Facing a driving under the influence (DUI) charge can leave you with very serious concerns about your life. If your charge escalates to an extreme DUI, your concerns can double due to the more severe consequences.
Arizona imposes strict DUI laws, emphasizing the state’s commitment to combat drunk driving. In this intricate situation, it is crucial to understand the legal principles surrounding your DUI arrest.
How extreme DUI differs from other DUI charges
In Arizona, you can face an extreme DUI charge when your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) registers at 0.15% or higher – nearly twice the legal limit of 0.08%. Even if you are a first-time offender, you can still face an extreme DUI charge if you exceed the BAC level within two hours of driving or being in control of a vehicle. While extreme DUI is still a Class 1 misdemeanor, it carries harsher penalties than regular DUI.
Extreme DUI can have severe consequences
While extreme DUI may be considered a misdemeanor, you must still take the charge seriously. It could have severe consequences and implications for your life.
- Fines: You may have to pay a fine of at least $2,500. This monetary penalty could increase depending on the number of previous offenses.
- Jail time: You could face jail time of at least 30 days, even on your first offense. Repeat offenses might lead to at least 120 days in prison.
- License suspension: The court could suspend or revoke your license for 12 months on your second and subsequent offenses.
- Ignition interlock device installation: For every offense, you may need to install a certified ignition interlock device on your vehicle for 12 months.
- Mandatory classes: The court could require you to undergo alcohol screening, education or treatment for every offense. They might also order community service as part of your sentence.
In addition to these penalties, an extreme DUI conviction stays on your record, which could affect your career, especially if you are in the driving industry.
Responding to extreme DUI charges
With the serious implications of extreme DUI charges, seeking legal guidance can help you understand your case, challenge the validity of any evidence and negotiate reduced charges or alternative sentences.
An extreme DUI charge can be frightening, but you do not have to handle this alone. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can be a strong ally, protecting your rights and developing effective defenses that are aligned with your best interest.