Arizona DUI laws will vary according to how many times you have been arrested for a DUI offense. For each offense the penalties will continue to become more severe. People that are convicted of a Arizona first offense DUI could face possible jail time, suspended license, fines, and more.
Arizona DUI Generally
In Arizona it is against the law to drive or be in physical control of a vehicle if you are under the influence of intoxicating liquor, or any drugs- including vapor-releasing substances. A person can also be convicted of a DUI if he or she has a blood alcohol level of .08 or more within two hours of driving or being in control of the vehicle. Commercial vehicle operators will be charged with a DUI if they have a blood alcohol level of .004
Arizona DUI First Offense Charges and Penalties
Arizona first offender DUI’s will be convicted of a misdemeanor. Arizona Defendant’s must serve as least 10 days in jail and probation or suspension of jail time will not be allowed. The minimum fine associated with a first offense DUI is $250. Other fines will include a DUI surcharge of $200, a probation surcharge of $20, and two DUI assessments of $500 each. Therefore the overall fine a DUI defendant can face is a minimum of $1470. Along with the fines and jail time associated with an AZ DUI first offense, a defendant will also have his or her license suspended between 90-360 days. Depending on the judge, the court could order that an ignition interlock device be installed on the defendant’s car. This device requires that driver blow into it before the car will start.
Arizona Extreme DUI
A drunk driver in Arizona can be convicted of Extreme DUI if he or she has a blood alcohol concentration level of 0.15 or higher while driving or within two hours of driving or being in control of a car. A first offense Extreme DUI is still a misdemeanor but the penalties are more severe. The fine increases to $2400 and the license suspension is for one year. Also the interlock ignition device installation is mandatory.
Seeking Legal Advice
Facing a DUI is a serious offense and the penalties that accompany a DUI can be very overwhelming. Make sure you consult an attorney as soon as possible. Only a licensed attorney licensed to practice law in Arizona can provide you with the guidance and assistance you will need to ensure the best possible outcome.
