Yuma and Wellton Defense Lawyers, DUI and Marijuana Specialists

or DUI in Yuma, Arizona.

Chances are you have been stopped by one of the local police agencies and now have to make an appearance in one of several courts in the Yuma area. I hope this information helps. If you have questions, feel free to call and ask or send me an e-mail.

The way in which DUIs are handled around the State vary with the court, but this is what you can expect in Yuma, Arizona.

Driving under the Influence

This is usually charged as two separate offenses, Driving under the Influence, defined as driving a vehicle while impaired to the slightest degree, and driving a vehicle with an alcohol level greater than .08%. Each offense is a class one misdemeanor and carries a sentence of up to 6 months in jail and up to a total of $4,500.00 in fines.

The normal sentence for a first offense in Yuma is ten days in jail, nine days suspended if alcohol classes are attended, and a fine of $1,400.00.

Additional penalties exist.

License Suspension

Generally a driver's license is suspended for 90 days. For commercial drivers, the CDL is suspended for one year or for a lifetime on a second incident. Out of state licenses may be also be suspended in some instances for up to one year.

If a breath or blood test was refused, a suspension for one year is required.

Insurance Rates

Insurance rates go up, and in some cases a special type of insurance can be required called SR-22. In most cases the SR-22 insurance can be avoided if handled correctly. Do not request a hearing at Department of Motor Vehicles without first talking to someone knowledgeable about insurance requirements.

Commercial Drivers

CDLs are suspended for one year with a first offense and suspended lifetime on a second incident.

Fingerprints Identification Cards

For some professions finger print identification cards are required, limitations may exist. If you have a finger print identification card, consult with an attorney before taking any action in your case.

Extreme DUI

Is DUI when the alcohol test is above a .15%. The pentalties start at a mandatory 10 days in jail and $2,700.00 fine and go up. New DUI laws went into effect on September 19, 2007 which increase the penalty to a mandatory 45 days in jail if the breath or blood test is above a .20%

The penalties for extreme DUI are such that you should always talk to an attorney before entering a plea on this offense.

DUI with prior convictions and Felony DUI

Always consult with an attorney before taking any action on this type of case. The penalties and limitations are so severe that an attorney should always be used. Do not take a chance and try to do this yourself. Call someone.

Before entering a plea to any DUI charge it is worth while to consult with an attorney. Even if a plea of guilty is to be entered steps can be taken to minimize the impact of a DUI charge.

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