Just like no two snowflakes are the same, no two DUI cases are the exact same either. Lerner and Rowe Law Group understands that every case requires unique handling. Our DUI lawyers in Scottsdale will help you better understand the difference between an “extreme DUI” and an “aggravated DUI.” You can trust Lerner and Rowe Law Group to help you every step of the way.
Extreme DUI vs. Aggravated DUI: What’s the difference?
Extreme DUI charge
An extreme DUI charge is a misdemeanor as are most DUI charges in Arizona. An extreme DUI charge is structured similarly to a standard DUI, except that the driver’s BAC percentage is at least 0.15% as measured as opposed to 0.08%. This is nearly double (or greater) the percentage of a standard DUI. The consequences are usually much more severe, with larger fines and more jail time possible. You’ll need the help of DUI lawyers in Scottsdale regardless, but it’s still true that an extreme DUI is still often considered a misdemeanor.
An extreme DUI charge focuses on the driver’s BAC level at the time they were driving. Whereas the aggravated DUI (below) is a standard DUI enhanced by “aggravating factors” present at the time the DUI was allegedly committed. If you have any questions, please contact us today.
Aggravated DUI charge
The aggravated DUI focuses on “aggravating factors” present at the time of arrest. These are factors that are considered so important that one or more of them can turn what would otherwise be a misdemeanor charge into a felony charge. So, contact us today to learn more about these charges,.
These factors include:
- Committing a DUI while there’s a passenger under the age of 15 in the vehicle.
Any driver pulled over and charged with a DUI will have those charges elevated to “aggravated DUI” with any passenger under the age of 15. This class of aggravated DUI is a class 6 felony.
- Driving without a complete or valid license.
If pulled over and charged with a DUI with a suspended, restricted, or revoked license, you’ll likely face aggravated DUI charges.
- Arrested for a third DUI in seven years (84 months).
If you received two DUI charges within the last seven years in addition to the current DUI charge, your charges will elevate to “aggravated DUI” status.
- Driving without a required interlock device.
If previously convicted of DUI, the courts may require an installation of an interlock device on your car. If pulled over for suspicion of DUI without the device installed, your charges will elevate to aggravated DUI status. DUI lawyers in Scottsdale will certainly represent you should this happen so that you receive the best outcome possible. However, if you simply install the interlock device when instructed to do so you’ve avoided this problem.
Charged with DUI? Our experienced DUI lawyers in Scottsdale can help!
If you’ve been charged with an extreme or aggravated DUI, don’t waste a moment. Contact one of our Lerner & Rowe Law Group DUI lawyers in Scottsdale immediately. We offer affordable payment plans, and are available 24/7 to take your call at 602-667-7777.
You can also contact us via LiveChat now! We also look forward to helping you every step of the way.