Types of Aggravated DUI in the State of Arizona

It is illegal to operate a vehicle if your blood alcohol content, or BAC, is .08 or higher. In the state of Arizona, there are certain factors that could result in an aggravated DUI conviction, or a felony, rather than a misdemeanor charge. Attorney James Novak has a thorough understanding of the different types of aggravated DUI in Phoenix, AZ, and we can provide you with the strong DUI defense you need.

DUI vs. Aggravated DUI

A DUI charge occurs any time a person is found guilty of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol with a BAC over .08. You can also be charged with a DUI if your BAC was below .08 but you still failed a field sobriety test. In general, a first time DUI offense like this is likely to result in a misdemeanor charge. You may face some fines, community service, and drug or alcohol counseling, but any jail time is likely kept to a minimum or waived.

Aggravated DUI involves not only committing the offense of driving under the influence but also committing another offense simultaneously. Conviction of an aggravated DUI will result in a felony charge that carries steep fines, jail time, revocation of your license, and more. It is important to understand Arizona’s laws surrounding aggravated DUI, as well as the potential consequences, before you get behind the wheel.

Types of Aggravated DUI

In Arizona, you can be charged with aggravated DUI for a number of reasons. These may include driving under the influence:

• While your driver’s license is suspended
• Within seven years of two previous DUIs
• With a person under the age of 15 in the vehicle

You are also likely to face aggravated DUI charges if you were involved in an accident that caused property damage, injury, or death to another person. Other types of aggravated DUI may include having a BAC more than twice the legal limit, driving under the influence through a school zone, and driving under the influence while uninsured.

Penalties for Aggravated DUI

With an aggravated DUI, you face a minimum of four to eight months in prison, without the potential for probation until that minimum has been served. For lesser aggravated DUI felony charges, you may serve as little as one day in jail. Other penalties include a revocation or suspension of your license, installation of an ignition interlocking device on your vehicle, and fines in excess of $750.

Aggravated DUI Defense

Aggravated DUIs are more complicated than misdemeanor DUI charges, so they require the expertise of a skilled and knowledgeable attorney. James Novak specializes in defending clients charged with DUI and can provide the strong and aggressive legal defense you need. He will work diligently to secure a reduced sentence in your favor whenever possible.

Contact The Law Office of James Novak

If you are facing charges of aggravated DUI, contact our law office right away to speak with James Novak about your case.