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Facing a Third DUI in Arizona? Know the Shift from Misdemeanor to Felony
While most first and second DUI offenses in Arizona are classified as misdemeanors, a third DUI offense within a seven-year period is designated as an “Aggravated DUI,” elevating it to a class 4 felony. This elevation is not just a nominal change; it brings about substantial shifts in legal repercussions.
A conviction for a third DUI automatically translates into a felony charge, regardless of whether it involved injuries or property damage. Additionally, if at least one of the prior DUI offenses is an aggravated DUI, the Arizona Motor Vehicle Department (MVD) has the authority to revoke the offender’s driving license for up to three years. This potential for prior felony convictions to intensify sentencing outcomes highlights the critical need to seek guidance from experienced DUI defense lawyers who can navigate the complexities of these heightened charges.
Arizona Third Offense DUI Laws
In Arizona, operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly illegal. By holding a driver’s license in the state, you automatically consent to submit to field sobriety tests and blood alcohol content (BAC) testing if you’re suspected of DUI. Facing a third or subsequent DUI offense escalates the situation significantly, invoking felony-level fines and stringent penalties, including compulsory incarceration. This underscores the gravity of DUI charges and the importance of understanding the legal obligations and potential consequences tied to your driver’s license in Arizona.
Protect Your Rights | Secure Your Future
Why You Need to Hire an Experienced DUI Lawyer
Repeated DUI offenses are viewed unfavorably, and Arizona follows suit. DUIs in the state are divided into regular DUIs (BAC of .08% or higher) and “Extreme DUIs” (BAC of .15% or higher), with second offenses incurring more severe penalties.
In Arizona, intoxication penalties escalate with each subsequent offense, determined by a seven-year lookback period. Understanding the impact of multiple DUI convictions is crucial. Future First Criminal Law’s dedicated team is here to level the playing field, protect your reputation, and navigate your legal situation professionally. Contact us for a fair fighting chance and positive outcomes.
Trust Future First Criminal Law for unparalleled expertise and success in DUI defense. Our team has safeguarded countless clients, their families, reputations, and futures. Pursue justice and favorable results by connecting with our experienced DUI lawyers who will navigate your legal situation with professionalism and dedication. We can help you with your 3rd DUI in Arizona.
Standard DUI
(BAC higher than .08%)
3rd Offense
- Prison Time Days: 120+
- Home Detention Days: Not Available
- Supervised Probation: 5+ Years
- License Revocation: 3 Years
- Penalties and Fines: $5,000+
- Ignition Interlock Device: 2 Years
- Points on License: 8
- Alcohol Screening and Counseling
- Traffic Survival School
- SR22 Insurance
Extreme DUI
(BAC higher than .15%)
3rd Offense
- Prison Time Days: 120+
- Home Detention Days: Not Available
- Supervised Probation: 5+ Years
- License Revocation: 3 Years
- Penalties and Fines: $5,000+
- Ignition Interlock Device: 2 Years
- 8 Points on License
- Alcohol Screening and Counseling
- Traffic Survival School
- SR22 Insurance
Super Extreme DUI
(BAC higher than .20%)
3rd Offense
- Prison Time Days: 120+
- Home Detention Days: Not Available
- Supervised Probation: 5+ Years
- License Revocation: 3 Years
- Penalties and Fines: $5,000+
- Ignition Interlock Device: 2 Years
- Points on License: 8
- Alcohol Screening and Counseling
- Traffic Survival School
- SR22 Insurance
Aggravated DUI Felony
(Class 4 & Class 6 Felony)
Penalties – Same as Super Extreme
Class 4 Felony
- Driving on a Invalid License (Suspended, Revoked, Cancelled)
- Driving Without Ignition Interlock When Required
- Two+ DUI Convictions Within the Past Seven Years
- Driving the Wrong Way
Class 6 Felony
- Driving with a Minor 15 Years Old or Younger in the Vehicle
Ready To Hire An Arizona DUI Defense Lawyer? We Got You!
While facing a DUI charge in Arizona may initially seem straightforward, the complexities of the Arizona DUI law mean there are many layers to the charge and the subsequent penalties. The Arizona DUI law makes it evident an experienced lawyer can greatly simplify navigating these layers. If you have been charged with a DUI in Arizona, the stiff penalties you face can cause significant disruption to your life. You need an experienced Phoenix DUI Defense Lawyer to review your case and guide you in deciding your next steps. The DUI lawyers at Future First Criminal Law will work diligently to secure the best possible outcome for your case. Contact us today for a free phone consultation.
For more comprehensive information, please visit the Arizona Governor’s Office of Highway Safety website, which provides detailed insights into Arizona DUI laws and regulations.
What You Need To Know About Your 3rd DUI in Arizona
If you’re convicted of your third DUI in Arizona within seven years of your first, expect heightened penalties. Rely on Future First Criminal Law’s experienced DUI Lawyers to grasp the implications, protect your reputation, and navigate your legal situation adeptly. Contact us now for positive outcomes and a fighting chance. Our top-rated Arizona lawyers are committed to DUI Law, ensuring professional defense for clients throughout the Phoenix Metro area. Don’t risk self-representation or hastily pleading guilty—understand the enduring consequences of a DUI conviction. Schedule a free phone consultation with our legal team and discuss the specifics of your case.
Reinstatement of Driving Privileges After a 3rd DUI in Arizona
After a DUI-related license revocation, there is no predetermined mandatory reinstatement date. Instead, you must serve a minimum of one year of your sentence before petitioning the court for license reinstatement. The court will stipulate various sentence requirements that must be fulfilled before reinstatement, which may include installing an interlock device on your vehicle for a minimum of two years, starting from the date of reinstatement.
You must also complete an investigation packet that includes:
- A revocation certificate that documents whether you are employed, have had any traffic violations in the past 12 months, and if you are currently attending or have proof of completion of court-ordered alcohol education courses and/or treatment.
- A compliance statement from the court noting that you have completed all court-ordered steps for treatment.
- A recommendation from a health professional that has reviewed both your revocation certificate and your compliance statement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a DUI a felony in Arizona?
In Arizona, an Aggravated DUI can lead to felony DUI charges. This occurs if there was a minor present in the vehicle, if the driver had a suspended license, or if they have had two or more previous DUI convictions. Therefore, a third DUI conviction will always result in felony charges.
What is the penalty for a 3rd DUI in Arizona?
The penalty for a third DUI in Arizona will vary depending on the specifics of your arrest. However, it is important to note that third DUI convictions are always classified as felonies, carrying severe penalties such as jail time, fines and fees, license suspension, and the mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device. Nonetheless, experienced criminal defense lawyers at Future First Criminal Law possess the knowledge and expertise to explore potential avenues for avoiding subsequent DUI convictions, regardless of prior cases.
Does a 3rd DUI ruin your life?
No, a DUI does not have to ruin your life, even if it is your third offense. An experienced DUI lawyer from Future First Criminal Law can skillfully defend your case and strive to have your charges reduced or dismissed entirely. With their accomplished legal representation, you can swiftly begin moving forward after your third DUI arrest and potentially avoid a felony conviction.
Top-Rated Legal Team Dedicated to DUI and Criminal Law
Positively Impacting Lives Through Effective Legal Advocacy - One Case At A Time!
At Future First Criminal Law, we believe everyone deserves a second chance. That’s why we provide strong, strategic DUI and criminal defense representation, setting ourselves apart as a trusted choice in the Phoenix area.
Our approach is simple but impactful: by focusing on a select number of clients, we ensure each case receives the personalized attention it deserves. We take the time to understand the unique details of your situation, because no two cases are the same.
We know what’s at stake. Our dedicated team works tirelessly to craft tailored defense strategies that protect your rights and safeguard your future. From leveling the playing field in the courtroom to guiding you through every step of the legal process, our goal is clear: to help you avoid incarceration and move forward with confidence.
At Future First Criminal Law, we’re more than your legal advocates—we’re your partners in navigating the complexities of the justice system, empowering you to achieve the best possible outcome.
