Extreme DUI FAQs

In Arizona, DUI offenses are taken very seriously due to the strict laws against driving under the influence. Extreme DUI charges, in particular, result in severe penalties. However, the laws on extreme DUIs can be confusing because Arizona has several different ways of classifying these offenses.

The Law Office of James E. Novak is a renowned Phoenix DUI defense firm with extensive experience handling these challenging and high-stakes cases. Attorney James Novak has a decades-long track record of successfully representing clients in DUI cases and is immediately available to discuss your case. Give the Law Office of James Novak a call today to schedule your free consultation.

As a respected Phoenix DUI law firm, in our experience, the best results are obtained when we can work with our clients to develop a compelling defense. Thus, we take the time to ensure our clients fully understand the charges against them, what’s at stake, and what possible defenses may be available. Read on to learn more about extreme DUIs.

In Arizona, an extreme DUI refers to driving under the influence with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.15% or higher, which is nearly twice the legal limit of 0.08%.

The punishment for a first offense extreme DUI includes at least 30 consecutive days in jail, with no eligibility for probation or a suspended sentence, as well as fines that can total over $2,500. Additionally, you must complete an alcohol education or treatment program, may be required to perform community service, and must have an ignition interlock device installed in their vehicle for at least 12 months.

However, if you have a prior DUI conviction, the punishment is even more harsh. For example, you’ll face a minimum of 120 days in jail, with at least 60 days to be served consecutively. The fines also increase to $3,000 and you’ll be required to keep an ignition interlock device on your vehicle for 24 months.

No, in Arizona, extreme DUI and aggravated DUI refer to different offenses. An extreme DUI involves driving with a BAC of 0.15% to 0.199%. On the other hand, an aggravated DUI is a more serious offense and involves the presence of aggravating circumstances. These circumstances include driving with a suspended or revoked license, committing a third DUI offense within a seven-year period, or driving under the influence with a passenger under 15 years old in the vehicle. Aggravated DUI is a felony and carries even harsher penalties than an extreme DUI, including longer prison sentences, higher fines, and extended license revocation periods.

Yes, under Arizona law, a DUI can be classified as both extreme and aggravated. This occurs when your BAC qualifies for an extreme DUI (0.15% or higher) and also meets the criteria for aggravated DUI.

Yes, there is a category of DUI known as "super extreme DUI." Super extreme DUIs involve operating a vehicle with a BAC of 0.20% or higher. For example, a first offense super extreme DUI will result in a minimum of 45 consecutive days in jail without the possibility of probation or a suspended sentence. Additionally, you’ll be required to pay fines in the amount of $2,500. You will also need to attend an alcohol education or treatment program, perform community service, and have an ignition interlock device installed in your vehicle for at least 18 months.

If you are facing charged related to a DUI, extreme DUI, or aggravated DUI, there is a tremendous amount riding on the outcome of your case. At the Law Office of James E. Novak, we understand the stress and anxiety you’re dealing with, and are here to help you through the process. For more than 25 years, we’ve helped guide our clients to favorable outcomes they never thought possible. With our experience, dedication, and intimate knowledge of the Maricopa County DUI procedures, you can trust us to handle your case as though it were our own. To learn more and to schedule a free consultation with our Phoenix criminal defense lawyer today, call 480-413-1499. You can also reach us through our secure online contact form.