Extreme DUI Defense Attorneys in Flagstaff, Arizona

In Arizona, all drivers are subject to strict laws regarding driving under the influence (DUI), but not all DUI charges are the same. The state categorizes DUI charges into three types: regular, extreme, and super extreme.

If you've been arrested with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .15% or higher, you'll face "extreme" DUI charges. While still misdemeanors, extreme DUI charges often lead to significant penalties that can affect your life long-term. That's where a DUI defense lawyer comes in.

The team of skilled and dedicated attorneys at The 928 Law Firm understands that facing extreme DUI charges can be overwhelming. But you don't have to go through it alone. With over 30 years of combined experience, the attorneys at The 928 Law Firm aim to handle every case with empathy and compassion to help you pursue the best possible outcome for your case.

Located in Flagstaff, Arizona, The 928 Law Firm serves clients throughout Coconino County, Yavapai County, Mohave County, and Maricopa County, including Flagstaff, Sedona, Grand Canyon Junction, Tuba City, Kingman, Prescott, and beyond. Reach out today to set up an appointment.

What Constitutes an Extreme DUI in Arizona?

In Arizona, a driver will be charged with a standard DUI if their blood alcohol concentration is at .08% or higher. While .08% is the legal limit for driving while intoxicated, the state acknowledges different levels of DUI charges depending on the degree of impairment.

Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-1382(A)(1), an extreme DUI is defined as operating a vehicle with a BAC higher than .15% but lower than .20%.

To establish this level of impairment, law enforcement and legal prosecution must prove that the individual's BAC was at or above .15% within two hours of operating a vehicle. If the driver's BAC reaches .20% or above, they can be charged with a super extreme DUI.

Consequences of Extreme DUI in Arizona

Being charged with an extreme DUI in Arizona often leads to serious ramifications, including mandatory jail time. However, the severity of the consequences depends on whether this is your first or subsequent DUI offense. The penalties for a first offense typically include:

• Up to six months of incarceration, with a minimum mandatory sentence of 30 days

• A driver’s license suspension for 90 days

• Court fines and fees starting at $2,500

• Mandatory substance abuse counseling

• Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for a minimum of 12 months

If you've been charged with at least one prior extreme DUI within the last seven years, the penalties for subsequent offenses are more severe. These typically include:

• A minimum mandatory jail sentence of 60 days 

• A minimum of $3,000 in court fines and fees

• Driver’s license suspension for one year

• Mandatory drug and alcohol screening in addition to the installation of an ignition interlock device 

Whether you're facing a first-time or subsequent offense, the long-term impacts of a DUI conviction can have significant implications for your life, including disrupting personal relationships and affecting job opportunities.

An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you better understand the penalties of a DUI charge and work with you to build a strong defense for your case.

Defense Strategies for Extreme DUI Charges

When preparing a defense against extreme DUI charges, it's important to remember that being charged with an extreme DUI does not equal a conviction. It is the prosecution's responsibility to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you were operating the vehicle and that your BAC was at or over the required level to be classified as an extreme DUI.

The qualified team of attorneys at The 928 Law Firm can help you craft a strong defense to potentially challenge or overturn the charges against you. Some possible defense strategies include:

• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop: Law enforcement must have a valid reason for pulling you over. If they do not, any evidence gathered during the stop may be inadmissible.
  

• Examining the accuracy of field sobriety tests and BAC results: Breathalyzer and blood tests are often used to determine an individual's BAC, but these tests are not always accurate, especially if they were administered incorrectly or the instruments were not calibrated properly. An experienced attorney can question the reliability of these results.
  

• Investigating potential violations of your rights: In some cases, law enforcement may have violated your constitutional rights during the arrest or investigation process. If this is found to be true, it could lead to the evidence being dismissed or the charges being dropped.

Using these defense strategies can help you work toward minimizing the potential penalties or securing a reduction in the charges. The dedicated team at The 928 Law Firm has the experience and knowledge to help you build a strong defense and explore all the options available.

How The 928 Law Firm Can Help

Being charged with an extreme DUI in Arizona is a serious matter, but you don't have to face it alone. The skilled attorneys at The 928 Law Firm are dedicated to providing quality legal representation and personalized attention for every case.

With a detailed understanding of Arizona criminal defense and DUI laws, their team will strive to work with you to build a strong defense strategy tailored to your unique needs.

Contact The 928 Law Firm today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards protecting your rights and future. Their team will strive to fight on your behalf to help you contest the charges against you.