Phoenix DUI Lawyer
05/13/2026
Is a DUI a Felony in Arizona?| Phoenix DUI Lawyer Explains the Law
Is a DUI a felony in Arizona? In this video, Phoenix DUI Lawyer breaks down exactly when a DUI charge crosses the line from a misdemeanor to a serious felony offense under Arizona law. If you or someone you know is facing DUI charges in Arizona, understanding the difference between a standard DUI, an extreme DUI, and an aggravated DUI could make all the difference in your case.
Arizona treats driving under the influence more aggressively than many other states. While most first-time DUI offenses are classified as misdemeanors, certain circumstances can elevate your charge to a felony — carrying far harsher penalties including mandatory prison time, heavy fines, and long-term license suspension. We walk you through every scenario so you know exactly what you could be facing.
Under A.R.S. 28-1382, if your blood alcohol concentration measures between 0.15 and 0.20 within two hours of driving, you face an extreme DUI charge. That means a minimum of 30 consecutive days in jail with no option for probation or early release, fines starting at $250, a $1,000 ignition interlock device fee, and a full year with an IID installed in your vehicle. If your BAC exceeds 0.20, you are looking at a super extreme DUI — 45 consecutive days in jail minimum, $500 in fines, and the same interlock requirements.
We also explain aggravated DUI charges under A.R.S. 28-1383, which apply when additional factors are involved. Your DUI becomes an aggravated felony if a child under 15 was in your vehicle at the time of arrest, if your license was already suspended or revoked, if you were required to use an ignition interlock device and failed to do so, or if you have two or more prior DUI convictions within a seven-year period. Aggravated DUI penalties are severe — a minimum of eight months in jail, one year of license suspension, at least two years with an ignition interlock device, mandatory alcohol or drug screening and treatment, and thousands of dollars in fines and fees.
But a felony DUI charge does not automatically mean a conviction. In this video, we cover several powerful defense strategies that an experienced attorney can use to fight your case. These include challenging the legality of the initial traffic stop, questioning whether you had actual physical control of the vehicle, examining arrest procedures for violations of your rights, contesting the administration of field sobriety tests, and challenging the accuracy of breathalyzer or blood test results. Devices that are improperly calibrated, contaminated samples, or broken chain of custody can all be grounds to have evidence thrown out.
Felony DUI charges make up roughly 30 percent of all DUI arrests across Arizona, and the consequences extend far beyond the courtroom — affecting your employment, housing, and personal relationships for years to come. That is why acting quickly and getting the right legal representation matters.
Phoenix DUI Lawyer has been successfully defending clients for more than 20 years. Our experienced attorneys understand Arizona DUI law inside and out, and we are committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the best possible outcome for your case.
Do not face a felony DUI charge alone. Call Phoenix DUI Lawyer today for a free consultation.
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📍 For more info: https://phoenixduilawyer.xyz/news-dui-felony-arizona-understanding-aggravated-charges-and-legal-consequences.html
DISCLAIMER: This video is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different, and results depend on the specific facts and circumstances involved. Contact a qualified attorney to discuss your situation.
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