Arizona one of the toughest states for DUI

Posted on February 5, 2016 in DUI Case

Law enforcement agencies throughout the Phoenix metro area take a very aggressive approach to curbing drunk driving. Various communities run sobriety checkpoints each weekend hoping to help keep impaired drivers off of the roadway. Those who are going out with friends or relatives need to know that they face strong penalties if they are charged with DUI.

Arizona has extremely severe consequences in place for those convicted of drunk driving. The state routine ranks near the top when it comes to strict DUI laws, and has made many changes over the years that make these laws even stronger.

The DUI laws within Arizona allow a motorist to be charged with drunk driving even if the individual is below the 0.08 percent blood-alcohol content (BAC) threshold. Impairment to the slightest degree is all that is required for officers to make an arrest. If the motorist is charged, they need to understand exactly what is at stake.

Even a first-offense DUI carries strong penalties in Arizona. Offenders may receive 10 days in jail and will lose their driving privileges for a significant period of time. Offenders may also be required to install ignition interlocks in their vehicles. In addition, they will face high fines and court costs that may leave them in a very difficult placefinancially.

If an offender is arrested and has a BAC above 0.15, the penalties are substantially higher. They may receive up to 30 days in jail if convicted of extreme DUI. Each offense increases the penalties that are handed down. Second-time offenders see more jail time and a longer license suspension.

It is important to know your rights if you are charged with DUI. A conviction of this crime could leave you facing very severe penalties that will last a lifetime. To better understand the options that are available to you at this time, you should speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney about your case.

Your attorney will be able to examine the evidence that law enforcement will be able to use against you. This will allow you to clearly understand the punishments that you will be facing, and help you make the right decisions for your future.