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Scottsdale DUI Lawyer

Were you arrested for driving under the influence in Scottsdale, Arizona? Contact Orent Law Offices, PLC for a free consultation at (480) 656-7301. Our experienced Scottsdale DUI lawyer can help you fight back against the prosecution and work toward as favorable an outcome as possible.

We have been defending clients against serious criminal charges for years. Our criminal defense attorney has secured not guilty verdicts for clients accused of some of the most severe crimes under Arizona law. We know how much is at stake in a DUI case, and we will use our experience to protect your rights and your future.

Contact our criminal defense law firm today to learn more about how we can help you respond to your DUI charges in Scottsdale.

Why Hire Orent Law Offices to Help With My DUI Charges in Scottsdale, AZ?

When you’re facing DUI charges in Scottsdale, the lawyer you hire could shape the rest of your life. Not every attorney has the experience, resources, or track record needed to take on tough cases and win.

At Orent Law Offices, you’ll be represented by a Scottsdale criminal defense lawyer with:

• Over 34 years of DUI defense experience: Attorney Craig Orent has been fighting DUI cases in Arizona courts for more than three decades. He’s also been named a Certified Criminal Law Specialist by the State Bar of Arizona.
• Results you can count on: We have secured not guilty verdicts and dismissals for clients facing some of the most serious criminal charges in the state.
• Trial readiness: Prosecutors know we don’t shy away from trial. That reputation helps us negotiate from a position of strength.
• Personalized defense strategies: No two DUI cases are the same. We will take the time to understand your circumstances and build a defense tailored to your needs.
• Respected reputation: Our experience and track record of success mean that Maricopa County courts and prosecutors know we are serious advocates for our clients.

We have been practicing law in Arizona courts for decades, and now we’re ready to defend you. Contact our DUI attorney in Scottsdale, AZ, today for a free consultation.

A Brief Overview of Arizona DUI Laws

Arizona has some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation. Under Arizona Revised Statutes (A.R.S.) § 28-1381, a driver can be charged with DUI if they are in “actual physical control” of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs, or if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher within two hours of driving.

The law creates multiple categories of DUI depending on the level of impairment and the circumstances of the case.

Some of the most common include:

• Standard DUI: BAC of 0.08% or more (0.04% for commercial drivers, any detectable amount for drivers under 21).
• Extreme DUI: BAC of 0.15% or higher.
• Super Extreme DUI: BAC of 0.20% or higher.
• Aggravated DUI: Charged when aggravating factors are present, such as driving on a suspended license, having multiple prior DUI convictions, or having a child passenger under 15 in the vehicle.

A first-time DUI charge in Arizona still carries mandatory jail time and heavy financial penalties. The more serious the charge, the harsher the consequences.

What Are the Potential Penalties for a DUI Conviction in Scottsdale?

The penalties for a DUI in Arizona depend on factors such as the type of DUI, your BAC level, and whether you have prior convictions.

Here is a breakdown of what you may face.

For a first-time standard DUI:

• Minimum 10 days in jail
• Fines and fees totaling over $1,200
• License suspension for up to 90 days
• Mandatory ignition interlock device for 12 months
• Alcohol screening and treatment

For a first-time extreme DUI (BAC 0.15% or more):

• Minimum 30 days in jail
• Substantial fines and fees
• One-year ignition interlock device requirement
• Alcohol or other drug screening

For a first-time super extreme DUI (BAC 0.20% or more):

• Minimum 45 days in jail
• Increased fines and longer license suspension
• Ignition interlock for at least 18 months

For an aggravated DUI:

• Class 4 felony charges
• Minimum four months in prison
• Revoked license
• Heavier fines and penalties

Repeat offenders face even harsher penalties. For example, a second standard DUI conviction can lead to a 90-day minimum sentence and higher fines.

Collateral Consequences of a DUI Conviction

The impact of a DUI conviction goes beyond jail time and fines. Many people are surprised by the long-term consequences that follow them for years.

These collateral consequences may include:

• Increased auto insurance premiums or loss of coverage
• Loss of professional licenses or employment opportunities
• Immigration complications for non-citizens
• Difficulty renting an apartment or securing housing
• Social stigma and lasting damage to your reputation

These additional consequences make it even more important to fight your DUI charges with an experienced Scottsdale defense attorney at your side.

What Defenses Can I Raise in Response to DUI Charges in Scottsdale?

One of the most important things to know about DUI cases is that there are often multiple defense strategies available. The prosecution must prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. A skilled defense attorney can challenge that proof in many ways.

Some common defenses to DUI charges in Arizona include:

• Illegal traffic stop: If the police officer did not have reasonable suspicion to stop your vehicle, the stop may have been unlawful, and all evidence that followed could be excluded.
• Improper arrest procedures: Law enforcement must follow strict rules when making a DUI arrest. If they failed to read your rights or lacked probable cause, it could weaken the case against you.
• Problems with breath or blood testing: Machines must be calibrated and maintained, and technicians must follow proper procedures. Any error could render the results unreliable.
• Medical conditions or other explanations: Certain medical conditions, diets, or even mouthwash can cause false positives on breath tests.
• Challenging impairment evidence: Things like slurred speech or nervous behavior can all have causes other than intoxication.
• Lack of actual physical control: You can be charged with DUI even if you weren’t actively driving, but the state must prove you were in control of the vehicle.

At Orent Law Offices, we’ll carefully evaluate the facts to determine which defenses give you the strongest chance of success. Even if a complete dismissal isn’t possible, a successful defense can often reduce the charges and penalties you face.

How Can a Scottsdale DUI Lawyer Help Me?

Being arrested for DUI can leave you feeling overwhelmed and powerless. Having the right defense lawyer in your corner can make a tremendous difference. An experienced DUI attorney in Scottsdale does far more than just stand with you in court.

Here’s how a lawyer can help:

• Explaining your rights and options: The DUI process in Arizona can be confusing. Your attorney will make sure you understand what to expect at every stage.
• Investigating your case: A lawyer will review police reports, interview witnesses, and gather evidence to challenge the prosecution’s case.
• Filing motions: If your rights were violated, your lawyer can file motions to suppress evidence or even dismiss the charges.
• Negotiating with prosecutors: Many DUI cases are resolved through negotiation. A skilled attorney can work to have your charges dismissed or reduced if possible.
• Representing you at trial: Your lawyer will represent you at every court hearing, including at trial if taking your case to that stage is in your best interest.

Having legal representation means you don’t have to face the prosecution alone. It gives you an advocate who knows Arizona DUI law inside and out and who is committed to protecting your freedom.

What Should I Do After a DUI Arrest in Scottsdale, AZ?

The moments after a DUI arrest are critical. What you do and don’t do can affect the outcome of your case dramatically.

Here are some steps you should take to protect yourself:

• Stay calm and polite: Resisting or arguing with police will only make things worse.
• Exercise your right to remain silent: Anything you say can be used against you later.
• Do not assume guilt: Failing a breath test or being arrested does not mean you will be convicted.
• Contact an attorney immediately: The sooner you get legal help, the stronger your defense will be.

Remember that you are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. A DUI arrest is not the end; it’s the beginning of your defense.

Contact Our Experienced Scottsdale DUI Attorney for a Free Consultation

A DUI conviction in Arizona can mean serious consequences, including jail time and long-term damage to your future. However, with the right defense, it’s possible to protect your rights and fight for your freedom successfully.

At Orent Law Offices, we have more than 34 years of experience defending people accused of DUI in Scottsdale and throughout Arizona. We have built a reputation for securing not guilty verdicts in some of the toughest cases.

Contact our trusted Scottsdale DUI attorney today to get started with a free consultation.