Arizona is second to none when it comes to stiff penalties for any sort of DUI. We often hear the words “Expect the max” referring to the maximum possible sentence or penalty that can be imposed if a person is found guilty of DUI. These maximum penalties are serious enough to be disruptive in a person’s life, hoping to deter them from getting a DUI again.
So what are the maximum penalties? Here’s a quick breakdown:
First Time DUI
A first time DUI in Arizona is considered a Class 1 Misdemeanor. DUI suspects with a blood alcohol level of at least .08 can receive this charge.
Maximum Jail Time: Six months
Maximum Fine: $2500 + additional fees
Maximum Probation: Three years
Maximum Driver’s License Suspension: One year
Maximum Additional Penalty: Installment of interlock ignition device for one year
Second Time DUI
As with the First Time DUI, this is considered a misdemeanor. Suspects who have a BAC of .08 and have been convicted of DUI before will face this charge.
Maximum Jail Time: Six months
Maximum Fine: $2500 + additional fees
Maximum Probation: Three years
Maximum Driver’s License Suspension: One Year
Maximum Additional Penalty: Installment of interlock ignition device for one year
Extreme DUI
An Extreme DUI is one where the suspect’s BAC is at .15 or above. It’s a Class 1 Misdemeanor. The biggest difference between a DUI and Extreme DUI is that additional fees are much higher and the length of probation goes up.
Maximum Jail Time: Six months
Maximum Fine: $2500 + additional fees
Maximum Probation: Five years
Maximum Driver’s License Suspension: One Year
Maximum Additional Penalty: Installment of interlock ignition device for one year
Felony DUI
A Felony DUI is considered a Class 4 Felony. This is a charge given when someone has 2 other DUI’s within 7 years or when the DUI suspect is driving on a suspended or restricted license.
Maximum Jail Time: Ten years
Maximum Fine: $150,000
Maximum Probation: Ten Years
Maximum Driver’s License Suspension: Three years
Maximum Additional Penalty: Permanent installment of interlock ignition device on vehicle
How can you avoid the maximum penalty? The best thing you can do is contact an attorney with experience in handling DUI cases. Your attorney will be able to work with the prosecutors and the courts to help you get the lowest possible sentence.
Mesa DUI Attorney Charlie Naegle has represented many clients in the past facing DUI charges. His knowledge of the legal system allows him to help his clients see the best possible outcome so they can get back on track as soon as possible.