(602) 307-0808
Call Now, Open 24/7
Call Now, Open 24/7
(602) 307-0808
Call Now, Open 24/7
(602) 307-0808
Call Now, Open 24/7
By DM Cantor’s Criminal Law Practice, a Top-Ranking Criminal Defense firm in Arizona for the last 7 years in a row by Ranking Arizona Magazine! (2020 – 2026)
DM Cantor’s Board Certified Criminal Law Specialists (Left to Right): Partner / Director of Attorney Development, Jason Karpel; Founding Partner, David Michael Cantor; Managing Partner, Christine Whalin
Plus an additional 4,000+ DUI/Vehicular Crime Dismissal and Reduction DUI Case Victories!!
Click Here to See DUI/Vehicular Crime Defense Victories
How do you know who has the best DUI Defense Firm in Arizona? You start by looking at Experience. David Michael Cantor is a former Prosecutor, and a highly skilled DUI Attorney who became a member of the State Bar of Arizona in 1989, and began his Arizona legal practice as an Assistant City Prosecutor and DUI Lawyer for the City of Phoenix.
Considered as the Top Arizona DUI Defense Lawyer, he then founded his own Criminal Defense firm and Arizona DUI team, DM Cantor Criminal Law Practice. David Cantor is an experienced DUI lawyer who knows the Arizona DUI laws inside and out and will vigorously fight the DUI prosecutor on your behalf. So, whether you have a single AZ charge, or multiple DUI charges, contact DM Cantor Criminal Law Practice today!
In addition to Phoenix Area Experience, you next specifically look to the DUI Lawyers Defense Results and Certifications. In addition to David being a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist, his partners (Christine Whalin, and Jason Karpel) are both Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialists.
No other DUI Defense Firm has as many Complete Jury Trial Acquittals as DM Cantor’s Criminal Law Practice . Click on the link below to receive a list of DUI Defense Questions to Ask when Interviewing a DUI Attorney to represent you in your court case.
Click Here for Questions to Ask When Interviewing a DUI Defense Attorney
If you’re an Arizona driver charged with a DUI in Mesa, it’s crucial to hire a DUI attorney who fully understands the penalties and potential jail time you could face in Mesa Jail. The experienced DUI defense team at DM Cantor Criminal Law Practice knows the strict DUI laws and sentencing guidelines in Mesa—whether it’s a first offense or you have prior convictions. Founder David Cantor, a former prosecutor and now a top-rated Mesa DUI attorney, built a team of skilled defense lawyers dedicated to fighting DUI charges.
(A1) DUI – Impaired to the Slightest Degree
Definition: Operating or being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle while impaired to the slightest degree.
(A2) DUI – BAC Between .08 and .149
Definition: Operating or being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle with a BAC of .08 to .149, regardless of actual impairment.
(A3) DUI – Drug Impairment
Definition: Operating or being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs to the slightest degree, regardless of the type or quantity of drug.
First Offense:
Second Offense:
BAC Between .150 and .199
First Offense:
Second Offense:
BAC .20 or Higher
First Offense:
Second Offense:
Aggravated DUI can be charged for:
With Child in Vehicle (Class 6 Felony):
All Other Felony Aggravated DUIs (Class 4 Felony):
Second or Third Felony Aggravated DUI:
At DM Cantor Criminal Law Practice, our team has a long track record of success in Mesa DUI cases, achieving numerous Not Guilty verdicts and case dismissals. With over 30 years of experience, founding attorney David Cantor and his team are highly trained in the most effective DUI defense strategies.
We handle all types of DUI cases in Mesa Municipal Court and apply a wide range of defenses—some based on investigative technique, others requiring advanced scientific knowledge such as Headspace Gas Chromatography and Infrared Mass Spectrometry.
Explore our top 20 DUI defenses to see which may apply to your case.
1. No Reasonable Suspicion to Stop
This issue arises when a police officer conducts a traffic stop without “reasonable suspicion” that a crime has been committed. In Arizona, this can lead to suppression of all subsequent evidence.
2. No Actual Physical Control
If the police cannot demonstrate that the accused was in actual control of the vehicle at the time of contact, this defense may apply—especially if the person was sleeping or not in the driver’s seat.
3. Inability to Establish Time of Driving
In cases involving a single-car accident or a sleeping driver, officers may be unable to establish exactly when the vehicle was driven, which is essential for DUI charges.
4. No Witness to Driving
If no witness can testify to the individual actually driving the vehicle, the prosecution may not be able to meet its burden of proof.
5. Corpus Delicti Defense
Arizona law requires evidence beyond a defendant’s own statements. If no other evidence exists to prove they were the driver or when the driving occurred, this defense can be highly effective.
6. Improperly Administered Field Sobriety Tests
Field sobriety tests must be properly administered. They are unreliable if given to people over 65, those with balance issues, individuals who are significantly overweight, or those wearing certain types of footwear.
7. No Probable Cause for Arrest
An arrest must be based on probable cause. If this legal standard is not met, the entire case may be dismissed.
8. No Miranda Rights Given or Ignored Invocation of Rights
If an officer fails to read Miranda rights or ignores a suspect’s request to remain silent or for an attorney, statements made after the arrest may be inadmissible.
9. Denial of Right to Counsel or No Private Phone Call Provided
Arizona courts have ruled that suspects must be allowed to consult privately with an attorney in a timely manner. Denial of this right may violate due process.
10. Breath Test Flawed Machine
Breath test devices must be properly calibrated and maintained by the Department of Health Services. Any failure in this process can invalidate the results.
11. The “Disconnect Defense” (Breath Test vs. Observations)
A high breath test result that doesn’t match the suspect’s behavior or appearance at the scene can raise doubt about the test’s accuracy.
12. Breath Test Affected by Physical or Dietary Issues
Medical conditions or certain diets (e.g., keto) can affect breath test accuracy. These physiological variables may create false positives.
13. Improper Blood Draw
If a blood sample is taken improperly—whether due to contamination, non-sterile equipment, or incorrect procedure—the results may be suppressed.
14. Improper Blood Storage or Handling of Vial
Once blood is drawn, it must be refrigerated immediately. Improper storage can lead to fermentation or contamination, invalidating the test.
15. Blood Test Flawed Machine
Just like breath test machines, blood testing devices must follow strict calibration and maintenance protocols to ensure valid readings.
16. “Disconnect Defense” Repeated
If a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is extremely high, yet inconsistent with observed sobriety, this disconnect can form the basis for reasonable doubt.
17. Denial of Independent Blood Test
Police must inform DUI suspects of their right to obtain an independent chemical test. Failure to provide this opportunity can violate constitutional rights.
18. Sloppy or Misleading Police Report
Officers sometimes use generic templates or omit key facts. Discrepancies and inaccuracies in these reports can be used to challenge credibility.
19. Additional DUI Drug Defenses
Prescription drug DUI cases require the state to prove impairment. A valid prescription alone is not enough to sustain a conviction.
20. Involuntary Intoxication
If a person unknowingly consumed alcohol or drugs—such as being drugged or given a spiked drink—this defense may be applicable.
Bonus: Officer Changing or Embellishing Their Story
Over time, inconsistencies often emerge in an officer’s testimony. Identifying and highlighting these contradictions can seriously damage the prosecution’s case.
At DM Cantor Criminal Law Practice, our mission is simple: “We help people navigate through the toughest times of their lives.” When we take on your Mesa DUI case, we approach it with three core principles: Hard Work, Exceptional Trial Skills, and most importantly, High-Touch Client Service.
For Misdemeanor DUI cases, we can typically appear in Mesa City Court on your behalf—so you don’t have to miss work or school. If you’re facing a Felony Aggravated DUI, you’ll need to appear with us in Maricopa County Superior Court—unless the judge grants an exception (often available for out-of-state clients) after we file a motion and you acknowledge the next court date in writing.
We understand how stressful a DUI charge can be. That’s why we focus on providing clear guidance and peace of mind. As we like to say: “You pay us to get the ulcers.”
Contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced and affordable Mesa DUI lawyer.
Below, you’ll find detailed information to answer nearly all your questions about how your Misdemeanor or Felony DUI case will progress in Mesa.
Click here for Misdemeanor DUI Case Progression Information
Click here for Felony Aggravated DUI Case Progression Information
Can I refuse a blood or breath test in Mesa?
Under Arizona’s Implied Consent Law, any driver—whether a resident or not—automatically consents to a blood, breath, or urine test if an officer has probable cause to suspect DUI. Refusal can lead to a search warrant, and officers may use a restraint chair to obtain a sample. Refusing may also trigger a one-year driver’s license suspension.
Will an Arizona suspension affect my license in another state?
Yes. Arizona reports suspensions through the Interstate Compact, meaning your home state will likely suspend your license until you obtain a Clearance Letter from the Arizona MVD.
What is an Ignition Interlock Device, and when is it required?
After a DUI conviction or administrative suspension, you may need to install a Certified Ignition Interlock Device (IID). You’ll need to blow into it to start your car and at intervals while driving. Missed or failed tests can lead to revocation of your driving privileges.
What if I don’t live in Arizona but get a DUI in Mesa?
Ignoring the DUI charge won’t make it go away. A warrant may be issued, and your home state can suspend your license. You’ll need a Mesa DUI attorney to handle your case, even if you’re out of state.
How could a DUI impact my professional license or job?
Many professions—such as healthcare, aviation, real estate, and education—require disclosure of DUI convictions to their licensing boards. At DM Cantor Criminal Law Practice, we represent clients before various professional boards and help protect their careers.
How long will a DUI stay on my record in Arizona?
Can I get a DUI conviction expunged in Arizona?
Arizona doesn’t offer true expungement for DUIs. However, you may request to have the Judgment of Guilt Set Aside, which many employers view as similar to a dismissal. A DM Cantor Criminal Law Practice attorney can help guide you through this process and how to disclose it on applications.
Due to the increase in DUI fatalities and Mesa DUI cases which were taking place during the holidays in 1990, the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety decided to create what is known as the Holiday DUI Task Force. During certain holidays, or large annual events (such as the Phoenix Open), teams of DUI Officers from all over the Valley will saturate specific areas, and will conduct Holiday DUI Checkpoints. For example, the East Valley DUI Task Force will focus on Scottsdale, Tempe, and Mesa, heavily during the holidays, plus when the Barrett Jackson Auto Auction and Phoenix Open are taking place.
The West Valley DUI Task Force focuses over by the Cardinal Stadium during the Christmas Holidays. These times are when the bulk of DUI arrests occur throughout Arizona. In order to read some Mesa DUI Lawyer information regarding what you should or should not do if you are stopped during the DUI Task Force, Client the link below.
If you’ve been charged with a DUI in Mesa, contact us for a free consultation and case evaluation with one of our experienced DUI attorneys. Call our 24-hour DUI hotline at 602-307-0808, or schedule your free consultation. Our dedicated Mesa DUI defense lawyers are ready to fight for you—aggressively, effectively, and with your best outcome in mind.
Fill out the form below to receive a free and confidential initial consultation.