I would like to take a moment to wish everyone a happy and safe New Year’s Eve. Since 2012 is almost here, I encourage everyone to make good decisions when it comes to drinking and driving. While many of us will be out celebrating this holiday weekend, keep in mind that law enforcement officers will be on high alert while working hard to protect drivers throughout the Valley. As such, expect to be subject to DUI checkpoints if you plan on getting behind the wheel this New Year’s Eve. It is no secret that law enforcement officers become much more aware of drinking and driving during the holiday season. Arizona has little tolerance for those who get behind the wheel of a car after they’ve been drinking or doing drugs. If you are impaired, even to the lightest degree (minimum BAC of .08 or more), it’s likely that you will be pulled over and arrested for a DUI.
Zero tolerance for driving under the influence means that people can expect to face serious penalties if convicted. Depending on the seriousness of your DUI charge, you could lose your driver’s license and face steep fines or jail time. In addition, here are some of the consequences you could face if you are found guilty of DUI:
- First time DUI offenders can be charged with a misdemeanor, and can face from one day to six months in jail, $250 to $2,500 in fines, and/or five years of probation.
- Second time DUI offenders can have their license revoked for up to a year, 30-90 days in prison, and/or $500 to $2,500 in fines.
- Repeat offenders facing their fourth DUI offense will automatically face felony DUI charges.
Because drunk driving and drugged driving in Arizona are very serious criminal offenses, it’s best to avoid driving all together if you’re intoxicated. Don’t gamble with your future; it would be devastating to start off the New Year with a DUI conviction. At JacksonWhite, we believe that everyone deserves a fresh start in 2012. Our team includes a former Arizona prosecutor who has experience dealing with DUI charges in Maricopa County. For more information, or to schedule a free consultation with myself, DUI attorney, Jeremy Geigle, call (480)-818-9943. Consultations can be held at our various locations throughout the East Valley, including Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale and Tempe.