Though many of us tend to think of DUI charges as strictly alcohol-related, the truth is, you can also receive a DUI for operating a motor vehicle while impaired by drugs. These are very serious charges, which is why you need to read on and reach out to our experienced Arizona DUI attorney to learn more about how our firm can help you through the legal process going forward. Here are some of the questions you may have:

Will I go to jail for a first-offense drug DUI in Arizona?

Do not think that you will receive a “slap on the wrist” because this is simply your first offense. Arizona courts fiercely pursue all those charged with drug DUIs in the state, and you may face the following penalties as a result:

• Up to 10 days of incarceration
• Anywhere from 90 days-1 year of a suspended license
• A $500 Prison Construction Fee
• A $500 Department of Public Safety Fee
• Mandatory Drug Screening and Counseling
• A $250 fine and surcharges

What happens if I am charged with a second drug DUI in Arizona?

A second drug DUI comes with even heavier penalties, and you will face an even harsher courtroom this time around. For a second or subsequent Arizona DUI charge, you may face the following:

• License revocation of 1 year
• Up to 90 days in jail
• A mandatory 30 hours of community service
• A $500 fine plus surcharges
• $1250 Department of Public Safety Fee
• $1,250 Prison Construction Fee

Are there any defenses against a drug DUI?

Fortunately, though the defense your attorney chooses will depend specifically on your case, there are certain general defenses skilled attorneys can argue that may have your charges mitigated, or, in some cases, totally dropped. Some potential defenses against DUI charges are as follows:

• Law enforcement did not honestly or properly administer field sobriety tests before making an arrest
• The officer acted in violation of your constitutional rights
• Law enforcement arrested you while you were either not driving or were not in control of the car at the time of your arrest
• Law enforcement did not have reasonable suspicion to search your car
• The officer did not have probable cause for arrest
• Law enforcement improperly conducted breathalyzer tests, or failed to administer and analyze urine or blood samples

Contact our experienced Arizona firm

The legal team at Weintraub & Weintraub has years of experience representing clients who have been injured in accidents due to the negligence of others as well as those who are facing charges of driving under the influence. Those injured due to another party’s negligence should never have to suffer alone. If you need strong legal representation, please do not hesitate to contact our firm today.