Facing an Extreme or Super Extreme DUI / DWI charge in Arizona can have lifelong consequences. In fact, comparative reports indicate that the state imposes some of the harshest sentences for Extreme DWI offenses in the entire country.
That’s why grasping the gravity of Arizona DUI penalties is crucial. A DUI conviction in Arizona include hefty fines, extensive periods of incarceration, driver’s license suspension, and mandatory installation of ignition interlock devices. But don’t worry because a good DUI Attorney can help mitigate these DUI or DWI charges.
With his expertise and experience in handling thousands of DUI cases, you can trust Atty. Brian D. Sloan to provide you with a powerful defense to fight DUI charges in Phoenix, AZ.
What is an Extreme DUI in Arizona?
In Arizona, if an individual’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level falls between 0.150 and 0.199 percent at the time of arrest, it is deemed an Extreme DUI. This classification carries significant weight, as it leads to more severe consequences than a Regular DUI offense. Enhanced fines, more jail time, more jail costs, longer Interlock requirement, and additional fees are among the harsher penalties associated with an Extreme DUI.
It is important to note that the repercussions for a First Extreme DUI and a Second Extreme DUI are vastly different, highlighting the significance of distinguishing between these two categories.
What is the Penalty for Extreme DUI in Arizona
Compared to Regular DUI offenses, the penalties for an Extreme DUI offense in Arizona are notably harsher. The Extreme DUI penalties reflect the higher level of impairment exhibited by individuals with a blood alcohol concentration between 0.150 and 0.199 percent.
First Offense Extreme DUI
A First Offense Extreme DUI occurs when an individual is charged for the first time with an Extreme DUI offense in Arizona. Offenders can expect to face a minimum fine of $2,400, as well as other secondary fees and costs, including paying for each day of the incarceration itself. It is possible to suspend a portion of the sentence if the offender agrees to install a certified ignition interlock device in their vehicle, and there are ways to reduce the amount of jail time overall, but anyone charged with a DUI offense should go into the process with the likelihood that they will do some actual jail time.
Furthermore, a driver’s license suspension for at least 90 days is imposed, further potentially restricting the offender’s mobility. To regain their driving privileges, the individual will likely be required to install an Ignition interlock device in their vehicle, ensuring they can only operate the vehicle if sober.
Second Offense Extreme DUI
A second Extreme DUI offense in Arizona, with a previous conviction of a DUI within 84 months, entails harsh penalties and increased consequences. Offenders can expect to face a minimum fine of $3,700 in addition to jail costs and other associated fees.
Moreover, the offender’s driving privileges are revoked for at least one year, limiting their ability to operate a vehicle. To reinstate their driving privileges, the offender must install an ignition interlock device or IID for 12 months. This requires the driver to pass a breathalyzer test before starting the vehicle, as well as randomly while driving, ensuring sobriety behind the wheel.
How Long Do You Go to Jail for an Extreme Dui in Arizona?
The duration of jail time for Extreme DUI offenses in Arizona can vary based on several factors. For a First-Time Extreme DUI offense, offenders can typically expect to serve a mandatory jail sentence of 30 days. However, it’s important to note that some jail time can be suspended if the offender agrees to install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle, and some jail time may be able to be substituted with Home Detention.
On the other hand, for a Second-Time Extreme DUI offense within seven years of a previous DUI conviction, the mandatory jail sentence is significantly longer at 120 days minimum.
What is Super Extreme DUI in Phoenix, AZ?
In Arizona, a Super Extreme DUI offense occurs when an individual is apprehended with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.20 percent or higher. This level of intoxication is at leasst two and a half times the legal limit of 0.08 percent set in Arizona.
The significant disparity between the BAC in a Super Extreme DUI and the Arizona BAC limit emphasizes the extreme nature of the offense and the heightened impairment experienced by the individual. As a result, Super Extreme DUI offenses carry even harsher penalties and fines than Regular DUI or Extreme DUI offenses.
Penalties for Super Extreme DUI
Compared to Extreme DUI offenses, the penalties for Super Extreme DUI offenses in Arizona are even more severe. From higher fines to more days in jail, and extended interlock requirements, the consequences for a Super Extreme DUI are designed to deter individuals from operating a vehicle with a BAC well above the legal limit.
First Offense Super Extreme DUI
A First Offense Super Extreme DUI is the first instance in which an individual is charged with a Super Extreme DUI offense in Arizona. DUI offenders can expect a significant fine of $3,250 and other associated fees and costs. In addition to the hefty fine, offenders must serve a mandatory jail sentence of six months.
Furthermore, due to the Super Extreme DUI conviction, the driving privileges are suspended for at least 90 days. This license suspension further restricts the individual’s ability to legally operate a vehicle during the specified period.
To regain their driving privileges after a suspension, they must install an Ignition interlock device for 18 months. This device acts as a breathalyzer, ensuring the driver is alcohol-free before starting the vehicle, and while continuing the drive the vehicle.
Second Offense Super Extreme DUI
Following any prior DUI conviction within seven years, a Second Super Extreme DUI conviction in Arizona brings forth heightened penalties and consequences. Offenders must pay a substantial fine of $4,600 and other associated fees and costs. In addition to the significant fine, offenders face a mandatory jail sentence of 6 months.
Also, the driving privileges of the offender charged with a DUI are revoked for a minimum of 1 year due to the conviction. To regain their driving privileges following the suspension, the offender must install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle for 24 months. This device is a safeguard by requiring the driver to provide a sober breath sample before the vehicle can be started, as will also require breath samples as the vehicle continues to be driven.
How Many Points is an Extreme DUI in Arizona
An Extreme DUI offense in Arizona carries significant weight regarding points on an individual’s driving record. If convicted of an Extreme DUI, the offender typically accrues eight points on their driving record.
These points reflect the severity of the offense and serve as a measure of the individual’s driving violations. It is important to note that accumulating too many points can lead to additional consequences, such as license suspension or increased insurance premiums.
Is a Super Extreme DUI in AZ a Felony?
A Super Extreme DUI in Arizona is not automatically classified as a Felony DUI. However, it can be charged as a Felony if it is a third offense within seven years or if certain aggravating factors are present, such as causing serious injury or death while driving under the influence.
These circumstances can lead to felony charges, resulting in more severe legal consequences and potentially longer periods of incarceration. Therefore, while a First-Time Super Extreme DUI is generally treated as a Misdemeanor, repeated offenses or aggravating factors can escalate the charges to the Felony level.
Arizona DUI laws are intended to lessen impaired driving and promote public safety. Extreme cases of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs are of particular concern, as they can increase the risk of fatal crashes. The message is clear: drinking and driving should never be taken lightly, and the best way to avoid the harsh consequences of DUI is to refrain from drinking and driving altogether.
Consulting with a DUI Defense Attorney well-versed in Arizona laws is crucial. They provide guidance, assess the case, analyze defenses, and advocate for your rights, potentially reducing penalties or dismissing charges.
Call the Law Offices of Brian D. Sloan at 480-900-0384 or 602-900-0384 for a Free Initial Consultation if you are facing an Extreme or Super Extreme DUI charge in Phoenix, Arizona.
