Penalties for a DUI on a Suspended License

Driving under the influence (DUI) in Arizona carries harsh penalties. A DUI on a suspended license will carry even harsher penalties. If you were arrested for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol while your license was suspended, you need an experienced DUI defense lawyer. Attorney James E. Novak has extensive knowledge and understanding of the DUI laws in Phoenix, AZ, and he can help you fight the charges against you.

What Is a Suspended License in Arizona?

In the state of Arizona, license suspension has specific start and end dates. At the end of the suspension, a driver can pay a reinstatement fee to get his or her license back. This is different from license revocation, which has no specific end date and requires a more intensive reinstatement process.

How Can a License Be Suspended?

Like many states, Arizona uses a point system. When points accrue on your license, it may eventually be suspended or revoked. Speeding and other “moving violations” accrue two to three points against a license. Hit and run accidents count for six points. A DUI adds eight points to a license. Drivers who accrue eight or more points within a single year may be subject to license suspension for up to 12 months.

What Are the Penalties for a DUI on a Suspended License?

Driving on a suspended license is considered a class 4 felony. The penalties of a DUI on a suspended license are worse. A DUI while your license is suspended may result in an aggravated DUI charge. The simple act of driving with a suspended license carries steep penalties.

The court may impound your vehicle for up to 30 days. You may also be required to spend a minimum of four months in prison, with no option to commute or pardon your sentence and no possibility of probation or release during that time.

With the addition of an aggravated DUI charge, you could spend up to three years in prison. The court may also revoke your license for up to three years, and you could face up to 10 years of probation. Your vehicle may be impounded and the court may require you to attend drug or alcohol treatment. Fines for an aggravated DUI can exceed $5,000.

How a Skilled DUI Attorney Can Help

If you were charged with aggravated DUI while driving on a suspended license, you need expert legal representation. Mr. Novak has successfully represented countless clients facing similar charges. He will argue a strong case to secure a reduced sentence so you can still obtain gainful employment and lead a fulfilling life in the future.

Call Attorney James E. Novak Today

Contact the Law Offices of James E. Novak today to speak with him about your case. He will review all the facts of the case and your unique situation to provide you with the best possible legal representation. He will make sure you receive fair treatment in court.