In Arizona, the maximum blood alcohol concentration (BAC) that is legally allowed while driving or operating a motor vehicle is 0.08 percent. Any violation of this law is a criminal offense and could result in a driving under the influence (DUI) conviction. The penalties for a DUI conviction will usually be based on the BAC level of the offender. Arizona law lists the qualifications and penalties for a DUI, an Extreme DUI, and a Super Extreme DUI.
What are the qualifications for an Extreme DUI?
Pursuant to §28-1382 of the Arizona Revised Statutes, an Extreme DUI charge requires a BAC of 0.15 percent or above within two hours after driving a motor vehicle. Meanwhile, a BAC of 0.20 percent or above qualifies as a Super Extreme DUI charge in Arizona. To violate the law, the blood alcohol concentration must result from alcohol that has been consumed either before or while actually driving the vehicle.
What are the penalties for a first-time Extreme DUI?
A first-time Extreme DUI violation is considered a Class 1 misdemeanor. It will result in at least 30 consecutive days in jail or a maximum of six months. All offenders are required to pay a minimum fine of $250 plus certain financial penalties. Additionally, the individual will have his or her driving license suspended for 90 days. After 30 days, an individual who meets certain eligibility requirements will be allowed to receive limited driving privileges. Then, at the end of the 90 days, the court might require that an ignition interlock device be placed on the person’s vehicle for at least one year.
What are the penalties for a second- time Extreme DUI?
The penalties for an Extreme DUI are increased for anyone who has a prior DUI conviction within the previous seven years. The minimum jail time, for example, is 120 days. Additionally, the offender is required to pay a minimum fine of $500 plus additional financial penalties. A person convicted of a second-offense Extreme DUI will have his or her driving license suspended for at least one year and will not be eligible to receive any temporary driving privileges. An ignition interlock device will be placed on the person’s vehicle at the end of the one year period.
The penalties for a Super Extreme DUI include at least 45 consecutive days in jail and a minimum fine of $500. Anyone who is convicted of either an Extreme DUI or a Super Extreme DUI might be required to undergo substance abuse counseling.
Please contact our offices if you or someone you know has an Extreme DUI charge in Arizona. To schedule a free consultation with a DUI Attorney, please call our offices 24 hours a day at (602) 307-0808. You can also email us through our secure and confidential email form.