The laws in each state regarding driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs and/or alcohol vary widely in how the offender is punished. The Arizona DUI laws are one of the nation’s toughest and individuals with a blood alcohol content (BAC) below 0.08 can be charged with a DUI. In the State of Arizona, this is known as being “impaired to the slightest degree”. Upon a routine traffic stop, if the police officer learns that you have been drinking or taking medication prescribed by a physician, they can charge you with a DUI.
The Laws Regarding Driving Under the Influence in Arizona
Arizona is a conservative state that has historically voted in favor of passing strict legislation regarding persons charged with a DUI. There are various levels assigned to DUI offenses which are outlined in the table below:
|
Impaired to the Slightest Degree BAC .08 or Greater Within Two Hours |
DUI Under Extreme Influence BAC .15 or Higher |
Super Extreme DUI Cases BAC over .20 |
Aggravated DUI Two or More Convictions in Past 7 Years or Driving on Suspended License |
|
10 Days in Jail |
30 Days in Jail |
90 Days in Jail |
4 Months in Prison |
|
$250 Fine |
$250 Fine |
$500 Fine |
Class 4 Felony |
|
Alcohol Treatment Program |
Alcohol Treatment Program |
Mandatory Alcohol Treatment Program |
Up to $150,000 in Fines Plus $1,500 Assessment |
|
Possible License Suspension |
License Suspension |
One Year License Suspension |
Drivers License Revoked for 3 Years |
|
$500 Prison Construction Fine |
$1000 Prison Construction Fine |
$1250 Prison Construction Fine |
$1500 Prison Construction Fine |
|
$500 Department of Public Safety Fine |
$1000 Department of Public Safety Fine |
$1250 Department of Public Safety Fine |
$1500 Department of Public Safety Fine |
|
Pay for Jail Costs |
Pay for Jail Costs |
Pay for Jail Costs |
Forfeiture of Vehicle |
|
Up to 5 Years Probation |
Up to 5 Years Probation |
Up to 5 Years Probation |
Up to 10 Years Probation |
|
Ignition Interlock for One Year |
Ignition Interlock After License Reinstatement |
Ignition Interlock For 18 Months |
Ignition Interlock Installed in All Vehicles |
|
DMV Will Assess Points Against Your License |
$250 DUI Abatement Fund Fee |
DMV Will Assess Points Against Your License |
250 DUI Abatement Fund Fee |
Each of these offenses can carry much harsher penalties if convicted of the same offense a second or third time. Arizona has what’s called the “Implied Consent Law” which means that if an officer requests that you take a breath, blood or urine test, you must comply. If you refuse, you license will be suspended for a minimum of a year, even if you are not convicted of a DUI offense. You may request a hearing at the Motor Vehicle Division within 15 days of your arrest to request a hearing regarding license suspension.
Get Expert Legal Help
Since the laws in Arizona are extremely complex, you will need an experienced defense attorney who specializes in drunk driving offenses. Your attorney may be able to work out a plea agreement with the District Attorney to minimize the level of punishment imposed. Whenever you are facing serious jail time and huge fines, it’s best to get a professional on your side to defend your rights.
