Everybody knows it is both illegal and unsafe to drive a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Unfortunately, this is not enough to deter some people. The reality is that when you get behind the wheel while under the influence, you put yourself and those around you in serious danger. However, we do believe that everyone makes mistakes and that people deserve a second chance. If you have been charged with a drug DUI, here are some of the questions you may have:

What are the penalties for a first-offense drug DUI?

Getting charged with a DUI is serious, even if it is only your first offense. For example, if convicted, you may have your driving privileges taken away for a period of time, which can affect your ability to return to school, commute to work, and more. If this is your first drug DUI offense, here are some of the penalties you may face:

• Up to 10 days in jail
• Mandatory Drug Screening and Counseling
• A $250 fine, plus additional surcharges
• A $500 Prison Construction Fee
• A $500 Department of Public Safety Fee
• Between 90 days and 1 year of suspended driving privileges

What are the consequences of a second or subsequent drug DUI offense?

If this is your second drug DUI offense, Arizona courts will now treat you as a repeat offender. This is never a good situation to find yourself in, as the state of Arizona does not go easy on those who operate motor vehicles while under the influence. Those charged with a second or subsequent drug DUI offense may face the following penalties:

• Between 30 and 90 days in jail
• Mandatory Drug Screening and Counseling
• 30 hours of mandatory community service
• A $500 fine plus surcharges
• $1250 Prison Construction Fee
• $1250 Department of Public Safety Fee
• A 1-year license revocation

Is there any way to fight a drug DUI?

Fortunately, with the help of a skilled attorney, you may be able to fight your DUI charge. Some examples of potential defenses against drug DUI’s are as follows:

• You either were not driving or were not in physical control of the vehicle at the time of your arrest
• There was no reasonable suspicion to conduct an investigative stop
• The officer did not have probable cause for arrest
• The blood or urine sample you gave law enforcement was improperly obtained or analyzed
• The field sobriety tests were improperly or unfairly administered
• The officer violated your constitutional rights in some way

Contact our experienced Arizona firm

The legal team at Weintraub & Weintraub has years of experience representing clients who have been injured in accidents due to the negligence of others as well as those who are facing charges of driving under the influence. Those injured due to another party’s negligence should never have to suffer alone. If you need strong legal representation, please do not hesitate to contact our firm today.