Being charged with an aggravated DUI is no joke. This charge is more severe than a typical DUI and carries mandatory prison time if you’re convicted. The sooner you speak with a aggravated DUI lawyer, the sooner they can begin developing a strategy to defend you and give you the best chance at success. At The Stewart Law Group, our Glendale aggravated felony DUI attorneys will handle your case with the care and dedication it deserves, and fight tirelessly to try to secure an acquittal. Contact us right away to set up a free consultation.
What is an Aggravated Felony DUI in Glendale, AZ?
In the state of Arizona, there are certain circumstances that turn what would otherwise be a typical DUI charge into an aggravated felony DUI charge, which carries significantly harsher penalties. It’s important to understand what can lead to this charge. The following circumstances will give rise to an aggravated felony DUI charge in the state of Arizona:
- Driving under the influence while your license is already suspended or revoked. This is a class 4 felony, with a mandatory prison sentence of at least 4 months. You will also be required to pay at least $4,000 in fines, undergo an alcohol and drug assessment and treatment if required, and install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle. Additionally, you will lose your license for up to 3 years.
- Driving under the influence and you have had at least 2 DUIs within the past 7 years. This is a class 4 felony and carries the same penalties as driving under the influence on a suspended or revoked license.
- Transporting a child under the age of 15 while under the influence. This is charged as a class 6 felony, which is considered slightly less serious than a class 4 felony. The penalties depend on the defendant’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) and can range from 1 day in jail (10-day sentence with 9 days suspended) to 2 years in jail (depending on prior DUI convictions). Additionally, there will be a fine of at least $4,600, an ignition interlock device must be installed in the vehicle, an alcohol and drug assessment and treatment must be completed, and the defendant’s driver’s license will be revoked for at least 1 year.
- Driving under the influence while you are required to have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle. This is a class 4 felony and carries the same penalties as the other class 4 felonies listed above.
- Driving the wrong way on the highway while under the influence. This is a class 4 felony and carries the same penalties as the other class 4 felonies listed above.
It doesn’t matter which scenario leads to an aggravated DUI charge – the potential consequences are severe, and a Glendale lawyer specializing in aggravated felony DUI cases should be contacted immediately to discuss the next steps. It’s also important to remember that prior DUIs will increase the penalties you’re facing.
Contact The Stewart Law Group Today
As you can see, an aggravated DUI is not a charge that should be taken lightly; a conviction carries incredibly harsh penalties. If you’ve been charged or have reason to believe you will soon be charged with an aggravated DUI, contact The Stewart Law Group right away. We have experience handling all types of DUI cases, and we understand how stressful this situation can be. Contact us today to set up a free consultation to discuss your legal options.