Understanding Aggravated DUI with a Suspended License in Arizona | Kolsrud Law Offices

Investigative Article

Introduction

Driving under the influence is a serious offense and can result in grave consequences, such as license suspension or revocation, heavy fines, and even jail time. However, things get much more complicated when someone is caught driving under the influence with a suspended license, which makes the situation much more severe. In this investigative article, we will explore the legal aspects and penalties of aggravated DUI with a suspended license in Arizona to provide a complete picture of the consequences of this offense.

Reasons For A Suspended License

A driver's license can be suspended for several reasons, such as failure to pay traffic fines, violating traffic laws, or other criminal offenses. In Arizona, some common reasons for license suspension include:
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Failing to attend a mandatory traffic school program
  • Driving recklessly
  • Being at fault in a fatal accident
If a driver's license is suspended, they are not allowed to legally operate a vehicle in Arizona.

What Is An Aggravated DUI?

Aggravated DUI is a more severe offense compared to a regular DUI charge. The following circumstances can lead to an aggravated DUI:
  • Committing a DUI offense while driving on a suspended or revoked license
  • Having a minor under the age of 15 in the vehicle while driving under the influence
  • Being charged with a third DUI within the previous 84 months (7 years)
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs with a BAC level of 0.15 or higher
  • Committing a DUI offense while there is an ignition interlock device required on their vehicle
  • The DUI offense happened as a result of a hit-and-run accident
An aggravated DUI conviction can result in severe penalties, including jail time, hefty fines, and the installation of an ignition interlock device.

What Is The BAC For Aggravated DUI In Arizona?

In Arizona, a driver can be charged with aggravated DUI if their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) level is 0.15 or higher. This is almost double the legal limit for regular DUI charges, which is 0.08. When charged with aggravated DUI, the consequences are much more severe than charged with a regular DUI offense.

Penalties For Driving On A Suspended License

Driving on a suspended license in Arizona is considered a serious traffic offense. The first offense of driving on a suspended license can result in a 30-day jail sentence, a fine of $500, and an additional suspension period for the driver's license. The severity of the penalties increases with each subsequent offense. If a driver is caught driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol with a suspended license, the consequences are much more severe. The driver could be charged with aggravated DUI, and the penalties would depend on the individual circumstances of the case.

Revocation vs. Suspension: Understanding License Penalties In Arizona DUI Cases

In Arizona, a driver's license may be revoked, which means it is canceled and no longer valid. A revoked license must be reissued after the revocation period and after the driver meets specific criteria or requirements. A revoked license indicates that the driver is no longer legally licensed to operate a motor vehicle in Arizona. A suspended license, on the other hand, means that the driver's license is temporarily invalid for a specified period. A suspended license indicates that the driver may be eligible to have their license reissued after fulfilling specific requirements or conditions, which may include paying fines, traffic tickets, or attending required programs.

Contact The Defense Attorneys From Kolsrud Law Offices

As we've detailed, an aggravated DUI charge with a suspended license can have severe consequences. Kolsrud Law Offices can help navigate the legal process and provide you or your loved ones with the legal representation you need. If you or someone you know has been charged with aggravated DUI with a suspended license, contact Kolsrud law offices today.
Aggravated, Suspended-Aggravated DUI with a Suspended License: ARS 28-1383


* This article was originally published here