Content provided by The Law Office of Brian Sloan, AZ DUI Lawyer
Arizona is one of the toughest states in the country when it comes to DUI laws. As time goes on, more and more states are developing harsh DUI penalties to deter drinking and driving. There’s no such thing as getting off easy, even if you are a first-time offender. The truth is, even a misdemeanor DUI conviction will have a drastic impact on your daily life.
- Mandatory jail time
- Bail costs
- Court fees
- Fines
- License suspension
- Ignition interlock device
- How is DUI determined?
The legal threshold for a DUI charge in most states is a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent. Anyone driving with a BAC at or above that level could be arrested and charged with DUI. Having a higher blood alcohol content could even lead to more severe consequences, such as extreme DUI, super extreme DUI or aggravated DUI (a felony).Intoxalock DUI attorney
When it comes to determining the true cost of a DUI, it’s important to look at more than the financial impact. Yes, the financial strain can be quite significant when you consider the fines, attorney fees, and the cost of placing an ignition interlock device.
There’s also the financial impact of missing work due to mandatory jail time, court dates and meetings with your DUI attorney.
While these costs are significant, the cost to your personal, family life, career and reputation are also significant. In most states, DUI arrests are part of the public domain and anyone can see that you’ve been arrested.
Bail: If you need to pay bail as a condition of your release, it can range anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars. It’s up to the judge to set the bail amount. The judge may choose to release you without bail on the condition that you appear at a scheduled court date.
Legal fees: Securing the legal guidance of a skilled attorney is highly recommended. Depending on the circumstances of your case, legal fees could range from $500 to a few thousand.
DUI fines: Fines will vary by state, but in those states with harsh penalties, expect to pay around $1,500. Repeat offenders can expect to pay much higher fines.
Ignition interlock device: In many states, even first-time DUI offenders are required to install an ignition interlock device. You’ll be responsible for paying for regular maintenance of the device, installation and removal and a monthly lease fee.
Avoiding or lessening the costs of a first-time DUI
Of course, the best way to avoid the costs associated with a first-time DUI is to always have a designated driver or to take a cab or ride-share service.
If you are arrested and charged with DUI, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible. There are many types of defense attorneys out there and many handle all types of defense, from trespassing to white collar crime and DUI.
You should always look for an attorney who handles DUI and related offenses exclusively. This will provide you with confidence in knowing that the lawyer you choose to work with spends all of his or her time defending suspects charged with driving under the influence.
This person will understand DUI laws thoroughly and know what type of defense will provide you with the most effective representation possible
The cost of a first-time DUI can be severe but with effective legal representation, your lawyer will fight to have your charges reduced or dismissed and help to lessen the blow. If you are arrested, remember to exercise your right to remain silent and speak with your attorney before making a statement or agreeing to a plea bargain.