23 Jul The Consequences of a DUI in Arizona Can Be Severe
According to Maricopa County, driving under the influence is incredibly common. They estimate that around two in three Arizonians will be involved in a DUI incident in their lifetime. That’s why the state of Arizona takes DUIs so seriously, and why the consequences are so severe.
A DUI conviction could mean spending time in jail, losing your license, and having to install a breathylizer. On top of that, there are also heavy fines for a DUI in Arizona. And if your blood alcohol content was over 0.15% or you’ve been convicted of a DUI in the past, the consequences are even more severe.
Here’s how the state of Arizona treats DUIs.
The Consequences of a DUI Conviction
The consequences for DUIs in Arizona can vary, depending on the circumstances of the case. Things like the number of previous convictions or your blood alcohol content at the time of arrest will affect the sentencing process.
If you are convicted of a DUI in Arizona, you could be sentenced to:
- Time in jail or prison
- Pay fines and fees
- Licence suspension or revocation
- Install an interlock device
- Take alcohol or drug screenings
- Enroll in education or treatment programs
Multiple Offenses Mean Longer Incarceration Times
In Arizona, being charged with a DUI stays on your record for 7 years. If you have more than one DUI during that period, sentencing will automatically be harsher. For example, a third offense is a felony with an aggravated classification.
First Offense:
- 10 days in jail
- Minimum fine of $1,250
- License suspension of up to 90 days
Second Offense:
- 90 days in jail
- Minimum fine of $3,000
- Revocation of license for a minimum of 12 months
- Installation of an interlock device at the end of the 12 months
Third Offense:
- 2 years in prison
- Revocation of your license for 12 months
- Installation of an interlock device after the sentence has been completed
A High BAC Also Changes the Consequences of a DUI
Your blood alcohol content affects the consequences as well, regardless of whether it is your first DUI.
BAC between 0.15% and 0.20%
- Minimum of 30 days in jail
- Minimum fine of $2,500
- Installation of an interlock device
BAC over 0.20%
- Minimum of 45 days in jail
- Minimum fine of $2,750
- Installation of an interlock device
If You Are Facing DUI Charges in Arizona, You Need an Attorney
Fighting a DUI isn’t easy, but a good lawyer will work hard to get you the best outcome possible. For some, this can look like community service instead of incarceration. For others, it might be getting their license back sooner or having an interlock device for a shorter amount of time.
But not all lawyers are on your side. Public defenders are often overworked, and large firms might toss your case to an inexperienced new hire. To get the best results, you need a defense lawyer who will fight for your rights.
Here at Todd Coolidge Law Firm we have over 25 years of experience defending our clients against criminal charges. Don’t leave your DUI case to chance—contact us to schedule a consultation today.
Photo by tommao wang on Unsplash used with permission under the creative commons license for commercial use 7/23/25.