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Extreme DUI

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What is an Extreme DUI in Arizona A.R.S. 28-1382

No person shall drive or be in actual physical control of a vehicle in this state if the person is impaired to the slightest degree while under the influence of any of the following circumstances:

  • Blood Alcohol concentration of 0.15 or more but less than 0.20. A person who is convicted of a violation of this section is guilty of driving or being in actual physical control of a vehicle while under the extreme influence of intoxicating liquor. This offense is a class one misdemeanor.

Drunk driving is known by a variety of names such as:

  • driving under the influence (DUI)
  • driving while impaired (DWI)
  • operating under the influence (OUI)
  • operating while impaired (OWI)
  • driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII)
  • driving while under the influence (DWUI)

The mere fact that driving intoxicated or under the influence may be called by different phrases, the consequences of such a conviction can be devastating.  So no matter what you call it, one should seriously consider hiring a competent, experienced lawyer to represent them.

Penalties for an Extreme DUI charge in Arizona A.R.S. 18-1382

  • First Offense (Class 1 Misdemeanor):

    • Minimum 30 consecutive days in jail.
    • Fines and fees.
    • Driver's license suspension for 90 days.
    • Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) for 12 months.
    • Alcohol or drug screening and education/treatment programs.

  • Second Offense within 84 Months (Class 1 Misdemeanor):

    • Minimum 120 days in jail, with 60 days to be served consecutively.
    • Fines and fees.
    • Driver's license revocation for one year.
    • Installation of an IID for 12 months.
    • Alcohol or drug screening and education/treatment programs.

Defenses for an Extreme DUI charge in Arizona

Defending against an extreme DUI charge in Arizona requires a careful examination of the specific circumstances surrounding the arrest. While each case is unique, here are some common defenses that may be employed:

  1. Illegal Stop or Arrest:

    • If law enforcement did not have a valid reason to stop your vehicle or lacked probable cause for the arrest, evidence obtained during the stop may be challenged as inadmissible.

  2. Inaccurate Field Sobriety Tests:

    • Field sobriety tests are subjective, and factors such as weather conditions, physical fitness, and medical conditions can affect the results. Challenging the accuracy and reliability of these tests may be a defense strategy.

  3. Breathalyzer or Blood Test Errors:

    • Errors in the administration of breathalyzer or blood tests can occur. Calibration issues, improper handling of samples, or failure to adhere to testing procedures can lead to inaccuracies that can be challenged in court.

  4. Rising Blood Alcohol Content (BAC):

    • The "rising BAC" defense argues that your blood alcohol content was within legal limits at the time of driving but increased by the time you were tested. This can be due to the body's natural metabolism of alcohol.

  5. No Probable Cause for Aggravation:

    • If the factors leading to aggravated DUI charges, such as a prior conviction or a minor in the vehicle, cannot be proven beyond a reasonable doubt, it may be possible to challenge the aggravating factors.

  6. Medical Conditions:

    • Certain medical conditions or medications can affect a person's ability to perform sobriety tests or may result in a false positive on a breathalyzer test. This can be used as a defense in some cases.

  7. Chain of Custody Issues:

    • If there are questions about the proper handling and documentation of blood samples, it may be possible to challenge the evidence based on chain of custody issues.

It's important to consult with an experienced DUI defense attorney to discuss the specific details of your case and determine the most effective defense strategy based on the circumstances. Legal professionals can assess the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case, and work to protect your rights.

Contact Brian Di Pietro Law, PLLC. Arizona's Most Experienced, Tough Lawyer for DUI/DWI Criminal Charges!

Attorney Brian Di Pietro has successfully represented many clients who had been charged with DUI/DWI. His success is a result of his 38 years of criminal law both as a prosecutor and defense counsel. He is familiar with the case law applicable to the charge of DUI/DWI and is able to use this knowledge combined with his aggressive approach to defending his clients that have resulted in the favorable resolution for his clients. Contact him now at 623-242-2655 for a free confidential case evaluation about your DUI/DWI charges in Arizona.

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Office Location
Brian DiPietro Law, PLLC
 480-753-4427 (fax)
Mon: 09:00am - 05:00pm
Tue: 09:00am - 05:00pm
Wed: 09:00am - 05:00pm
Thu: 09:00am - 05:00pm
Fri: 09:00am - 05:00pm