What should I expect when I get a DUI in Arizona?
Getting a DUI in the state of Arizona is a highly stressful situation and can have some lasting consequences both legally and financially. Arizona has some of the harshest DUI penalties in the country, but if you’re prepared for what to expect, you can make the process as smooth and as quick as possible.
What Should I Expect?
There are different degrees of DUIs in Arizona. Depending on if you’re a repeat offender, your BAC (Blood Alcohol Concentration) level at the time of arrest or other variables, you can be charged with:
- Reckless Driving
- Regular DUI (BAC: 0.08%-0.15%)
- Extreme DUI (BAC: 0.15%-0.19%)
- Super-Extreme DUI (0.20% +) or
- Aggravated DUI (https://www.azdot.gov/mvd/driver-services/driver-improvement/dui)
These different degrees of DUI charges carry different penalties, however for a first-time offense regular DUI, you should expect at least:
- Driver’s license suspension (3 months)
- Requirement of DUI Screening
- Requirement of DUI Education (16 hours)
- $1,000+ in fines
- Jail time
- Installation of Ignition Interlock Device
- Requirement of community service
What Do I Do Now?
If you just received a DUI in Arizona, the first thing to do is to get in contact with legal representation. Hiring an attorney that is experienced in Arizona DUI and Criminal Law will help you immensely in your case. Always follow the advice of your counsel.
When you hire an attorney, they will most likely advise you to go to a state-certified agency to receive a DUI Screening. READ: What is a DUI Screening?
The Screening is for both MVD and Court purposes. Even if you are not yet convicted of the DUI charge through the court, you will be required to complete a Screening for the MVD in order to get your driver’s license reinstated. If you are found guilty of the DUI charge in court, you will be required to complete a Screening. Obtaining a Screening for MVD will also allow you to apply for a Restricted Driver’s License, which will allow you to drive to and from work, school, and treatment/counseling during your suspension.
At Alcohol Screening Scottsdale, you are able to get your DUI Screening done FAST! With our online and in-person options, you’ll be able to complete your DUI Screening and get your Restricted Driver’s License as soon as you can. Our online options allow you to complete your Screening in the comfort of your own home from your computer, smartphone or tablet, in as little as 30 minutes!