Extreme or aggravated DUI requires installation of an IID
Driving under the influence of alcohol, or DUI, is a serious charge in the state of Arizona. It is even more serious if the offense is either extreme or aggravated DUI.
These are categories that bring heavy penalties including installation of an ignition interlock device that must remain in your vehicle for up to 12 months.
Charged with extreme DUI
If testing shows that your blood alcohol concentration level is 0.15% or higher, you are looking at a charge of extreme DUI. Even if this is your first offense, you will go to jail for a minimum of 30 days during which you will not be eligible for probation. You will also pay a fine of at least $2,500, perform community service and participate in an alcohol education program.
For a second or subsequent offense, the fine increases to a minimum of $3,250, you will lose your driver’s license for 12 months, spend at least 120 days behind bars, attend alcohol education or treatment and perform community service. For the first and any subsequent offense, you must have an IID installed in any vehicle you drive.
Stopped for aggravated DUI
A law enforcement officer might charge you with aggravated DUI for a variety of reasons:
- Having a passenger with you who is under the age of 15
- Driving with a suspended, revoked or canceled license
- Committing a third DUI within 84 months
- Refusing to submit to a blood alcohol content test when you are driving with an IID
Faced with installation of an IID
If a law enforcement officer stops you on suspicion of either extreme or aggravated DUI, you may think there is no point in trying to fight the charges. However, a strong defense begins with a thorough investigation into the circumstances. For example, did the officer have reasonable suspicion for stopping you or did he or she violate your rights? A successful defense strategy may keep you from going to jail and prevent an order for the installation of an IID in your vehicle.
