If law enforcement stops you on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI), the experience can be unnerving at the very least.
You wonder what will happen next, what the penalties are for a first-time offender and whether you must spend any time behind bars.
Understanding procedures
When you accept a driver’s license in the state of Arizona, you automatically become subject to the Implied Consent Law. If stopped on suspicion of DUI, this means that you consent to take a test to determine the blood alcohol content (BAC) level in your bloodstream. A law enforcement officer might also ask you to take the field sobriety tests.
Facing penalties
If you refuse to test, you stand to lose your driving privileges for 12 months. If testing shows that your BAC level is 0.8% or higher, you will forfeit your driver’s license immediately. You must complete an alcohol screening in order to obtain a restricted license or to have your license restored. As a first offender, you could face jail time of up to 10 consecutive days. Your fine could be as much as $1,250, you must have a have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle and you must attend Traffic Survival School. The Motor Vehicle Division will also add 8 points to your driving record.
Building a defense strategy
Remember that you do not have to face a DUI charge alone. Your attorney will examine the circumstances surrounding your arrest to begin building a defense strategy on your behalf. Errors can happen between a faulty testing process to administrative procedures that might not have been carried out properly. You have an advocate on your side to ensure the best outcome possible for your case.