My criminal defense team and I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very merry, and very safe, Christmas holiday weekend. Please make sure that you make good decisions, and when it comes to drinking and driving – don’t do it!
It’s no secret – law enforcement officers know that people are more likely to drink and drive during a long holiday weekend. As a result, it is extremely likely that they will be setting up DUI checkpoints, making DUI arrests, and handing out DUI charges all throughout Arizona. For example, this past Thanksgiving holiday weekend, police officers arrested about 50 people during a DUI task force deployment that took place in southern Arizona. Out of those 50 people, it was also reported that nine of them were arrested for DUI. I’m citing this instance because it is expected that these DUI task force deployments will continue through New Year’s Eve. Therefore, make sure you think twice before getting behind the wheel of a car if you’ve been drinking.
If you are caught driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, there’s a high chance that you could face regular DUI charges, aggravated DUI charges, or extreme DUI charges. In addition, it is also important for you to know what to do if law enforcement officers stop you in your car and suspect a DUI. Here are some key tips:
- Keep your hands where the police can see them.
- You are required to show the following: driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.
- It is permissible for officers to ask you to step out of your car.
- Officers are allowed to separate passengers and drivers for questioning, however no one has to answer any questions.
- Unless you give your consent or the officers have probable cause, the officers cannot search your car.
- If you don’t want officers to search your car, make sure you clearly state that you do not want them to do so.
Make sure you also contact a criminal defense attorney who thoroughly understands AZ DUI law. Trying to enjoy Christmas with a DUI arrest hanging over your head is no fun at all. Don’t let a DUI ruin your holiday. Our team includes a former Arizona prosecutor who has handled numerous DUI cases and can assess your case during a free consultation. Feel free to contact myself, Phoenix criminal defense attorney Jeremy Geigle, on my personal line 24/7 at 480-818-9943.