Driving Under the Influence (DUI)

DUI and DWI is a serious criminal offense that has the potential to impact the financial, professional and personal aspects of the accused. Unfortunately, sometimes good people are charged with a crime. We understand that an allegation can turn your life upside down. Not only are you affected, but your family too. Our attorneys understand the difficult decisions you face.

According to ARS §28-1381, “it is unlawful for a person to drive or be in actual physical control of a vehicle in this state under any of the following circumstances:

• While under the influence of intoxicating liquor, any drug, a vapor releasing substance containing a toxic substance or any combination of liquor, drugs or vapor releasing substances if the person is impaired to the slightest degree.
• If the person has an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more within two hours of driving or being in actual physical control of the vehicle and the alcohol concentration results from alcohol consumed either before or while driving or being in actual physical control of the vehicle.
• While there is any drug defined in section 13-3401 or its metabolite in the person’s body.
• If the vehicle is a commercial motor vehicle that requires a person to obtain a commercial driver license as defined in section 28-3001 and the person has an alcohol concentration of 0.04 or more.”

Keep in mind however, that Arizona is a no-tolerance state for DUI meaning that you can be arrested even if your blood-alcohol level is less than the legal limit of 0.08. If convicted of a DUI or DWI offense, consequences may include:

• Jail time
• Heavy fines
• Interlock device
• A suspended driver’s license
• A damaged reputation

Snell & Wilmer’s criminal defense attorneys are experienced DUI attorneys who represent clients in all aspects of their defense. We know how stressful these circumstances are and can guide our clients as they navigate what to expect throughout the process. We have the resolve to defend your rights and seek the most favorable outcome for each client.

Having your minor child arrested can be a devastating experience for a parent. Children and adolescents may find themselves in trouble with the law when they act on a dare, a whim, or in rebellion, without considering or understanding the potential consequences of their behavior. Although a type of criminal law, juvenile crime law only deals with under-age individuals, who are treated very differently than adults in criminal law, and usually have their own courts of law. Per Arizona Revised Statutes §8-302 minors under the age of 18 years, who commit a crime, or otherwise violate established rules and statutes, and who is not subject to prosecution as an adult pursuant to section 13-501, shall have their case transferred to the juvenile court.

These types of cases can include:

• Drug offenses
• Possession of alcohol
• Possession of weapons charge
• Theft or burglary
• Trespassing
• Underage drinking
• Underage driving while under the influence (DUI)
• Vandalism

Snell & Wilmer criminal defense attorneys understand that if your child has been arrested for any of these or other crimes, there’s a good chance you’re feeling shock, anger and disbelief. It is normal to feel angry at your child while being worried about how it could affect their future. Regardless of your anger and disappointment, your child needs your help and support. Snell & Wilmer criminal defense attorneys can devote the required time and close attention to your child’s case, to protect your child’s rights and best interest by keeping the child in the juvenile system, which was created to meet the needs of young defendants.

Our Phoenix drunk driving defense attorney team includes, among others, a former U.S. Attorney, a former federal agency Inspector General, several former federal and state prosecutors, a former Trial Attorney with the Antitrust Division of the U.S. Department of Justice and former Judge Advocates from every branch of the military service. The firm is widely recognized and can leverage resources to address complex and sensitive issues.