DUI Lawyer In Tucson

In Arizona, DUI stands for Driving Under the Influence. It is a criminal offense that occurs when a person operates a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or any combination of both. The law aims to deter individuals from driving while intoxicated to ensure road safety and prevent potential accidents and harm to the public.

Arizona, like most states, sets legal limits for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) to determine if a driver is under the influence. The BAC limits in Arizona are as follows:

• 0.08% BAC: For individuals aged 21 and above. If a driver's BAC level exceeds this limit, they are presumed to be impaired, and it can lead to a DUI charge.
• 0.04% BAC: For commercial drivers operating commercial vehicles, such as trucks and buses. Commercial drivers are held to a stricter standard due to the potential risks involved with operating large vehicles while impaired.
• 0.00% BAC: For drivers under the age of 21. Arizona has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving, meaning any trace of alcohol in the system can lead to a DUI charge for drivers under 21.

It is essential to note that DUI charges in Arizona are not limited to alcohol impairment only. A driver can be charged with DUI if they are under the influence of drugs, including illegal drugs, prescription medications, or over-the-counter medications that impair their ability to safely operate a vehicle.

Arizona operates under "per se" DUI laws, which means that if a driver's BAC level exceeds the legal limit, they can be charged with DUI even if there is no evidence of impairment observed by law enforcement. In other words, exceeding the legal BAC limit is sufficient evidence for a DUI conviction.

Implied Consent Law:

Arizona has an implied consent law, which means that by obtaining a driver's license and driving on the state's roads, drivers implicitly consent to submit to chemical testing (breath, blood, or urine) if lawfully arrested for suspicion of DUI. Refusing to take the test can result in automatic license suspension.

Aggravating Factors:

Certain circumstances can lead to more severe penalties for DUI offenders, such as having prior DUI convictions, driving with a suspended license, having a child under 15 years old in the vehicle while driving under the influence, or causing serious injury or death as a result of a DUI-related accident.

We understand that mistakes can happen, and good people can make poor decisions. If you find yourself facing a DUI charge, remember that our experienced DUI firm is here to support and guide you through the legal process.

As mentioned earlier, Arizona takes DUI offenses seriously, and the consequences can be severe, especially for repeat offenders.

First-Time DUI Offense:

For a first-time DUI conviction in Arizona, the penalties may include:

• Jail time: A minimum of 10 consecutive days in jail, with the possibility of up to six months. However, the court may reduce this to one day if you complete a court-approved alcohol or drug screening program.
• Fines: You may face fines of up to $1,500, not including additional court costs and fees.
• License suspension: Your driver's license may be suspended for a minimum of 90 days. You might be eligible for a restricted driver's license after serving 30 days of the suspension.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Installation of an IID in your vehicle is mandatory, which requires you to pass a breath test before starting the car and at random intervals while driving, typically for 12 to 18 months.
• Probation: You may be placed on probation for up to five years, during which you must comply with all court-ordered conditions.

Second-Time DUI Offense (within 7 years of the first offense):

For a second DUI conviction within a 7-year period, the penalties become more severe:

• Jail time: A minimum of 90 days in jail, with the possibility of up to six months. As with the first offense, the court may reduce this to 30 days if you complete a substance abuse screening program.
• Fines: Fines may increase up to $3,500, plus additional court costs and fees.
• License suspension: Your driver's license may be suspended for one year, with the possibility of obtaining a restricted license after serving 45 days.
• IID: An IID is mandatory, typically for one to two years.
• Probation: You may face up to five years of probation, along with the associated conditions.

Third-Time DUI Offense (within 7 years of the first offense):

A third DUI conviction within a 7-year period is considered a felony in Arizona, and the penalties escalate significantly:

• Prison time: You may face a minimum of four months in prison, with the possibility of up to 2.5 years.
• Fines: Fines may increase to $150,000 or more, in addition to court costs and fees.
• License revocation: Your driver's license will be revoked, and you may be eligible for reinstatement after serving two years.
• IID: An IID will be mandatory, typically for two to three years.
• Probation: You may face up to five years of probation, along with the associated conditions.

It's crucial to note that the penalties mentioned above are for standard DUI offenses. If a DUI results in serious injury or death, the consequences can be much more severe, including significant prison time, extended license suspension or revocation, and a permanent criminal record.

As your compassionate DUI attorney in Tucson, we understand the gravity of these penalties and are committed to providing you with the best possible defense to protect your rights and future. Our goal is to help you navigate the legal process and achieve the most favorable outcome given the circumstances of your case.

Facing DUI charges in Tucson, Arizona, can be a distressing and life-altering experience. Arizona takes driving under the influence seriously, and the penalties for a DUI conviction can be severe, especially for repeat offenders. The consequences may include jail time, substantial fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education programs, probation, and the installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle.

As your dedicated DUI attorney in Tucson, we are here to offer you both confidence and compassion during this challenging time. We understand the emotional toll a DUI charge can take on your life, and our mission is to provide you with the support, guidance, and strong legal representation you need.

If you have been charged with a DUI, contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation. Our goal with the case evaluation is to help clarify  the charges you face and help you understand what your next steps need to be. Our firm serves the areas of Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, South Tucson and other areas around Pima County. We can also serve those who live in Nogales, Rio Rico and other areas in Santa Cruz County.