened to my concerns, hired private investigators and discovered information that proved the officer lied to get a search warrant which violated my Constitutional Rights as a United States citizen. Her skills and passion for her profession is expressed through her actions. Thank you Attorney May Lee.

Cyless

She is trustworthy and caring which can be hard to find in a lawyer

2026-07-21T10:45:43Z

I sought advise from May on a situation that I was going through because I needed legal guidance. Even though my situation wasn’t in her area of expertise she listened and helped me find someone that would be able to guide me. She gave support to me and advice on my options which was helpful during the difficult situation. I appreciate how she went out of her way to help find other lawyers that she knew that we could consult with. She is trustworthy and caring which can be hard to find in a lawyer.

Former Client

She helped me with my family and she has never let us down.

2026-07-21T10:18:56Z

If you are looking for hard working, determined and well seasoned attorney who knows the law, knows the process and can give you peace of mind - then call Attorney May Y. Lee. She helped me with my family and she has never let us down. She always responds to messages and is very supportive throughout the process. Will definitely recommend and use her again. 🙂 Thank you so much! AC X.