DUI & Minor Passenger Under 14

Driving under the influence is already a serious offense—but when a driver is arrested for DUI with a minor passenger under 14 years old, the consequences become significantly harsher.

California treats this situation as child endangerment, meaning the driver may face additional charges, enhanced penalties, and increased bail amounts.

Here’s what you need to know.

What Is a DUI With a Minor Under 14?

A DUI with a minor under 14 occurs when:

• A driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and
• A child under 14 is inside the vehicle at the time of the arrest.

This situation triggers sentence enhancements under California Vehicle Code 23572, which are added on top of the standard DUI penalties.

Why the Charges Are More Severe?

Driving while impaired puts everyone on the road at risk, but having a small child in the car elevates the danger.
Children cannot protect themselves, and courts treat this as a serious act of endangerment.

This can lead to:

• Additional jail time
• Increased fines
• Possible child protective services involvement
• Misdemeanor or felony child endangerment charges (§ 273a PC)

Penalties for DUI With a Minor Under 14

The penalties depend on the number of DUI offenses and the severity of the situation. The child-endangerment enhancement is mandatory, meaning judges must add extra jail time if the driver is convicted.

First DUI Offense

• Standard DUI penalties
• Additional 48 hours in jail

Second DUI Offense

• Standard penalties
• Additional 10 days in jail

Third DUI Offense

• Standard penalties
• Additional 30 days in jail

Fourth or Felony DUI

• Standard penalties
• Additional 90 days in jail

If the situation involves injury to the child, the case may also involve:

• Felony child endangerment charges
• Possible prison time
• Long-term loss of custody or visitation rights

Bail for DUI With a Minor Under 14

Bail amounts are significantly higher than for a standard DUI because courts consider the presence of a child an aggravating factor.

Typical bail ranges include:

• Standard DUI: $5,000–$10,000
• DUI with minor under 14: $20,000–$50,000
• DUI with injury + minor: $50,000–$100,000+

Depending on the county, enhancements for child endangerment may be stacked on top of the DUI bail amount.

How a Bail Bond Can Help

Because bail can be high in these cases, many families turn to a bail bond company for assistance.

A licensed bail agent can:

• Post bail on your behalf
• Handle jail paperwork and court requirements
• Offer payment plans when available
• Ensure the fastest release possible

You pay a non-refundable fee (usually 10%) of the total bail, and the agency posts the full amount.

Facing a DUI With a Child in the Car?

A DUI with a minor under 14 carries serious, life-changing consequences. If you or a loved one has been arrested, getting out of custody quickly is crucial for preparing your defense and protecting your family.

Our experienced bail agents are available 24/7 to assist with DUI-related arrests, child-endangerment enhancements, and high-bail cases. We’re here to help you every step of the way.

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