DUI Law in Phoenix, AZ

What Is a DUI?

DUI, which refers to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, is a criminal offense that can lead to weighty consequences. Also known as DWI, the process of going to court to face either conviction or exoneration can change the course of your life forever.

Learn more about your DUI law defense options below, and then talk to a local attorney in Phoenix, Arizona who will help you in this delicate situation. You don’t have to stare down consequences alone. You can take wise steps today to protect your interests.

Possible Consequences of a Phoenix, Arizona DUI Conviction

Where you live, the severity of the incident, and your criminal record determine the sentencing for a DUI. The punishments can drastically increase if you have had previous DUIs, so be mindful of that. If this is your first DUI, do not go at it alone and risk costly mistakes. Get a Phoenix law firm on your side to fight for you and your rights.

Paying Fines

If convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Phoenix, Arizona, you can count on fines being a part of your sentencing. According to The Arizona Department of Transportation, a first offense DUI in Phoenix carries a stiff penalty of $1,250 in fines, minimum. The maximum fine you could pay is as high as $2,500.

However, other factors can drastically increase the amount you must pay, including:

  • Any damage to property while driving under the influence
  • If someone suffered injuries as a result of your intoxicated driving
  • Cases that include child endangerment
  • Any court costs associated with your case

Jail Time

Jail time is mandatory, even for first-time offenders in Phoenix. If this is your first DUI offense, you may only have to face a day or two in prison. But if you have previous convictions for DUIs, you can be sentenced to several months or years, depending on the nature of the crime. Know that some circumstances can add even more time in a cell, including injury to other people while driving under the influence.

Probation

If you do not face jail time, you will likely be on probation, with the sentencing judge determining the duration. You will pay monthly fees, and you cannot commit any more criminal offenses, including traffic violations. If you violate the terms of your probation, count on facing time behind bars.

Arizona residents that are given probation will be assigned a probation officer. You must be responsible and meet with the probation officer as assigned, on a regular basis. Your probation officer may also ask you to submit to random drug tests, and make surprise inspection visits to your residence. Failure to comply with these protocols may result in jail time and or the revocation of your probation. Arizona residents may also be required to abstain from drug use, undergo counseling, and perform community service. In Phoenix, there is a U.S. Probation office in the Sandra Day O’Connor Courthouse.

Drug and Alcohol Education Program

Following a Phoenix DUI sentencing, the law states you must complete a drug and alcohol education program. This will teach you about the dangers of driving under the influence. These programs cost more fees besides the legal costs you already have to pay.

If you have been arrested for DUI in Phoenix, it’s likely you’ll have to complete a course on substance abuse. For example, the Stonewall Institute in Phoenix allows you to complete these court mandated classes online. After a screening and assessment period, you will be assigned to a dedicated behavioral health technician to guide you through your classes. Once you’ve completed your course, you will be automatically submitted to the Phoenix Motor Vehicle Department for the reinstatement of your license.

The education programs also include a DUI evaluation. An evaluator asks you questions about how alcohol and drugs affect your life. If they believe that you are dependent, you may have to enter a substance abuse treatment program.

Suspension or Loss of License

No matter where you may face a DUI conviction, you have to undergo a license suspension period, at the very least. If it is your first DUI, you may have a license suspension for a few months while you go through probation and the drug and alcohol education program.

If this is not your first DUI, you may have your license suspended for much longer, or you could have it taken from you permanently.

What Should You Do When Charged With a DUI in Phoenix, Arizona?

If you’re facing a felony DUI charge, you must take the following steps to protect yourself:

Step 1: Contact an Attorney Familiar With Phoenix, AZ  DUI Law

Immediately following your DUI arrest, you need to contact an experienced Phoenix DUI attorney. Your attorney can help prepare for your arraignment and prepare a defense to vindicate yourself or reduce the sentencing.

Step 2: Learn About Your Local DUI Laws

Phoenix, Arizona has unique laws for DUI or DWI charges. Your lawyer will work with you to help you better understand your state’s laws on driving while intoxicated. It is critical to understand what charges you face and the potential outcomes of your case. 

Step 3: Request a DMV Hearing

You or your attorney should request a hearing as soon as possible following your arrest. In Phoenix, Arizona you only have so much time to ask for a DMV hearing to keep your license until your court appearance. If you do not request a hearing, prepare for a license suspension.

The Arizona Department of Motor Vehicles NOW provides an online service to allow you to request a hearing. You can also request a hearing through the U.S. Postal Service, or deliver a written request by hand. However, you must do this in a timely manner. Failure to file within 15 days of receiving notice can cause your license to be suspended.

Step 4: Prepare for Court Appearance

You and your attorney will prepare for your appearance and arraignment in Phoenix. If you plead “not guilty,” your DUI defense attorney represents you in court, and a judge and jury oversee the DUI law case.

Step 5: Receive Sentencing or Exoneration

You will either be “not guilty” of the charges brought against you and walk free, or you will receive sentencing for a guilty verdict.

Work with an Experienced Local DUI Lawyer in Phoenix, Arizona

Should you ever find yourself charged with a DUI, you need to work with an experienced Phoenix, Arizona lawyer who can stand up for you in court. You cannot clear your name of the charges or reduce the consequences without help. Your life and future depend on having great legal representation during your DUI case. Contact an attorney near you today. We can even help you connect with legal help across Arizona state lines.

Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!

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