Arizona Drunk Driving Law 2013

Effective January 1, 2013, changes were made to Arizona's drunk driving law. The right to a jury trial was eliminated for first-time offenders convicted of driving with a .08 percent or higher blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Those charged with a first offense now have their cases handled by a judge who will determine whether or not a jury trial will be pursued. The new law also made changes to the amount of time a convicted person serves in jail; instead of 24 hours, the law reads "a day," which means that an overnight stay in jail at the time of arrest may fulfill one's jail time. Repeat offenders or those facing aggravated DUI charges are not affected by the new law in regards to a jury trial.

First-time offenders are also required to have an ignition interlock device (IID) installed and used in their vehicles for a year after having their license reinstated. They must first qualify for a Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Driver's License, usually allowed after a 90-day license suspension. In order to qualify for the license, a driver must also complete an alcohol education or treatment program and obtain high-risk SR-22 insurance. Drivers must have the IID installed and maintained at their own expense, which can cost $50 to $200 for the installation and up to $100 per month in maintenance fees. Under the new law, a driver who illegally tries to drive drunk with an IID two times during their IID period will get an additional six months added to the IID requirement.

DUI Defense in Casa Grande, Arizona

Being convicted of a DUI results in many penalties and disruptions to one's life. It also results in a permanent criminal record. Many people believe that their DUI cannot be challenged. This is a misconception. With the help of a skilled attorney, you may be able to contest DUI charges. At Sutton Law, P.C., based in Casa Grande, you can get the legal assistance you need from Attorney Terry Sutton, who offers flat rate DUI representation and a free case evaluation.

Attorney Sutton is a former prosecutor who is well-versed in the laws and procedures pertaining to DUI as well as other criminal charges, such as theft crimes. His firm offers legal assistance in both English and Spanish to clients in and around the Casa Grande area. To get the guidance and advice you need concerning your arrest and charges, contact his firm immediately after your arrest.