DUI Arrest in Arizona

In Arizona, you can get a DUI without even driving a vehicle. By law, you are prohibited from being in “physical control” of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs with a BAC of .08% or higher. The aim of this law is to prevent drunk driving before it happens.

Several factors will come into play when determining whether you were in physical control of a vehicle, such as:

• Were the keys in the ignition?
• Was the vehicle running?
• Was the driver sleeping?
• Were the headlights on?
• Was the vehicle stopped illegally?

DUI is considered a serious offense in Arizona Law and might lead to license suspension or putting up your vehicle with a certified ignition interlock device. The penalties could be more severe if you are dealing with a third DUI offense. To protect your rights against the charges, it is best to consult with an experienced DUI defense attorney.

Arizona DUI Arrest Process

When an Arizona driver is pulled over for a suspected DUI, one of the first things the police officer will do is look for signs of intoxication, such as:

• Slurred speech
• Watery, bloodshot eyes
• Slow verbal responses to questions
• Odor of alcohol

The DUI offender will be undergone a series of tests, including a urine test to confirm the blood alcohol content. If you are facing DUI charges in Phoenix, it is always in your best interest to at least speak with an experienced DUI lawyer in regards to your options before speaking with prosecutors or making a plea deal. Contacting a Phoenix DUI Attorney right away will help give you the best possible chance of a favorable outcome.

If you think there was a possibility that your rights were violated in the process of your DUI arrest, or even if you just need someone to give you an honest assessment of your case and what you can expect from your charges, give us a call — we’re here to help. We have experience dealing with DUI arrests in Maricopa County, Phoenix, Arizona, and are well-known for establishing a trustworthy attorney-client relationship.

If the officer sees any of these signs, he or she may ask if you’ve been drinking and request that you step out of the vehicle. Then you will be undergone alcohol screening and drug screening tests.

The officer may ask you to complete a field sobriety test or a preliminary breathalyzer test, also known as PBT, to determine your BAC. The results of the PBT test can’t be used in court, but the officer can use it as grounds for arrest. You only need to perform one sobriety test to avoid license suspension in Arizona.

It’s recommended that you refuse the field sobriety test because even sober drivers have trouble completing this test. If you refuse both a field sobriety test and a PBT, the officer will arrest you and take you into custody.

It’s important to note that the arrest is not a conviction.

Once you arrive at the precinct or mobile BAC station, the officer will start asking questions. You may choose to remain silent or ask for your attorney. It’s recommended that you avoid giving any information that you are not required to give. The only thing you are obligated to provide is your driver’s license, insurance, and registration.

The next step will likely be a blood or breathalyzer test. Unlike the PBT, the results can be used as evidence in court. Refusing both of these tests will result in an automatic one-year license suspension, even if you are not convicted.

Once the test is complete, you will likely be released, and you may call a cab or a sober friend to pick you up. You may be booked into jail if certain circumstances apply, such as having an outstanding warrant or aggravated conduct against an officer. However, most drivers who are arrested for a simple DUI case will not spend any time in jail.

If you are taken to jail, you will be:

• Searched
• Fingerprinted
• Photographed
• Asked questions
• Put into a cell

Friends and family may contact the jail for information on your arrest, including bail information and where you are being held.

Should I Hire A Lawyer For A DUI Arrest?

If you have been arrested for a DUI, it is crucial to hire an attorney as soon as possible. A conviction can have serious consequences that can affect your ability to drive, your job, your family, and your freedom.

A lawyer will help you understand your rights and help achieve the best possible outcome for your case.

PHOENIX CRIMINAL & DUI ATTORNEY NEAR YOU

Future First Criminal Law is a top-rated Phoenix law firm with a practice dedicated to DUI and Criminal Defense. We represent clients all throughout the Phoenix area.

If you are facing a DUI arrest or any other criminal charges, including intoxicating liquor or drugs or any criminal penalties, you need an attorney who will fight for your rights.

It’s understandable that you want to get this behind you, but don’t make the mistake of defending yourself or even pleading guilty to the charges. A DUI conviction will have long-lasting consequences more than just a suspended license, and you need to be aware of what they will be before making any decisions. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and to discuss your case.