The prospect of being arrested for a DUI or other similar vehicular crime can be a scary one, but it is not all over when you get pulled over. You can avoid the penalties if you keep your head and follow some simple guidelines to deal with a DUI accusation. From finding an appropriate lawyer to acting appropriately in the presence of the police, there are a number of things you can do to improve your chances in a DUI arrest situation.
We have put together a basic guide to how to handle a DUI arrest in Arizona, from the basics of what you face if convicted to how to find a lawyer to support you in your case. We are also covering the absolute basics of what a DUI charge is and how this type of misdemeanor works. Our guide should give you a better sense of how DUI charges work and what you can do to give yourself the best chances of avoiding conviction. Remember, just because you have been stopped by the police does not mean you are automatically going to jail! So if you have got any questions about DUI cases in Arizona, read on below to find out everything you need to know!
What is a DUI?
DUI stands for “Driving Under [the] Influence.” That means the influence of alcohol, drugs, or anything else that might impair your ability to drive safely and responsibly. The penalties are quite serious, as irresponsible driving puts both you and the general public at risk – the best way to avoid a DUI is simply to be careful and responsible with your driving!
According to AZ state law, you can be charged with DUI if your BAC (blood alcohol concentration) level is 0.08% or higher at any point within two hours of driving. That is not a very high percentage at all, so you should be careful.
DUI convictions can also happen when you are under the influence of things that are not drugs. If you are even a tiny bit impaired after the use of drugs, either legal or illegal, you can be found guilty of DUI. It is not just BAC that can cause arrests and convictions!
Penalties for a DUI in Arizona
A standard DUI in Arizona is a misdemeanor, meaning that you can face a range of criminal penalties for a first-time offense. This includes 10 days in jail without probation, a $250+ fine, the mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device in all of your vehicles, possible community service requirements, and a range of screening and education options for drugs and alcohol. Drug-based DUI charges do not necessarily require the installation of an ignition interlock device, but this is mandatory for all alcohol DUI convictions.
If you have any aggravating factors, such as driving with an invalid license, or repeat offenses, then your DUI could be upgraded to a felony charge. Felony DUI charges are much harsher, with consequences of up to 8 months in prison and an average fine of around $4000.
Finding a DUI and Vehicular Crimes Lawyer
One of the most important things to do if you find yourself on the receiving end of DUI charges is to immediately contact a lawyer who specializes in vehicular crimes. Look for a larger law firm with a wide library of lawyers in order to find specialists – large firms like the Cantor Law Group are a good starting point. If you have got friends who have dealt with DUI charges before, ask them about their lawyers! A personal recommendation can be very valuable when you are looking for a DUI lawyer.
Conclusion
This is just the basics of how DUI charges work. The most important thing to remember, if you are foolish enough to drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, is that you should contact a lawyer immediately. A vehicular crimes lawyer can help you with even the stickiest DUI situation, so do not lose hope. Good legal support is a vital part of avoiding the worst possible result here, and it is important to stay calm and take things slowly and carefully. Remember, being stopped by an officer is not the end, and you still have plenty of chances to get out of a potentially difficult situation after this point!
Talha Ali is your tech generalist, covering a wide spectrum of topics within the ever-evolving world of technology. With a curiosity for the latest innovations, industry trends, and breakthroughs. Whether it’s hardware, software, emerging technologies, or the intersection of tech with daily life, Talha’s articles provide readers with a well-rounded perspective on the dynamic landscape of the tech industry.