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ToggleLiving with the consequences can be rough if you are charged with a DUI. Convincing an Arizona judge to dismiss it is possible albeit extremely unlikely. Fighting the charge in court could be a better option.
Consequences of DUIs in Arizona
The Grand Canyon State does not mess around when it comes to drunk drivers. Courts sentence you as a first offender to a minimum of 10 days in jail. You also pay a fine of at least $1,250, undergo alcohol education and perform community service. Plus, the installation of an ignition interlock device in automobiles is mandatory.
Repeat offenders face even stricter punishments. You could get a sentence of at least three months behind bars on top of treatment and vehicle breath tests. Fines start at $3,000 and can go even higher.
Besides the immediate consequences, a DUI conviction will haunt you in the future. Getting jobs could become tougher, plus insurance rates may rise. Escaping legal condemnation remains a preferable alternative.
Countermeasures against DUIs in Arizona
Attorneys have a variety of arguments worthy of presentation before a judge. Your attorney may want to challenge the credibility of the arresting officer. Dash camera footage might show a lack of intoxication. Maybe you have a medical condition that causes you to seem intoxicated. These are but a few examples of savvy DUI defense strategies.
Sober individuals should not shoulder the burden society weighs on irresponsible drivers. If you are charged with a DUI, talking to a qualified attorney can help you strategize to what your best defense may be.
Author Bio
Matthew L. Lopez
Matthew L. Lopez is the Managing Attorney and founder of Matthew Lopez Law, a criminal defense and DUI firm serving clients throughout Arizona. His track record of case dismissals and charge reductions has earned him honors, including a National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 nomination, a “Superb” 10/10 Avvo rating, and a Rising Star designation by Super Lawyers.
Matthew is a member of the National College for DUI Defense and holds active memberships with the Arizona Association for Criminal Justice and the Arizona Association for Justice. His firm handles criminal defense, DUI, drug charges, and traffic offenses, offering free consultations and affordable payment plans to make quality defense accessible to all Arizonans.
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Practice areas
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Tempe
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Lake Havasu City
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Apache Junction
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Parker