by Sean Forrester, ESQ | Criminal Defense Attorneys
Toughest DUI Laws
Last month, Wallethub.com posted the results of its survey comparing the drunk driving laws of all 50 states and the District of Colombia. The study found that Arizona ranked number one for having the harshest DUI laws in the country.
The methodology used in the WalletHub.com survey took into consideration 15 factors to identify the most strict and also most lenient states for DUI offenses. The survey used a point system to assign weight to the several factors.
In coming to the conclusion Arizona has the toughest DUI laws in the country, Wallethub.com considered the following:
- Minimum jail time (first conviction)
- Minimum jail time (second conviction)
- When is a DUI considered a felony
- The time period for which a prior DUI conviction can be used to enhance the penalties
- Are there additional penalties for a high BAC?
- Minimum fine (first conviction)
- Minimum fine (second conviction)
- Do the states DUI laws protect against child endangerment?
- When is an ignition interlock mandatory?
- If there is an administrative license suspension and the length of that suspension?
- How long is the ignition interlock mandatory?
- Is alcohol abuse assessment and/or treatment necessary?
- Are there consequences for refusing blood, breath, or also urine testing?
- Does the state use DUI checkpoints?
- Other penalties?
A Different Perspective
As a DUI attorney, I’m not completely in agreement with the criteria used in the survey and the weight given to each factor. However, I do not disagree that Arizona’s DUI laws are harsh. Arizona has a plethora of mandatory minimum penalties for a DUI conviction – even for first time offenders. These include jail time, fines, installation of an interlock device, and also a suspension of your license. Hiring a DUI lawyer to evaluate your case is crucial if you want to fight your DUI charge and avoid or also, reduce Arizona’s harsh DUI penalties.
The Lerner and Rowe Law Group has a team of experienced DUI lawyers who aggressively represent persons charged with DUI crimes all across the state of Arizona. A criminal conviction can disrupt your education, career, or other social opportunities. For these reasons, you need a top DUI lawyer on your side. So, contact us today at 602-667-7777 to schedule your free consultation.