Arizona is very strict when it comes to drinking and driving. First, it is much easier to charge someone with a DUI in Arizona; the only proof that is required is evidence that they were “impaired to the slightest degree” when operating a vehicle. Second, there are varying levels of DUI charges, and the greater the charge, the harsher the penalties. The basic DUI charge is a misdemeanor charge, and it typically applies when a driver has a BAC of 0.08% or higher. A driver can be issued an Extreme DUI when their BAC is 0.15% or greater within two hours of operating a vehicle or being in actual physical control of a vehicle. Because this charge indicates a high level of intoxication and because it carries harsher penalties, it is imperative that those facing an extreme DUI charge in the greater Phoenix area seek out superior legal counsel. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
In Arizona, driving under the influence (DUI) laws are some of the strictest in the country and one of the classifications under these laws is “Extreme DUI.” Extreme DUI refers to a situation where a driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is significantly above the legal limit, leading to harsher penalties compared to a standard DUI.
Under Arizona law, a standard DUI is defined as operating a vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. However, when a driver’s BAC reaches 0.15% or higher but less than 0.20%, the offense is classified as an Extreme DUI.
The penalties for an Extreme DUI in Arizona are more severe than those for a standard DUI. For a first-time Extreme DUI offense, the consequences may include all of the following.
Mandatory Jail Time: A first-time Extreme DUI conviction carries a minimum jail sentence of 30 days. Unlike some standard DUI cases, where a portion of the jail sentence can be suspended, the law mandates that a portion of the jail time for Extreme DUI must be served, though some alternatives may be available, such as home detention.
Fines and Surcharges: A person convicted of Extreme DUI faces fines and surcharges that can exceed $2,500. These costs can quickly escalate when including additional court fees, costs related to probation, and expenses for alcohol education programs.
License Suspension: Upon conviction, your driver’s license will be suspended for a minimum of 90 days. After this period, you may be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle for 12 months.
Mandatory Alcohol Education and Treatment: Convicted individuals must attend alcohol screening, education, and treatment programs, which they must pay for out of pocket.
Probation and Community Service: The court may impose probation and community service requirements as part of the sentence.
For repeat offenders, the penalties are even more severe, including longer jail sentences, higher fines, and extended use of an ignition interlock device.
A good Phoenix DUI defense lawyer may be able to get your charges reduced to a regular misdemeanor DUI, or even dismissed altogether. Attorney James E. Novak is a highly experienced criminal defense attorney who largely focuses on DUI defense cases. His concentration on DUI law gives him in-depth knowledge which he uses to his clients’’ advantage at every possible opportunity. He knows the complex details that go into a DUI case and will carefully examine your case to find the best defense for your specific situation.
While there are many potential defenses to DUI charges, some of the most common DUI defenses include:
With an outstanding attorney like James Novak on your side, even if you are facing an Extreme DUI, there is plenty of reason to hope for a dismissal or a lesser conviction.
If you were recently arrested and charged with an extreme DUI, it is essential that you do everything possible to tilt the scales in your favor. At the Law Office of James E. Novak, our Phoenix extreme DUI attorney has more than 25 years of experience aggressively representing the interests of clients charged with these serious crimes. We understand the best DUI defenses, when they apply, and how to use them to minimize your exposure and resolve your case in the most favorable way possible. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call us at 480-413-1499. You can also reach us through our secure online contact form.