(480) 833-8613
Undoubtedly, Arizona treats people charged with, and convicted of DUI harsher than any other state in the country. Given the ever growing population and recent legalization of marijuana, police in Phoenix and surrounding cities are constantly on the lookout for drivers who may be impaired by alcohol, marijuana, illegal drugs or prescription medication.

If you are stopped, arrested and charged with a DUI, there are a number of issues which must be addressed immediately. These include:
- Taking necessary steps to protect your driving privileges and avoiding a revocation of your driver's license
- Getting your vehicle out of impound
- Preparing for your first court appearance
Once these immediate concerns are addressed, there are things which must be considered, specifically
1. How will a DUI Charge Affect Your Employment?
Because DUI is considered a criminal charge in Arizona, it can have negative consequences on your employment. For example, a DUI conviction will result in the revocation of a commercial drivers license. Additionally, people with a fingerprint clearance card might receive notice of a restriction which prohibits them from having certain passengers such as school children in any vehicle they operate. Further, medical professionals will be subject to disciplinary proceedings by their licensing board. Finally, individuals who regularly drive for work will be required to have an ignition interlock in the vehicle for anywhere between twelve and eighteen months following a DUI conviction.
2. What Penalties Could Be Imposed Upon Conviction?
Simply put, Arizona treats people charged with DUI very harshly. Even if this is your first offense, you are at risk of paying thousands of dollars in fines, being placed on probation, ordered to complete alcohol education classes and potentially serving up to forty- five days jail. Moreover, your driver's license can be restricted or suspended for between ninety days and one year depending upon whether you agreed to take a blood or breath test after being arrested. If you have been previously charged with a DUI and then are arrested again for driving while impaired, the potential punishment increases dramatically and can include several months in jail or even a prison sentence.
3. How Can an Attorney Assist You After a DUI Arrest?
Perhaps, this is the most important question you should consider after being arrested and charged with DUI in Arizona. The answer is simple. You should consult with an attorney as soon as possible after being charged with DUI. There is no doubt that an experienced DUI defense attorney can offer invaluable assistance in navigating all of the issues associated with a DUI charge and help you achieve the most favorable result possible.
Essentially, a lawyer who regularly practices DUI defense should:
- Take necessary steps to protect your driver's license
- Attend all court hearings with you or on your behalf
- Obtain all discovery from the prosecutor including police reports, blood or breath test results, body camera video, etc.
- Fully investigate all aspects of your case such as the reason police initially stopped you, your performance on any field sobriety tests, the reliability of blood or breath tests and possible violations of your constitutional rights such remaining silent, Miranda warnings and the ability to consult with an attorney.
- Aggressively negotiate a favorable resolution or defend your rights at trial and force the prosecution to prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt.
Call (480) 833-8613 for Immediate Help with Your DUI Case
Undoubtedly, a DUI conviction will result in very severe penalties. If you are charged with DUI in any city within the greater Phoenix area, you should immediately consult with an experienced DUI lawyer for assistance. Attorney Raymond Kimble is a former police officer, DUI and felony prosecutor and has represented thousands of people charged with DUI in Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, Phoenix and other cities throughout Maricopa and Pinal Counties over the last twenty years. Ray Kimble will have a clear understanding of all the circumstances in your case, along with the knowledge, skill and experience to protect your drivers license and achieve the best possible outcome for you.
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