DUI Attorney Mesa: Comprehensive DUI Defense

Put Former Prosecutors on Your Side with Our Mesa DUI Lawyers

If you or someone you know has been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, you need to contact a Mesa DUI defense lawyer immediately. Our award-winning DUI defense attorneys in Mesa are dedicated to helping clients fight their DUI charges and protect their rights. As our team includes a former police officer and former prosecutors, Knowles Law Firm, PLC understands the other side of DUI cases and knows how to challenge the evidence against you.

Understanding the prosecution's perspective allows our DUI lawyers to anticipate the strategies that might be employed against our clients. This insight enables us to prepare robust defenses, challenge evidentiary weaknesses, and negotiate favorable outcomes for our clients. With our knowledge of law enforcement procedures, we can assess whether any rights were violated during stops and arrests, offering a significant advantage in court.

Facing DUI Charges in Mesa? Don't wait. Request your free consultation with the DUI defense lawyers of Knowles Law Firm, PLC today by calling (602) 702-5431 or completing our online form today.

DUI Charges & Penalties in MESA, Arizona

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in Arizona. There are steep penalties for even a first-time arrest with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or more. If a defendant's BAC is high, ranging from .15 to .199%, they would be charged with an extreme DUI and face more severe penalties. A super extreme DUI would be the charge in cases where a driver has a BAC of .20% or higher.

Arizona takes DUI charges very seriously, with strict laws and severe penalties designed to deter impaired driving. Besides the immediate legal consequences such as fines and jail time, a DUI conviction can have lasting impacts on your life, including increased insurance premiums, employment difficulties, and a permanent criminal record. Understanding these risks underlines the necessity of securing strong legal representation from a DUI lawyer in Mesa as soon as charges are brought.

If you are arrested and convicted of a first-time DUI, you could face:

• A Mandatory Minimum Sentence: 10 days in jail (and a minimum of 45 days for a super extreme DUI)
• Fines: Up to $1,480 to $3,250
• License suspension for a minimum of 90 days
• Mandatory ignition interlock device (IID) installation for 1 year

A second DUI conviction in Arizona could mean:

• Minimum Jail Time: 90 days (up to a minimum of 180 days for a super extreme DUI)
• Fines: $3,000 to $4,250
• License suspension for a minimum of 1 year
• Mandatory ignition interlock device for 1 year

A third DUI conviction would mean felony charges and:

• At least 4 months in jail
• 1 year of license suspension
• Two years with an ignition interlock device
• More than $4,000 in fines

Even if you are never convicted of DUI, if you refuse to take a blood or breath test when requested by law enforcement, you could still face a driver's license suspension for a minimum of one year. Whatever type of drugged or drunk driving charges you face, you need a legal advocate on your side that you can rely on.

Understanding implied consent in Arizona is critical. Under this law, drivers automatically agree to abide by BAC testing when they receive their driver's license. Refusal to comply not only results in license suspension but can also be used as evidence against you in court. Knowledge of such nuances is where our legal guidance becomes crucial, helping you navigate the complexities of Arizona's DUI laws.

How a DUI Affects Your Life & Future

A DUI conviction can have long-lasting effects on various aspects of your life. One of the most immediate impacts is on your driving privileges, with license suspensions or restrictions altering your mobility. Losing your license can affect your daily routine, including your ability to get to work, attend classes, or run essential errands, thereby disrupting your livelihood.

Additionally, a DUI can affect your employment opportunities. Many employers conduct background checks and may view a DUI conviction unfavorably. This is especially true in professions that require a clean driving record or background, such as commercial driving or law enforcement. Furthermore, the financial implications are considerable, with increased insurance premiums and various legal costs compounding the stress. Addressing these impacts requires strategic legal action to minimize the consequences and protect your future with guidance from a skilled DUI defense attorney.

Contact a Trial-Tested DUI Lawyer in Mesa

At Knowles Law Firm, PLC, not only do we possess insider knowledge on how law enforcement and prosecution operate, but we also have successfully defended thousands of people. Our lead attorney is among the Top 100 Trial Lawyers in Arizona, and we provide this powerhouse defense with individualized attention. 

Call (602) 702-5431 today or contact us online to request your free DUI case review!

FAQ: Navigating DUI Charges in Mesa

Should I Hire a Lawyer for My DUI Charge in Mesa?

Hiring a lawyer for a DUI charge can be highly beneficial, given the complexities and potential repercussions of a DUI conviction. An experienced DUI attorney in Mesa can provide guidance through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected and exploring options to mitigate penalties. They can assess the validity of the evidence against you and negotiate on your behalf, potentially leading to reduced charges or alternative sentencing.

What Are the Costs Associated with a DUI Conviction?

The costs associated with a DUI conviction can be extensive. Beyond fines imposed by the court, individuals may face increased insurance premiums, mandatory alcohol education program fees, and the costs for installing and maintaining an ignition interlock device. Additionally, there may be indirect costs related to employment and transportation due to license suspension.

Can a DUI Conviction Be Expunged in Arizona?

In Arizona, DUI convictions cannot be expunged, but they can be set aside. A set-aside indicates that all penalties have been fulfilled, but the offense remains on your record. While a set-aside does not erase the conviction, it can improve employability and other aspects of life by showing that the legal requirements were completed successfully.

What Steps Should I Take After Being Charged with a DUI in Mesa?

If charged with a DUI in Mesa, it's crucial to act quickly. First, consult with a qualified DUI attorney to evaluate the details of your arrest and charge. This legal consultation is vital in understanding your rights and developing a strategy. It's also important to adhere to any upcoming legal requirements such as court dates or license suspension hearings.