Accomplished Arizona Lawyer Aids Motorists Charged with Drunk Driving
Flagstaff DUI Defense Attorney Defends Your Rights
Each year, Arizona law enforcement conducts hundreds of thousands of traffic stops, resulting in over 20,000 arrests for DUI. A DUI arrest carries severe consequences, even for first-time offenders. The steps you take from the moment you’re stopped can significantly impact your case. At the Law Office of Matthew J. Poirier PLLC in Flagstaff, I provide comprehensive defense counsel to clients accused of driving under the influence, guiding them through the legal process to achieve the best possible outcome.
How is DUI Assessed?
Law enforcement officers use several methods to determine if a motorist is impaired. These include field sobriety tests (FSTs) and blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) tests. While FSTs are not mandatory, refusing them can be challenging. Arizona considers drivers legally intoxicated with a BAC of .08% or higher, with stricter limits for underage and commercial drivers. Refusing a breathalyzer can lead to a one-year license suspension, regardless of intoxication.
DUI Penalties and Consequences in Arizona
DUI penalties in Arizona vary based on prior convictions and BAC levels. These can include:
- Incarceration: Minimum 10-day jail sentence for first-time offenders, with penalties increasing for higher BAC levels and repeat offenses.
- Fines: Starting at $1,250, with higher fines for repeat offenders or higher BAC levels.
- License Suspension: A 90-day suspension for first-time offenders, with the possibility of a restricted license using an ignition interlock device.
- Ignition Interlock Device: Mandatory installation for those convicted, preventing vehicle operation without a sober breathalyzer test.
Why Hire a DUI Defense Attorney?
Navigating the criminal justice system after a DUI arrest can be overwhelming. Pleading guilty without understanding the full scope of the charges and potential defenses can lead to unnecessary penalties. I will thoroughly investigate your case, scrutinizing police actions and evidence to build a strong defense or negotiate a reduced penalty.
Contact a Skillful Northern Arizona DUI Defense Attorney
The Law Office of Matthew J. Poirier PLLC represents clients accused of drunk and drug-impaired driving in Flagstaff and the surrounding areas. Schedule a free consultation by calling (928) 522-4866 or contacting me online to discuss your case with an experienced attorney.