Phoenix DUI Lawyers: Comprehensive Defense for DUI Charges in Arizona

• Understanding DUI Charges in Phoenix, Arizona

  A DUI charge in Phoenix, Arizona, means that you have been accused of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The legal consequences for a DUI can vary significantly depending on the circumstances of your case, such as your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC), whether it’s your first offense, and if any aggravating factors are present. Each DUI type carries its own set of penalties and legal challenges, but with a seasoned Phoenix DUI Lawyer by your side, you can build a strong defense to mitigate the charges.

  Let’s break down each DUI type and explore how Phoenix DUI Lawyers can defend against them.

• Misdemeanor DUI in Phoenix

  • Misdemeanor DUI in Phoenix

    A Misdemeanor DUI is the most common type of DUI charge in Phoenix, and it is generally charged when a person’s BAC is at or above the legal limit of 0.08%. While misdemeanors are considered less severe than felonies, they can still lead to serious legal consequences, including fines, jail time, and a criminal record that could impact future employment and other aspects of your life.

    Penalties for a Misdemeanor DUI in Phoenix

    If convicted of a first-time misdemeanor DUI in Phoenix, the penalties may include:

    • Up to 10 days in jail (with the possibility of suspension with completed alcohol education courses).
    • Fines starting at $1,250.
    • 90-day driver’s license suspension.
    • Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for a minimum of one year.
    • Alcohol education and treatment programs.

    For a second offense within seven years, the penalties become much more severe, including longer jail sentences, higher fines, and extended ignition interlock device requirements.

    Defending Against Misdemeanor DUI Charges

    Phoenix DUI Lawyers will evaluate every aspect of your arrest, from the initial traffic stop to the administration of field sobriety tests and breathalyzer tests. These elements are crucial, as any errors made during these processes can result in reduced charges or even the dismissal of your case. At Arizona DUI Pros, we take a thorough approach to challenging DUI evidence, and we work tirelessly to protect our clients from harsh penalties.

• Standard DUI in Phoenix: BAC Levels and Legal Limits

  A Standard DUI in Arizona applies when a driver has a BAC of 0.08% or higher but less than 0.15%. This is considered the lowest level of DUI offense, but that doesn’t mean it carries light penalties. Even for a first-time offender, the consequences can be significant.

  Penalties for Standard DUI in Phoenix

  For a first-time Standard DUI, the penalties include:

  • Jail Time: A minimum of 10 days in jail, though 9 days may be suspended with the completion of an alcohol education course.
  • Fines: At least $1,500 in fines and court costs.
  • Driver’s License Suspension: A mandatory 90-day license suspension.
  • Ignition Interlock Device: Required for a minimum of 12 months once the suspension is lifted.
  • Alcohol Treatment and Education: Mandatory attendance at alcohol counseling or treatment programs.

  If convicted of a second Standard DUI within a seven-year period, the penalties include:

  • 90 days in jail, with at least 30 days mandatory jail time.
  • Fines of over $3,000.
  • One-year driver’s license suspension.
  • Ignition Interlock Device: Required for 18 months.

  The consequences for a third offense or more within seven years can elevate the charge to a felony, which comes with much more severe consequences.

  Defense Strategies for Standard DUI

  Phoenix DUI Lawyers are well-versed in defending against Standard DUI charges. The key elements of a strong defense include examining whether the arresting officer had probable cause to stop your vehicle, challenging the results of field sobriety and breathalyzer tests, and identifying any procedural errors that may have occurred during your arrest. At Arizona DUI Pros, we understand the importance of building a defense that can help minimize the impact on your life.

• Extreme DUI in Phoenix: BAC Between 0.15% and 0.199%

  Extreme DUI in Phoenix: BAC Between 0.15% and 0.199%

  An Extreme DUI is charged when a person’s BAC is between 0.15% and 0.199%. While this charge is still considered a misdemeanor, it carries significantly harsher penalties than a standard DUI due to the higher level of intoxication.

  Penalties for Extreme DUI in Phoenix

  For a first-time Extreme DUI, the penalties include:

  • 30 days in jail, with the possibility of suspending some of the time if alcohol counseling or treatment is completed.
  • Fines of at least $2,500.
  • Driver’s license suspension for 90 days.
  • Mandatory ignition interlock device for at least one year.
  • Alcohol education and treatment programs.

  For a second Extreme DUI within a seven-year period, the penalties escalate:

  • 120 days in jail, with no possibility of suspension.
  • Fines totaling over $3,000.
  • Driver’s license revocation for one year.
  • Ignition interlock device for a minimum of two years.

  Building a Defense for Extreme DUI Charges

  Given the severity of an Extreme DUI, it is critical to have a knowledgeable Phoenix DUI Lawyer who can craft a robust defense strategy. At Arizona DUI Pros, we examine every aspect of your case, from the calibration of the breathalyzer device to the conditions under which the BAC test was administered. We understand the devastating impact that an Extreme DUI conviction can have, and we will work diligently to protect your rights and seek a reduction or dismissal of the charges.

• Super Extreme DUI: The Most Severe Misdemeanor DUI in Phoenix

  A Super Extreme DUI is charged when a person’s BAC is 0.20% or higher, making it the most serious misdemeanor DUI offense in Arizona. The penalties for a Super Extreme DUI are severe, reflecting the heightened danger posed by such a high level of intoxication.

  Penalties for Super Extreme DUI in Phoenix

  A first-time Super Extreme DUI conviction carries the following penalties:

  • 45 days in jail, with no possibility of suspension.
  • Fines exceeding $3,250.
  • Driver’s license suspension for 90 days.
  • Mandatory ignition interlock device for at least one year.
  • Alcohol counseling and treatment programs.

  For a second Super Extreme DUI offense within seven years, the penalties are significantly harsher:

  • 180 days in jail, with no possibility of early release until at least 90 days have been served.
  • Fines exceeding $4,500.
  • License revocation for one year.
  • Ignition interlock device for at least two years.
  • Alcohol education and counseling programs.

  Super Extreme DUI Defense Strategies

  A Super Extreme DUI charge demands an aggressive and well-prepared defense. At Arizona DUI Pros, we specialize in defending clients facing these charges by carefully examining every aspect of the arrest process and the evidence presented by the prosecution. We may challenge the validity of the BAC test, the legality of the traffic stop, or any violations of your constitutional rights that may have occurred during the arrest. Our goal is to reduce the severity of the charges or, when possible, achieve an outright dismissal.

• Felony DUI in Phoenix: When a DUI Charge Becomes a Felony

  In some cases, a DUI charge can be elevated to a felony offense. Known as Aggravated DUI in Arizona, these charges typically result from certain aggravating factors being present during the arrest, such as having prior DUI convictions or driving with a suspended license.

  Aggravating Factors Leading to Felony DUI Charges

  You can be charged with a Felony DUI in Phoenix if any of the following circumstances are present:

  • Three or more DUI convictions within seven years.
  • Driving with a suspended, revoked, or restricted license at the time of the arrest.
  • A child under the age of 15 was in the vehicle at the time of the DUI.
  • Refusing to submit to a chemical test after being ordered by law enforcement.
  • Causing serious injury or death to another person while driving under the influence.

  Penalties for Felony DUI in Phoenix

  A first-time Felony DUI conviction can result in the following penalties:

  • Up to 2.5 years in state prison for a first aggravated DUI offense.
  • Fines exceeding $4,000.
  • Driver’s license revocation for three years.
  • Mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs.
  • Ignition interlock device for at least two years once your license is reinstated.

  A second or subsequent Felony DUI conviction carries even more severe penalties, including up to 7 years in state prison.

  Defending Against Felony DUI Charges

  A Felony DUI charge can be life-altering, which is why it’s crucial to have an experienced Phoenix DUI Lawyer on your side. At Arizona DUI Pros, we understand the complexities of defending against felony DUI charges. Our defense strategies include challenging the constitutionality of the traffic stop, contesting the results of BAC and chemical tests, and negotiating for reduced charges or alternative sentencing options. We are committed to defending your rights and working towards the best possible outcome in your case.

• Marijuana DUI in Phoenix: Navigating Post-Legalization DUI Laws

  • Although recreational marijuana is legal in Arizona, driving under the influence of marijuana remains illegal. A Marijuana DUI occurs when a driver operates a vehicle while impaired by marijuana, even if it was legally obtained and consumed.

    Penalties for Marijuana DUI in Phoenix

    The penalties for a first-time Marijuana DUI conviction are similar to those for alcohol-related DUIs:

    • Up to 10 days in jail, with the possibility of suspension if substance abuse programs are completed.
    • Fines starting at $1,250.
    • 90-day driver’s license suspension.
    • Mandatory drug education or treatment.
    • Ignition interlock device may be required.

    For second or subsequent offenses, the penalties increase, including longer jail time, higher fines, and extended license suspensions.

    Defending Against Marijuana DUI Charges

    Defending against a Marijuana DUI charge can be challenging, especially because marijuana can stay in a person’s system long after its effects have worn off. Phoenix DUI Lawyers at Arizona DUI Pros will focus on whether you were truly impaired at the time of the arrest, rather than just having marijuana in your system. We will examine the results of field sobriety tests and chemical tests and look for any procedural errors that may have occurred during your arrest.

• Drug DUI in Phoenix: Driving Under the Influence of Drugs

  A Drug DUI charge occurs when a person is found driving under the influence of any drug, including prescription medications, if it impairs their ability to safely operate a vehicle. Arizona law does not distinguish between illegal drugs and prescription drugs when it comes to DUI charges.

  Penalties for Drug DUI in Phoenix

  The penalties for a first-time Drug DUI are comparable to those for alcohol and marijuana DUIs:

  • Up to 10 days in jail, some of which may be suspended with completion of a drug education program.
  • Fines starting at $1,250.
  • 90-day license suspension.
  • Mandatory drug treatment or education programs.

  For a second or subsequent Drug DUI offense, the penalties escalate significantly, including longer jail time, higher fines, and extended license suspensions.

  Defense Strategies for Drug DUI Charges

  A Drug DUI charge can be complicated, especially when prescription medications are involved. Phoenix DUI Lawyers at Arizona DUI Pros will carefully review whether the medications were legally prescribed, whether the impairment was due to the medication, and whether the arresting officers properly followed protocol. We are dedicated to crafting a defense that challenges the prosecution’s case and seeks to minimize or dismiss the charges against you.