First Offense DUI

Maricopa County / Metro Phoenix Defense Attorney in First DUI Offenses

If you have never been arrested for drunk driving, the prospect of conviction can be very frightening. With your driver's license at risk and many other serious consequences, a first offense for driving under the influence requires a skilled and experienced attorney.

Contact the law office of Cheryl A. Brown, L.L.C. as soon as possible if you or a family member has been arrested for DUI. I will act quickly to assure that your rights are protected and work hard to minimize the impact of charges on your life. I represent first-time offenders in the greater Phoenix area and other communities in Maricopa County, Pinal County, Yavapai County, and Yuma County.

A DUI Charge Can Have Serious Consequences

You will be facing a criminal charge for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) if you have a blood alcohol content of .08 or greater. If you are under 21 or have a commercial driver's license, you could be charged with Impairment to the Slightest Degree if you have a blood alcohol content less than .08.

A DUI in Arizona is a misdemeanor, but it carries serious penalties nonetheless. Because the consequences rise sharply for a subsequent DUI in the future, it is important to challenge the first offense in court or try to negotiate a plea agreement.

If convicted of impaired driving or DUI, you will:

• Serve 10 days in jail (court may suspend up to 9 days and require a minimum of 24 hours with drug/alcohol evaluation and completion of mandatory treatment program)
• Fines and costs exceeding $1,500
• 90-day driver's license suspension (30 days no driving, and restricted license possible for the remaining 60 days)
• Ignition interlock device on car for a minimum 12 months after license reinstatement
• Possible impoundment of your vehicle

Other penalties can include court-ordered alcohol counseling and traffic survival school, community service, probation, and/or restitution.

Challenging a First DUI Offense

The decision to go to trial to fight a DUI / DWI depends on the evidence against you, the jurisdiction where you are charged, and any previous convictions you have for other crimes.

We can challenge the legality of the traffic stop and field sobriety tests, the results of Intoxilyzer blood alcohol testing, the qualifications of the arresting officer, or errors in the chain of custody of evidence. If there is a solid argument in your favor, the prosecutor may agree to dismiss the DUI charge, allow you to plead to a lesser charge, such as reckless driving, and/or dismiss other charges.

As an experienced Phoenix DUI offense attorney, I will give you an honest opinion of whether you should take your case to court or try to negotiate a plea agreement. I practice in all municipal and justice courts of Maricopa County, and I know the requirements placed on prosecutors. I will always fight for the best possible outcome in your case.

When it is time to request reinstatement of your driver's license, or if you are later charged with another DUI or any criminal offense, I will be there for you.

Contact me, a Phoenix DUI / DWI lawyer with proven results and knowledge of the system. I offer a free, 30-minute consultation, and I accept credit cards and payment plans.