Flagstaff Felony DUI Lawyer

Flagstaff Felony DUI Attorney

Obtaining legal counsel for a felony DUI case is important because of the possible consequences, especially in a state with some of the strictest DUI laws in the U.S. A Flagstaff felony DUI lawyer who is deeply familiar with the DUI laws in Arizona can support the individual charged and possibly influence a better outcome in their case.

In Arizona, any aggravated DUI is also a felony DUI and holds a minimum sentence of four months in prison if there’s a conviction. This is in addition to a large fine and other penalties. Certain factors can have more severe ramifications and affect a person’s life in ways that go beyond legal consequences, like having multiple DUI offenses.

The Difference Between a Felony DUI and a Standard DUI

An important distinction between a felony DUI and a standard DUI is that a standard DUI is only determined by your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level and, therefore, is classified as a misdemeanor. A felony DUI takes into account your BAC in addition to the “aggravating” situation presented. It’s a more serious offense.

Here are the key differences in the consequences:

Usually, the penalties for a misdemeanor DUI include a fine, suspended license, mandatory drug/alcohol treatment, and the prospect of jail time up to a year.

The punishment for a felony DUI conviction is harsher than a misdemeanor, including a large fine, license revocation for an unspecified amount of time, and a few months of prison time at a minimum. Other strict penalties are enforced, and severity depends on the aggravating elements included.

The long-term effects of any DUI can be damaging to a person, but a standard DUI has less severe damaging qualities than a felony DUI. They both stay on your record indefinitely, negatively affect your insurance, and can cause you to miss out on possible job opportunities. However, a felony on your record does stand out more than a misdemeanor and can leave a permanent mark on every aspect of life.

Felony DUI Penalties in Arizona

Felony DUIs in Flagstaff, Arizona fall into two categories: class 4 felony and class 6 felony. A DUI becomes a class 4 felony under four aggravating circumstances:

• If the person is driving with a suspended or restricted license
• The person is driving without their required ignition lock
• If this is the third or more DUI offense within seven years
• If the person drives the incorrect way on the highway.

The penalties for a class 4 felony are as follows:

• Four months to 4 years in prison
• Up to $150,000 in fines
• Mandatory drug and/or alcohol screening
• Mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device for at least a year
• License revocation for a mandatory year

There is only one circumstance when a DUI becomes a class 6 felony, and that is when the driver has a child under the age of 15 in the car with them. The penalties for a class 6 felony are similar to those for a class 4 felony, apart from prison time. Incarceration for a class 6 felony can be lower than some class 4 felonies, with a minimum sentence of 4 months and a maximum of 2 years.

The more aggravating the circumstances, the harsher the punishment. It’s important to keep in mind that people who already possess a complicated criminal history are at risk of taking on a stricter punishment if charged with a felony DUI.

FAQs

Q: How Much Does a DUI Lawyer Cost in Arizona?

A: The cost of a DUI lawyer in Flagstaff and throughout Arizona varies. Several factors must be examined to make a decision about the cost of a lawyer. Before an attorney gives a price estimate, they usually take into consideration one’s criminal history, the charges brought against the client, client demands, and their own experience, amongst other things. It’s always a good idea to speak with an attorney regarding all of these things.

Q: When Can I Get my License Back After a Felony DUI Conviction in Arizona?

A: Getting your license back after being convicted of a felony DUI can be hard but not impossible. There are several steps you will have to take first. The first step is making sure all duties set by the court have been fulfilled. Once your mandatory revocation time has ended, you must fulfill all necessary requirements before you can begin the process of getting your license reinstated. This usually includes installing an ignition interlock device on your car.

Q: Is an Extreme DUI in Arizona a Felony?

A: An extreme DUI is classified as having a BAC level between 0.150 and 0.199 percent and is not classified as a felony under Arizona law since it doesn’t involve an “aggravated” situation. An extreme DUI is considered a misdemeanor, like a standard DUI. It is still a serious matter, like all DUIs, and has a penalty of up to 6 months in jail.

Q: Is It Worth Getting a Lawyer for a DUI in Arizona?

A: It is always wise and well worth it to get a lawyer for any DUI charges brought against you. A conviction can have several long-lasting repercussions, and you might find that having an attorney to guide you can largely help your case. A good attorney can help you get reduced charges or even win your case. It is not advisable to handle any criminal charges without a lawyer.

Why Hire an Attorney From Glazer, Hammond & Smets, PLLC?

The criminal defense lawyers at Glazer, Hammond & Smets, PLLC bring a wide range of experience and dedication to achieving the greatest possible outcome for people who get into legal trouble in Flagstaff, Arizona. With knowledge and experience spreading over various legal matters and with a combined 20+ years of experience, working through the intricacies of the legal system can be a much smoother experience.

By approaching each case with compassion and good communication, the attorneys at Glazer, Hammond & Smets, PLLC make sure that clients feel supported, heard, and well-informed during the entire process. Contact the office now if you’re in need of legal assistance with a DUI.