Were you arrested for a felony DUI in Tucson, AZ? These charges carry some of the most serious criminal penalties under state law, including prison time and a lasting criminal record. Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys is here to help you fight back and work toward a successful outcome.
Our Tucson felony DUI lawyers have 45 years of combined experience practicing this area of the law. We know how local prosecutors and judges think, and we’ll use that insight to benefit your defense throughout the entire legal process.
Contact our law office today at (520) 510-0439 for more information about your case. During your free consultation, we can advise you on your best course of action and next steps.
How Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys Can Help if You Were Arrested for Felony DUI in Tucson, Arizona
Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys is a highly regarded law firm in Tucson, Arizona, with a reputation that law enforcement and prosecutors can’t ignore.
If you hire one of our Tucson criminal defense lawyers, we can assist by:
- Investigating the traffic stop and arrest
- Reviewing police reports and any applicable test results
- Filing a motion to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence
- Identifying inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case
- Representing you at all court appearances and at trial if necessary
While all DUIs are treated seriously in Arizona, the impact of a felony conviction on your life could be especially severe. If you don’t hire an experienced Tucson DUI lawyer to represent you, you risk being taken advantage of by the state and receiving much harsher penalties than are appropriate.
Felony DUI cases are complex and often involve technical evidence. Our attorneys are well-qualified to help you present the best defense possible. Call today to get started.
What Makes a DUI a Felony in Arizona?
Not every DUI charge in Arizona is a felony. Many first-time offenses are charged as misdemeanors. However, certain circumstances can elevate a DUI to a felony, which is often referred to as an “aggravated DUI” under state law.
A DUI may be charged as a felony if you were allegedly driving:
- While your license was suspended
- With a minor under the age of 15 in the vehicle
- After having multiple prior DUI convictions within a specific time period
Felony DUI charges can also apply if the incident involved driving on the wrong side of the road, as well as if it involved a serious injury. As these allegations are treated much more harshly than standard DUI cases, it is critical to seek legal representation as soon as possible after an arrest.
What Are the Potential Penalties for a Felony DUI Conviction in Tucson?
The penalties for a felony DUI conviction in Arizona are significantly more severe than those for a misdemeanor offense. The exact consequences will depend on the specific type of felony DUI charged and your prior criminal history.
Possible criminal penalties may include:
- Mandatory prison time in state custody
- Substantial fines and fees
- Long-term driver’s license revocation
- Installation of an ignition interlock device after reinstatement
- Intensive probation with strict conditions
- Court-ordered alcohol screening and treatment programs
Felony convictions can also trigger lasting collateral consequences, such as:
- Difficulty obtaining employment and professional licenses
- Loss of certain civil rights
- Increased insurance costs
- Potential immigration consequences for non-citizens
These consequences can stay with you long after you’ve served all of the penalties directly imposed by the court.
What Defenses Can I Raise if I’ve Been Charged With a Felony DUI in Tucson?
Felony DUI cases are unique, and so the most effective defense will depend on the facts and circumstances of your particular situation. However, there are often multiple ways to challenge the prosecution’s case and create reasonable doubt.
Common defenses in Tucson felony DUI cases may include:
- The traffic stop lacked reasonable suspicion.
- Breath and blood test results were improperly handled.
- Field sobriety tests were administered incorrectly.
- Your constitutional rights were violated during the arrest.
- There is insufficient evidence to prove your impairment beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Another factor, such as a medical condition, affected your test results.
In some situations, the defense may also focus on whether the prosecution can prove the specific aggravating factor required to elevate the charge to a felony. If that element cannot be established, the charges could potentially be reduced.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Tucson Felony DUI Lawyers
Being charged with a felony DUI in Tucson, AZ, is a serious matter that should not be taken lightly. Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys has 45 years of combined experience representing individuals accused of serious crimes throughout Arizona and is ready to get to work for you as well.
Contact our Tucson felony DUI attorneys today to schedule a free consultation. We will do everything in our power to help you secure a favorable resolution as the law permits.