Extreme and Super Extreme DUI FAQs

Respected Phoenix Criminal Defense Lawyer with Extensive Experience Representing Clients Facing Felony and Misdemeanor DUI Charges

Every DUI case in Arizona is serious, given the state’s strict impaired driving laws. However, extreme DUI cases carry especially harsh consequences. At the same time, Arizona’s extreme DUI law is not intuitive, and it’s easy to get confused because state law classifies DUIs in several different ways. The Law Office of James E. Novak is a respected Phoenix DUI defense law firm with decades of experience handling these complex cases. Attorney James Novak has successfully handled countless DUI cases on behalf of his clients and knows what it takes to obtain the best result possible for each of his clients.

The Top Three Extreme and Super Extreme DUI FAQs

What Are the Three Types of DUIs in Arizona?

Arizona classifies all driving under the influence offenses as DUI, extreme DUI and super extreme DUI. Prosecutors bring regular DUI charges when a driver has a blood alcohol content of less than .15. Extreme DUI charges are filed where the driver has a blood alcohol content between .15 and .20. And finally, a super extreme DUI involves a driver whose blood alcohol content is over. 20.

What Is the Punishment for an Extreme DUI?

Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-1382, extreme DUI is a class 1 misdemeanor. Anyone convicted of an extreme DUI faces harsh penalties, which include:

• 30 consecutive days in jail,
• A fine of at least $250,
• Assessments totaling at least $2,250,
• Mandatory completion of an approved traffic safety survival school, and
• Possible restitution or community service.

However, judges have the discretion to suspend all but nine days of the mandatory 30-day sentence if you install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle for 12 months.

What Is the Punishment for Super Extreme DUI?

Super extreme DUIs are as serious as they come. While the offense is still considered a class 1 misdemeanor, the punishment for a super extreme DUI is much harsher and includes:

• 45 consecutive days in jail,
• A fine of at least $250,
• Assessments totaling at least $2,250,
• Mandatory completion of an approved traffic safety survival school, and
• Possible restitution or community service.

As is the case with extreme DUIs, the judge overseeing your case has the ability to suspend all but 14 days of the mandatory 45-day jail sentence.

What Is the Difference Between an Aggravated DUI and an Extreme DUI?

The classifications of DUI, extreme DUI and super extreme DUI all deal with a driver’s blood alcohol content. However, Arizona law also provides for an aggravated DUI under A.R.S. § 28-1383. Under this statute, any DUI can become an aggravated DUI if one or more of the following apply:

• Your driver’s license was suspended,
• You were transporting a minor under the age of 15,
• You have two prior DUI convictions within the previous seven years,
• You failed to install a required ignition interlock device, or
• You were driving the wrong way on a highway.

Aggravated DUIs are all felony offenses, which makes them more serious than even super extreme DUIs. For example, a first-time aggravated DUI conviction can carry a mandatory four months in jail.

Do You Have Questions About Pending DUI Charges?

While these extreme and super extreme DUI FAQs are a good starting point, if you’re facing these charges, you probably have more questions. If so, give the Law Office of James E. Novak a call to schedule a free consultation. We take pride in providing each of our clients with individualized attention, making sure we are available whenever you need us. For more than 25 years, Attorney Novak has aggressively defended good people who face serious DUI charges, helping them move past their arrests and get their lives back on track. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation with Attorney James Novak, call 480-413-1499 today. You can also reach us through our online contact form.