A DUI in Arizona can result in very serious consequences, including jail time, fines and a loss of your driver's license.  Individuals who are stopped and arrested for suspicion of DUI may be charged with a DUI offense if they are impaired by alcohol, drugs or a combination of both.  Following an arrest, police may request that you provide a sample of your blood or urine which can be tested for both alcohol or drugs.  The mere presence of an illegal drug, such as marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine or heroin in your system can lead to a DUI charge whether or not you were impaired.

​

An individual can be charged with a drug DUI offense in Mesa under the Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-1381

if they drive or are in actual physical control of a vehicle:

• While under the influence of any drug, vapor releasing substance containing a toxic substance, and any combination of alcohol and drugs and they are impaired to the slightest degree, or

• If any illegal substance is found in their body.

Some of the most common drugs that can result in charges for a drug DUI include:

Marijuana

Cocaine

Heroin

Methamphetamines

Peyote

Ecstasy

PENALTIES FOR DUI DRUGS

Although DUI's involving Drugs are generally classified as misdemeanor offenses,

serious consequences can result.  A first time offender

still faces severe penalties.  These include a maximum sentence of six months in jail and up to $2,500 in fines.

 Normally however, the penalties for a first time DUI conviction involve:

• 10 days in jail - court may require only 1 day with drug/alcohol evaluation and completion of recommended substance abuse treatment program

• Fines, fees and costs of approximately $1,750.00

• Revocation of driver's license for one year

• Ignition interlock on car for 12 months after license reinstatement or 6 months if eligible or eliminated if medical or employment eligible

• Probation of up to 5 years

• 8 points assessed against your driving record and a requirement to attend Traffic Survival School

If a person has a prior DUI conviction within the last seven years, the minimum jail time

for an DUI with Drugs rises from 10 days to 90 days.