Arizona Extreme DUI Penalties & Defenses

In Arizona, a standard DUI applies to drivers with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. However, an Extreme DUI applies to cases where the driver’s BAC is 0.15% or higher within two hours of driving. Arizona also enforces a Super Extreme DUI category for BAC levels of 0.20% or higher, which carries even stricter penalties and longer jail terms.

Arizona is known for its strict DUI laws, and an extreme DUI conviction carries severe penalties that escalate with repeated offenses. Below is an overview of the potential penalties:

First-Time Extreme DUI

• Jail Time: Minimum of 30 consecutive days.
• Fines: Up to $2,500, including surcharges.
• License Suspension: 90 days.
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): Mandatory for at least 12 months.
• Probation: Up to five years.
• Alcohol Education: Enrollment in court-ordered substance abuse programs.

Second-Time Extreme DUI (Within 7 Years)

• Jail Time: Minimum of 120 days.
• Fines: $3,250 or more.
• License Revocation: One year.
• IID Installation: 12-24 months required.
• Probation: Up to five years.

Community Service & Vehicle Impoundment: 30-day impoundment possible.

If your BAC is 0.20% or higher, the penalties increase significantly:

• First-Time Super Extreme DUI: 45 days in jail and higher fines.

Second-Time Super Extreme DUI: 180 days in jail and extended license revocation.

An extreme DUI conviction can disrupt many areas of your life, including:

• Increased Insurance Rates: Insurance premiums will rise, and some companies may cancel your policy.
• Employment Risks: Jobs requiring a clean driving record or professional license may be jeopardized.
• Travel Restrictions: Some countries, such as Canada, may deny entry based on DUI convictions.
• Permanent Criminal Record: Arizona law does not allow DUI convictions to be removed, though some convictions may be “set aside” if all conditions are met.

At Guardian Law Group, we work hard to help minimize these long-term impacts and protect your future. Call us today at (480) 316-4618 for the legal support you need.

We employ a variety of strategies to defend against extreme DUI charges, depending on your specific case:

1. Unlawful Traffic Stop: If the police did not have reasonable grounds to stop you, we can seek to have the charge dismissed.
2. Faulty BAC Testing: We investigate whether the testing devices were properly calibrated or if any testing procedures were violated.
3. Officer Misconduct: Improper handling of field sobriety or BAC tests can lead to the dismissal of charges.
4. Medical Conditions or Medications: Health conditions like diabetes or GERD can yield falsely high BAC results.

Rising BAC Defense: Your BAC may have risen after you stopped driving, weakening the prosecution’s evidence.

When you are facing extreme DUI charges, you need an aggressive legal team on your side. Guardian Law Group will:

• Evaluate the Evidence: We meticulously review all details of your case to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.
• Negotiate for Reduced Charges: When possible, we work to reduce your charge to a standard DUI with lighter penalties.
• Advocate for Lesser Penalties: We pursue options like home detention or work-release programs to minimize jail time.
• Represent You at MVD Hearings: Let us handle your MVD hearing to protect your license and driving privileges.