Out-of-State DUIs in Arizona

Posted on July 12, 2011 in General DUI Topics

Combine Arizona’s booming tourist industry and Arizona’s tough DUI enforcement and punishments, and the rationale behind the Arizona saying “Come on vacation, leave on probation” becomes all too apparent.

Regardless of the guilt or innocence of the driver, defending a DUI arrest in Arizona for an out-of-state driver can prove to be a logistical nightmare. Because most DUIs in Arizona are misdemeanors, criminal defendants are allowed to leave Arizona and return home.However, either the person or his or her attorney does need to be present at all Court appearances, or a warrant will be issued.

The logistics of simple court appearances aren’t the only thing that should cause an out-of-state alleged impaired driver concern. Ramifications to the person’s driver’s license in their home state should be a major concern for anyone arrested in AZ for DUI/DWI while carrying an out-of-state driver’s license. The significantimplications on a person’s ability to drive in their home state can be horrifying.

If you or someone that you know came to Arizona and received a DUI charge while here, an experienced Arizona DUI lawyer with an understanding of the interstate compact and the interrelationships between the Arizona MVD and other states’ MVDs/DMVs is essential.