What to expect : dUI / DWI

Being cited with a DUI can be devastating – for both you and your loved ones.

If you or a loved one has been cited for a DUI, we understand how scary the unknows can be : what happens next? Will you lose your license? Will there be fines? How could this affect your job? 

The state of Arizona is arguable the toughest when it comes to DUI charges – even for first time offences there is the very real risk that you could face jail time, hefty fines and the automatic suspension of your driver’s license. For active duty personnel and those with  government security clearance, this could spell the end of your military career. With your future hanging in the balance, it is crucial that you retain experienced legal council as soon as possible.

What qualifies as a DUI in Arizona?

In the state of Arizona, a DUI charge does not necessarily require that you fail a Breathalyzer test. State law defines driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol as either of the following : driving with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher and / or driving while impaired to even the slightest degree (lower than 0.08% BAC) This means that you can be charged with a DUI even if your blood alcohol content is below the legal limit, so long as an officer has determined that you are slightly inebriated. 

In Arizona, there are three classes of DUI, all of which carry their own criteria and penalties. 

1. DUI (ordinary or impaired DUI) : when your blood alcohol content tests between 0.08% – 0.149%
2. Extreme DUI : a blood alcohol content of 0.15% – 0.199%
3. Super Extreme DUI : a blood alcohol content of 0.20% or higher

 

What are the penalties for a DUI in Arizona?

For first time offences, the state of Arizona, all convictions face the following penalties : 

• A 90-day suspension of your driver’s license.
• An ignition interlock device for 1 year.
• Drug and alcohol education, treatment or screening.
• The successful completion of traffic survival school course.
• Possible community service.

Depending on your blood alcohol content at the time of the incident, you could also face between 10 – 45 days in jail and fines of over $2,750.

What should you do if you have been charged with a DUI?

The most important next step you must take is to contact an experienced attorney who specializes in DUI and DWI cases – one with a proven track record within the community.

We understand that most people will have only used an attorney in the past for general, family matters – such as divorce proceedings or estate planning. While family practice lawyers are great at what they do, they are not experts in navigating the Arizona court system in regards to DUI charges. Not only will our expert legal team be able to answer any questions you might have, they will also ensure that you understand what is happening along the way. We know how serious a DUI charge is – how high the stakes are – and we will be on your side every step of the way. 

If you or a loved one is facing a DUI charge, do not hesitate to contact our office and schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team.