Driving under the influence in Tucson, Arizona, can result in severe criminal penalties. A 2nd time DUI conviction can result in serious penalties and consequences that stay with you far into the future. If you are arrested for drunk driving, you need an aggressive DUI defense lawyer to fight the charges.
Our lawyers at Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys have over 45 years of combined experience. We provide the straightforward legal advice and representation you need as you navigate DUI charges. Picking up the pieces after a DUI arrest can be challenging, but it is easier with the help of an experienced defense attorney.
Contact us today at (520) 510-0439 to schedule a free consultation with our Tucson 2nd-time DUI lawyers.
How Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys Help You With DUI Charges in Arizona
At Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys, we understand your concerns about DUI charges. We know you are worried about your driver’s license being suspended, going to jail, and paying fines. Our skilled DUI lawyers in Tucson, AZ, challenge suspensions and fight impaired driving charges to keep you out of jail and on the road.
When you hire our top-rated Tucson DUI attorneys, our legal team will:
- Investigate the DUI stop and arrest to determine if officers violated your rights
- Explain the DUI laws for your case and how your criminal history impacts your case
- Analyze the evidence the officers collected to identify challenges to forensic evidence and field sobriety tests
- Work with expert witnesses as necessary to gather evidence supporting your defense
- Negotiate plea deals that avoid the harshest punishments if that is in your best interest
- Fiercely advocate for your rights in court and take your case to trial if needed
Schedule your free case evaluation today. We’ll work hard to have your charges dismissed if at all possible.
What Are the Penalties for a 2nd Time DUI in Tucson, AZ?
The punishment for subsequent DUI convictions increases in severity when the convictions occur within seven years. The punishment for a second-time DUI conviction within seven years depends on the category of the offense and whether you face a misdemeanor or felony charge:
2nd Time DUI Regular
If your BAC was below .15% and there are no aggravating factors, the penalties you may face include up to 90 days in county jail, about $3,000 in fines, and installation of an ignition interlock device (IID).
2nd Time DUI Extreme
A 2nd time extreme DUI conviction occurs when your BAC exceeds .15% but is less than .20%. In addition to installing an IID, you face 120 days in county jail and a fine of about $3,250.
2nd Time DUI Super Extreme
This category has the highest level of punishment for a 2nd time misdemeanor DUI conviction. This charge occurs when a person’s BAC is above .20%. You will need to install an IID. The jail time for a Super Extreme DUI increases to 180 days, and the fines increase to about $3,750.
Aggravated DUI for Second-Time DUI Charges
According to Arizona Revised Statutes §28-1383, a person convicted of a second DUI within 84 months automatically has their charges increased to aggravated DUI. An aggravated DUI is a Class 4 felony. The punishments for a felony aggravated DUI conviction are more severe than a misdemeanor 2nd offense DUI.
Additional Penalties for a Second-Time DUI Conviction in Arizona
In addition to the above punishments for DUI, the court suspends your driving privileges for one year. You also face up to five years of probation, which has numerous terms and conditions. You may be required to participate in community service, attend an alcohol treatment program, and appear for regular check-ins with a probation officer.
The potential collateral consequences for a 2nd time DUI include higher insurance rates and problems with employment. You may also have limited housing opportunities if you are renting a home.
Defenses to a Second Offense DUI in Tucson, AZ
There may be one or more DUI defenses your attorney may use to fight the DUI charges. If you are unable to prove you were not intoxicated, you may be able to plead down the DUI charges for an acceptable plea bargain.
Potential defenses to a 2nd time DUI charge include:
- Lack of probable cause for a DUI stop
- Errors made during the breathalyzer or blood tests
- Insufficient evidence to prove you were impaired while driving
- Violation of your constitutional rights
- A medical condition or environmental conditions caused a false BAC reading
- You were not in actual control of the motor vehicle
Repeat DUI offenses can have life-changing consequences if you are convicted. It is crucial to exercise your rights not to incriminate yourself further and contact an experienced DUI lawyer in Tucson immediately.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Tucson 2nd Time DUI Defense Attorney
Being charged with driving under the influence is a serious matter. Facing it head-on with the help of skilled criminal defense attorneys is the best way to protect your interests. Call Katsarelis Law Criminal Defense Attorneys for a free case review with a Tucson 2nd-time DUI attorney.