by Zayed Al-Sayyed

Arizona DUI AttorneyJune 20, 20220 comments

What Is the Penalty For a First-Time DUI in Arizona?

Being arrested for a DUI in Arizona can lead to a tremendous amount of regret, guilt, and fear. If you or a loved one have recently been arrested for a DUI and are wondering what the consequences might be, we are here to provide the answers.

As experienced criminal defense attorneys, we understand that your journey through the criminal justice system can become overwhelming and stressful. With our team by your side, we will ensure that you have the best possible shot at a positive outcome in your case. So, what is the penalty for a first-time DUI in Arizona? Let’s dive in.

How Does Arizona DUI Law Work?

A DUI refers to an individual driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Arizona imposes the legal limit of .08 percent blood-alcohol content, and driving with a blood-alcohol content that exceeds such is grounds for an arrest.

Because DUI charges also cover drugs, driving with any trace of an illegal drug in your system is also grounds for a DUI arrest. While traditional DUI charges are the least serious, Arizona also imposes extreme DUI charges and aggravated DUI charges depending on the circumstances. What is the penalty for a first-time DUI in Arizona? Well, it depends on which charge you are convicted of.

Traditional DUI Penalties in Arizona

If your blood-alcohol content exceeds .08 percent, then you will immediately lose your driving privileges in Arizona. A first-time traditional DUI is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Arizona. It is punishable by:

• No less than 10 consecutive days in jail;
• A fine of no less than $1,250;
• Mandatory alcohol screening, education, and treatment; and

Mandatory installation of a certified ignition interlock device on any vehicle you operate.

Extreme DUI Penalties in Arizona

Extreme DUI charges apply to drivers whose blood-alcohol content is .15 percent or higher. A first-offense extreme DUI charge is punishable by:

• No less than 30 consecutive days in jail (with no opportunity for probation or a suspended sentence)
• A fine of no less than $2,500;
• Mandatory alcohol screening, education, and treatment; and
• Mandatory installation of a certified ignition interlock device on any vehicle you operate.

Aggravated DUI Penalties in Arizona

The most severe DUI charge in Arizona is known as an aggravated DUI. An example of an Aggravated DUI is if a person is driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs with a minor (under 15 years of age) in the car.

Aside from automatically suspending one’s license for 90 days, being convicted of an aggravated DUI comes with criminal punishments:

• Mandatory Prison;
• Mandatory alcohol screening, education, and treatment; and
• Mandatory installation of a certified ignition interlock device on any vehicle you operate.

Top-Rated Criminal Defenders in Phoenix, AZ

If you or a loved one has been convicted of a first-time DUI in Arizona, the attorneys here at The Law Office of Zayed Al-Sayyed can help. Our team brings the level of experience, aggressiveness, and knowledge of state and local law necessary for you to successfully win your case. Give us a call or contact our team for a free consultation.