Being arrested in Arizona for DUI or any crime means you are no longer in control of your life
You may be ordered to:
- Stop driving
- Submit to random alcohol/ drug testing and electronic monitoring
- Appear in court numerous times, jeopardizing your job
- Serve jail time
- Attend countless counseling sessions
- Drive only a vehicle equipped with an ignition interlock device for years.
Since 1979 I have helped over 5000 clients take back control of their lives
- I prevent the immediate suspension of their driver’s license
- I limit their requirement to appear in court
- I use my 40 years of experience to try to get the Best Result possible: a dismissal, a reduced charge or trial verdict of not guilty
- If there is a conviction I help my client avoid or lessen the many adverse consequences of a conviction
My job is to see the case through my client’s eyes
Being charged is a life-altering event. Each client is unique and their life can be affected differently. My job is to anticipate and minimize the consequences on each client’s unique life. Helping clients and their families with their problems is what my practice is all about, as I discuss in my video AZ DUI and the Family.
I have designed my practice as if I were the client
My clients are hardworking, normal people, just like me. If I was a client, what kind of service would I want? I would want to be kept fully informed about the progress of the case and what I could be required to do. I would expect my lawyer to anticipate effects on my life which I do not know of. Because this is what I would expect, this is what I provide to my clients. Personalized Service, keeping clients fully informed, is my sole responsibility from start to finish. My client service is second to none. My being your lawyer does not stop at the courthouse door and continues long after the last court date.
Call Now For Your Free Consultation
Video Conference With 1 Click
Gordon Thompson
Arizona DUI & Criminal Attorney
Important Questions and Answers for Arizona DUIs
1. Legal Arizona DUI Alcohol Levels
The 3 alcohol levels which violate Arizona state law are as follows;
- .08%, Regular DUI, 28 A.R.S. § 1381.A.2
- 15%, Extreme DUI, 28 A.R.S. § 1382.A.1
- .20%, Super-Extreme DUI, 28 A.R.S. § 1382.A.2
The State must prove the defendant’s alcohol level was at or above these levels within 2 hours of driving or being in actual physical control of a motor vehicle. If the breath tests were administered or the blood sample obtained more than 2 hours after the defendant was driving then the State can use a scientific principle known as Retrograde Analysis, to prove what the level was within 2 hours. If these levels can be proven then the defendant is guilty regardless of whether they were impaired or not and so for these charges it is all the more important to challenge the accuracy of the tests. For more see, dui-alcohol-levels-in-arizona.
2. Arizona Misdemeanor DUI Sentencing Penalties
Arizona First Offense Mandatory Minimum Sentences
Regular DUI, Alcohol Level Less than .15% and DUI Drugs
Extreme DUI with Alcohol Level of .15% or More
Super Extreme DUI with an Alcohol Level of .20% or More
Arizona Second Offense Mandatory Minimum Sentences
Regular DUI, Alcohol Level Less than .15% and DUI Drugs
Extreme DUI with Alcohol Level of .15% or More
Super Extreme DUI with an Alcohol Level of .20% or More
3. Driver’s Licensing Consequences of an Arizona DUI
Arizona Restricted Permits, Licenses and Special Ignition Interlock Restricted Licenses
B. First Implied Consent Suspension within the past 7 years
C. First Offense Regular or Extreme DUI conviction within the past 7 years
D. First Offense Felony DUI with Child in the Vehicle
E. Second Regular or Extreme DUI Within the Past 7 years
SR-22 Certificate of Insurance
Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) Consequences
Arizona MVD Licensing Corrective Actions for Out of State DUIs
4. What do I need to know when hiring a DUI Lawyer
How can I find the top/best/most experienced lawyer to defend me, or my friend or family member, for an Arizona DUI case?
You might try to get a referral from someone you trust, but otherwise, you must choose one among hundreds of practicing lawyers in the Valley alone. If so you should carefully and thoroughly review the attorney websites, reviews, blogs, etc. to decide which attorney is best for you. Be sure to also decide in advance what type of fee agreement you need as well.
5. Can I get a Free Consultation with an Attorney for my Criminal or DUI case?
Some attorneys, including me, offer a free consultation for criminal and DUI cases. Because not all attorneys offer free consultations it is important to first ask if the consultation is free. Also, many law firms offer consultations, but not with attorneys; rather, with what they describe as “legal Administrators” or “Legal Consultants”, or various other titles and who are basically salespeople. It is therefore important to make sure you are actually consulting with an attorney because they can best tell you what is possible for your case. For more please go to my podcast, dui-attorney-free-consultation.
6. Are there attorneys who offer payment plans for a DUI case?
Many lawyers refuse to take payments or may require a big down payment in order to offer a payment agreement, however, there are some lawyers who do offer payments and do not insist on a big advance payment. You should be able to easily find out what a prospective lawyer offers by visiting their website; if not, keep looking.
7. What is an Attorney Flat Fee for Misdemeanor Criminal & DUI cases?
There are 2 basic types of attorney fee agreements. The first is an hourly agreement under which the client agrees to pay the attorney so much per hour of the attorney’s (and their support staff’s) time spent on the case. The second type of agreement is a flat fee and with this agreement, the client agrees to pay so much for the entire case, no matter how much time the attorney and their support staff work on the case. For most misdemeanor criminal and DUI cases, a flat fee is better because it is often difficult to tell initially how much time will have to be spent on a case to get the best result. A flat fee is not necessarily the final fee for the case, at least as far the attorney is concerned. The reason is when the representation ends, either because the case concluded or client terminates the representation before the case would have otherwise been concluded, the attorney is required to review the fee payment to make sure the fee is not an unethical, excessive fee for the work performed. Most misdemeanor criminal and DUI fee agreements, including mine, provide for fee arbitration with the Arizona State Bar, if the client does not agree with the attorney’s opinion as to what is an ethical fee. For more please go to my podcast, flat-fees-for-dui-cases.
7. I have just been arrested for DUI. What do I need to know first
I was stopped and investigated for an Arizona DUI but was never arrested and did not get a ticket. How long do I need to be concerned about if I am looking at DUI charges?
In Arizona, if you are facing misdemeanor DUI charges the State has up to one year to file the DUI charges against you; if you are facing felony DUI charges the State has up to seven years to file an Aggravated DUI case.
I was arrested in Arizona for DUI but did not get a citation or a court date, and was told I would be charged and notified when the blood test results were completed. Who is testing my blood, and how long does it take to complete the testing and for charges to be filed?
Samples taken for cases involving Phoenix City police officers are sent to the Phoenix Crime Lab for testing. The Phoenix City Prosecutor’s office is typically prompt about filing charges if the test results from the Lab warrant them, however, it sometimes takes several months to complete the testing process. Samples taken for cases involving DPS, and involving County officers where blood is taken, are sent to the DPS Crime Lab, which might take several months. Phoenix City cases involving outside City police agencies are subject to that agencies’ particular practices.
I was arrested for DUI and my car has been impounded. Where is my car being held, and when/how can I get it back?
Arizona Law1 requires a vehicle to be impounded for 30 days when a Peace Officer has probable cause that the driver has committed several offenses including Extreme or Aggravated DUI or Underage Drinking and Driving. Just because your vehicle was towed as the result of a DUI arrest does not mean it is automatically being held on a 30-day impound; first, check the tow sheet to see if your vehicle is listed as a 30-day hold. If so, and the vehicle is also registered in somebody else’s name (for instance, your spouse, child or parent), the other registered party might be allowed to retrieve the vehicle early. If not, the hold is for 30 days, but you should be aware you must get your vehicle out of impound just as soon you can after it is eligible for release because you will be charged for each day the car is impounded. In addition, within a very short period of time, the tow company can and will file to take possession of your vehicle, and what is worse you will be charged a $500 vehicle abandonment fee and also will get a driver license suspension from MVD.
.A vehicle may be released early to the driver’s spouse or to someone else who has a financial interest, such as a loan company. Some police departments permit the vehicle to be released to a third party designated by an owner other than the driver. Ownership is determined as of the time of the stop and so a driver/ owner cannot subsequently transfer ownership to another person so that another person can get an early release of the vehicle. A person eligible for early release of the vehicle can request a hearing for an early release. The driver/ owner can also request a hearing to contest whether the arresting officer has probable cause for the offense or not. The hearing officers are either Police Officers or Police Department employees. If the hearing officer refuses to release the vehicle that decision is subject to review in a Justice Court. If the hearing officer does order the release of the vehicle the person to whom the vehicle is being released must have a valid driver’s license, be covered until the vehicle’s liability insurance and pay a $150 fee. The vehicle must also be currently registered. If these requirements are met the hearing officer issues an order to the tow yard authorizing the release to that person. For more information please scroll down to the particular jurisdictions.
I was arrested for DUI and will my mugshot end up online?
If you were booked and taken to the Fourth Avenue Jail or were arrested by the Scottsdale Police Department, yes. Otherwise, the answer is no (my podcast has more information on this common question, or you can download a transcript).
I was arrested for a misdemeanor DUI. Could I be charged with a more serious Felony DUI?
The decision as to what charges to prosecute a defendant on is made by the prosecutors, not the arresting police officers. Therefore, if a prosecutor believes the defendant’s conduct could be charged as a felony they could drop the misdemeanor charges the officer cited the defendant for and instead file felony charges. Examples are when the defendant’s license was suspended, has two DUI convictions in the past 84 months, or the case involved an accident in which someone was seriously injured. For more please see Possible Felony Consequences of a Misdemeanor DUI.
6. What will happen if I am found guilty of DUI
If I am ordered to serve a jail sentence do I actually have to pay to go to jail?
Arizona Law requires the judge to order the defendant to pay for the costs of going to jail, although the judge can waive or reduce the costs the defendant is ordered to pay if it will cause a hardship. Whether to reduce or waive the jail costs is up to the discretion of the judge; some will do it and some refuse. For more information about jail costs in Maricopa County please see my post, Maricopa County Jail Costs Go Up.
If I am ordered to serve a jail sentence can I serve a portion of the time on Home Detention?
The following courts permit a defendant to serve a portion of a jail sentence on Home Detention. Individual courts have different eligibility rules.
Maricopa County:
Fountain Hills Municipal Court
Pinal County:
Apache Junction Municipal Court
The following courts do not permit Home Detention.
Maricopa County:
Maricopa County Justice Courts
If my case involves an accident will I have to pay Restitution, even if I had liability insurance?
If a person is found guilty of a DUI and another person or entity suffers economic loss as a result of the defendant’s actions then the judge is required to order restitution. Restitution and awards for civil damages are determined differently and so a defendant may be ordered to pay restitution for damages even though they had liability insurance. For more information please see Restitution.
Can the judge make me pay for the costs of the investigation of my case?
Arizona law requires a judge to order a defendant to pay for the direct economic loss caused by the conduct which lead to the conviction. As the court of appeal held in State v Linares,2 direct economic loss does not include the normal costs of police investigation, such as overtime for police officers. For more information please see my post, Restitution Award Disallowed For Costs of Investigation.
Do I have to do Substance Abuse Counseling and if so can I choose which agency I do the counseling?
Defendants found guilty of DUI are required as a part of their sentence, do a screening session for possible counseling and then at least 16 hours of DUI Education and possible additional DUI Treatment. Some courts have a preferred counseling agency they require the defendants to use and others do not. The court preferred agencies can be more difficult to work with because they require in-person education and treatment whereas other agencies permit the education and treatment to be done online. The court preferred agencies can charge higher fees than the other agencies. If a defendant is unable to attend the in-person sessions the court preferred agencies have the court issue the defendant an order to show cause making the defendants appear in person and then starting the education and treatment all over again, and of course charging more fees to permit them to do so. if the defendant does not complete the court-ordered screening and education and possible treatment, then the defendant is sentenced to serve more time in jail. If the court where your DUI case is pending has a preferred agency, a way around having to use the preferred agency is to have the screening and counseling done before sentencing in court. Check to see if your DUI is in a court which uses a preferred counseling agency by either going below or to the Arizona DUI Guide.
Can I do screening for alcohol/ substance abuse by telephone?
If a person is found guilty of an Arizona DUI or has their license suspended as a result of an arrest for an Arizona DUI they must undergo a screening session to see how many hours of Substance Abuse/ Alcohol Counseling is required. Note that actual counseling is only required if they are found guilty in court. Fortunately, telephonic screening is permitted by the Arizona Department of Health Services, as I discuss in telephonic-screening-for-az-dui-alcohol-and-substance-abuse-counseling.
Do I have to pay all of my court fines at once?
All fines and assessments are due on the day they are imposed, which means if someone is found guilty of an offense such as DUI, on the date of sentencing. If the court permits and virtually all courts permit a person to make payments on the fine, without the assessment of interest however with a one-time fee of $30- $40. If the person becomes delinquent in the payments the court can assess further costs and even sentence the defendant to jail. For me please see time-payment-plans-for-az-dui-fines-and-assessments.
Can a court seize my tax refund to pay for fines I owe?
Arizona law now allows courts to seize Arizona state income (not Federal) tax refunds if a person owes outstanding fines to any Arizona court. Some courts, such as the Scottsdale Municipal Court now seize Arizona state income tax refunds for that purpose. For more information please see my post, Tax Intercepts for Scottsdale Municipal Court Fines.
What else could go wrong if I am found guilty of DUI?
There are many potential unanticipated collateral consequences of a DUI conviction, such as loss of job, possible loss of custody of children and travel restrictions. For more information please see my post on Collateral Consequences of a DUI Conviction.
7. Arizona MVD practices for DUIs
What Arizona MVD-Authorized Third-Party (ATP) provider locations are closest to Phoenix Arizona?
There are now many Authorized Third Party locations in Phoenix, however, keep in mind ATP’s do charge extra convenience fees and some only offer limited services. You can check which ATP’s are most convenient to you, and what services they provide.
Which Arizona MVD locations are closest to you?
The Arizona MVD has many branches in Phoenix and around the valley, in addition to Third Party providers (see below). You can find the MVD branch most convenient to you, and be sure to choose a location that offers the specific services you require.
Why does the Arizona MVD need a current mailing address for me?
By law, the MVD is required to mail corrective action notices to persons (both drivers and non-Arizona licensed drivers) to whatever address the MVD has on record for that person. As long as the notice is mailed to the address on record the action described in the notice will go into effect even if the person did not actually receive the notice. MVD notices are not generally forwarded to another address and so if the person has moved and given the post office a forwarding address, the notice may not be forwarded to the new address. There is a very limited exception to this rule and that is the person must be able to prove they are having problems with their mail at that address. Keep in mind this is a defense that is easier stated than actually proven and so it is important to keep a current mailing address with the Arizona MVD. For more information please go to, Change of Address With Az MVD.
Can I get a duplicate Arizona driver’s license or temporary I.D. online?
Arizona now allows an Arizona licensed driver to go online and get a temporary duplicate of their Arizona driver’s license or I.D. card. They can even print out a copy of the temporary duplicate license or I.D. For more information please see my post, Duplicate DL at home.
What are the Arizona MVD rules for driver’s license points?
The Arizona MVD imposes points for convictions of various traffic violations on a person’s driver’s license or privilege to drive if they are not licensed in Arizona. For example, DUI and Reckless Driving are 8-point violations, and Speeding is a 3-point violation. There are several different scenarios under which the MVD suspends a license or privilege to drive for points, for example, the accumulation of 13 points within 12 months results in a 3-month points suspension. Restricted licenses are not available for points suspensions. For more information please see my post, Arizona DUI Traffic School TSS Points Suspension.
Can Arizona suspend my driver’s license from another state for an Arizona DUI?
No. Arizona has jurisdiction over Arizona driver’s licenses and privileges to drive and events which take place within Arizona. The out of state driver’s privilege to drive in Arizona may be suspended or revoked for a DUI in an Arizona DUI just as it would for an Arizona driver. Arizona, however, does not have jurisdiction over the driver’s license issued by another state and so is not lawfully authorized to suspend or revoke a license issued by another state. Most states are members of the Interstate Driver’s Compact,3. Upon a suspension or court conviction for a DUI, Arizona is required to notify the other states in the compact (most states including California are compact members) and the state where the driver is licensed will then take whatever action it deems appropriate. For the most part that means at least comply with whatever the Arizona MVD ordered against the privilege to drive in Arizona. For example, if Arizona ordered an interlock for 12 months then the driver must do that as a condition of being able to have the out of state license. However unless and until the home state takes action the suspension or revocation of the Arizona privilege to drive does not have an effect on the status of the out of state license outside of Arizona. Because Arizona does have jurisdiction over what happens in Arizona, a driver whose privilege to drive in Arizona cannot lawfully drive in Arizona with an otherwise valid out of state license.
An officer served me with an Admin Per Se/ Implied Consent Order of Suspension for an Arizona DUI and I did not request a hearing within 15 days. Can I still request a hearing to prevent the suspension from going into effect?
A request for hearing to contest an Admin Per Se / Implied Consent Suspension Order must be filed within 15 days of the service of the notice, which is normally done by an officer as a part of the arrest process. The 15-day time period is not extended to the next business day 15th day falls on a weekend or legal holiday. The MVD does not have the legal authority to grant a hearing to contest the suspension if the request is not received within 15 days of when it is served and so even if the MVD Hearing Office Judges wanted to grant a late hearing request then cannot. Therefore, if the hearing request is not filed within 15 days the Arizona driver’s license or privilege to drive is suspended as a matter of law.
An officer served me with an Admin Per Se/ Implied Consent Order of Suspension for an Arizona DUI, Can the MVD Judge give me a Hardship License?
A common belief in DUI cases is if the driver explains to an MVD Judge that a suspension will work an undue hardship on the driver the judge is authorized to issue a Hardship License. MVD judges in Arizona have more limited powers than judges in some other states and are not authorized to issue Hardship Licenses. An Arizona MVD Executive Hearing Judge by law is only permitted by law to determine whether the driver’s conduct violated state law or not.
For an Implied Consent suspension hearing the only issues 4the judge may consider are:
1. A law enforcement officer had reasonable grounds to believe that the person was driving or was in actual physical control of a motor vehicle in this state either:
(a) While under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs.
(b) If the person is under twenty-one years of age, with spirituous liquor in the person’s body.
2. The person was placed under arrest.
3. The person refused to submit to the test.
4. The person was informed of the consequences of refusal.
For an Admin Per Se suspension hearing the only issues 5are:
1. Whether the officer had reasonable grounds to believe the person was driving or was in actual physical control of a motor vehicle while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or drugs.
2. Whether the person was placed under arrest for a violation of section 4-244, paragraph 34, section 28-1381, section 28-1382 or section 28-1383 or for a violation of title 13, chapter 11 or section 13-1201 or 13-1204 involving a motor vehicle.
3. Whether a test was taken, the results of which indicated any of the following:
(a) An alcohol concentration in the person’s blood or breath at the time the test was administered of either:
(i) 0.08 or more.
(ii) 0.04 or more if the person was driving or in actual physical control of a commercial motor vehicle.
(b) Any drug defined in section 13-3401 or its metabolite in the person’s body except if the person possesses a valid prescription for the drug.
4. Whether the testing method used was valid and reliable.
5. Whether the test results were accurately evaluated.
If the MVD Judge determines the evidence at the hearing proves that these elements by the standard of preponderance of the evidence, which means more likely than not, then the judge upholds the suspension. If the judge determines the elements have not been proven then the suspension is voided and does not go into effect. Thereafter the driver’s eligibility for a restricted license or privilege to drive during the suspension is determined by state law and not the order of an MVD Judge.
8. Arizona Marijuana DUIs
In A Medical Marijuana DUI trial to win must I have an expert witness to testify I was not Impaired?
When someone is charged with a DUI and only has medical marijuana in their body, it is an affirmative defense that the THC from the marijuana was at a level below that which would cause impairment. An affirmative defense requires the defendant must present evidence, either directly or indirectly through cross-examination of the State’s witnesses. In Ishak v. McClennen,6 the court of appeals said the defendant does not need to have an expert witness testify to meet their burden of proving the affirmative defense. For more information please see my post, Expert Not Required for amma affirmative defense.
Can I be arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Marijuana even though I have an AMMA card?
An Arizona Medical Marijuana Cardholder can be arrested for possession of marijuana or even DUI medical marijuana simply based on an odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle. in State v. Sisco, II, 7the Arizona Supreme Court upheld a search warrant based on the odor of marijuana emanating from a storage unit. The defendant argued that a Medical Marijuana cardholder could legally possess marijuana and so the odor alone may be evidence only of lawful possession of marijuana. The Arizona Supreme Court held that possession of marijuana pursuant to a valid medical marijuana card is an affirmative defense and until the defense is proven the possession of marijuana is a crime. Therefore, a search and possible arrest for possession of Marijuana or a Marijuana DUI are possible if based on the odor alone. For more information please see my post, Odor of Marijuana Alone May be Sufficient to Establish Probable Cause for Issuance of Search Warrant.
9. Other Useful Arizona DUI Information
If I am stopped by a police officer and asked to submit to a Preliminary Breath Test (PBT), should I take the test?
In Arizona police officers are permitted to use the results of a preliminary breath test (PBT) for two purposes. First, they can use the results to decide whether the officer has probable cause to arrest the person or not, although there is no absolute cutoff limit, meaning if the results are less than .08% they may still be able to lawfully arrest the person. Second, the officers can use the results to base their decision as to whether or not to impound the vehicle because of a belief the case may be an Extreme DUI (.15% or more), although again a result of .15% is not an absolute limit when making that decision. If the person refuses to submit to the PBT test the officer can use the refusal to submit as a factor in determining probable cause for the arrest and deciding whether to impound the vehicle or not. PBTs, however, are not as reliable as regular breath testing devices and so the results generally cannot be used at trial, one way or another. So as to submit or not, yes, for the most part, it does not hurt to take the test and if the results come back low you may not be arrested. For more go to, should-i-submit-to-a-dui-pbt-or-preliminary-breath-test/.
Can I have a jury trial for my Arizona misdemeanor DUI charges?
In Arizona, both the defendant and the State have a statutory right to a jury trial for misdemeanor DUI cases. If neither party requests a jury trial then the case is tried to the judge alone. In Arizona, a jury’s right to alone decide the facts is very important and so by statute, the judge is prohibited from telling the jury his or her opinion of what the facts are, which is a common practice in other countries such as England. For more information on Misdemeanor DUI trials please listen to my podcast, arizona-dui-jury-trial-procedure.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans’ Court?
Some jurisdictions have a Veterans Court which is different than a regular court. Veterans’ Courts are therapeutic, meaning the purpose of the court is to help veterans/defendants get treatment for any substance abuse or psychiatric problems they may be having, regardless of whether the problems are service-related or not. Veterans’ Courts do not try cases and so they are not for defendants who want to go to trial. The court also helps veterans with any other problems they have such as finding a job or housing. If the veteran receives benefits through the Veterans Administration then they do the required counseling through the VA. If the veteran/defendant does not receive VA benefits they do the counseling through other agencies. All veteran/defendants are eligible for Veterans’ Court, regardless of their discharge status from the military. if the veteran/defendant successfully completes the Veterans’ Court counseling program the prosecutor often makes a better plea offer than would otherwise be offered or in some cases even a dismissal of the charges. Check to see if your DUI is in a court which has a Veterans’ Court by either going below or to the Arizona DUI Guide.
10. Procedures for DUI cases in individual courts
The court where a DUI case is processed can make a big difference in the outcome. In some courts, the prosecutors will make Reckless Driving offers whereas in others they will not. Some courts permit home detention and some do not. Know what you are getting into before going to court by checking out below what are the practices in the court where your case is pending.
Avondale DUI
Was my Avondale DUI case filed in the wrong court?
Cases must be filed in the court where the violation was alleged occurred. The events which are the basis of the charges occurred within the geographical boundaries of the different court then the charges may be dismissed. The geographical boundaries for the Maricopa County Justice Courts can be confusing. If your case was filed in a justice court for Avondale check to see if the case was filed in the right court.
Agua Fria Justice Court Boundaries
White Tank Justice Court Boundaries
Avondale Municipal Court Boundaries
Avondale DUI Vehicle Impound
To find out how to get a vehicle impounded in Avondale please contact the police agency which impounded the vehicle.
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department
If I am sentenced to jail for an Avondale DUI which jail will I serve the sentence in?
Defendants sentenced in the Avondale Municipal Court serve the jail sentence in either the Maricopa County Jail or Avondale City Jail. For misdemeanor cases in all of the Maricopa County Justice Courts in Mesa, the defendants serve the jail sentence in the Maricopa County Jail.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans’ Court for my Avondale DUI?
Neither the Avondale Municipal Court nor any of the Maricopa County Justice Courts for Avondale have a Veterans’ Court.
Do I have to use a court preferred substance abuse counseling agency for my Avondale DUI or can I use an agency of my choice?
The Avondale Municipal Court uses a court preferred counseling agency however also allows defendants to use another agency. The Maricopa County Justice Courts for Avondale usually permit the defendant to choose their own agency.
Buckeye DUI
Was my Buckeye DUI case filed in the wrong court?
Cases must be filed in the court with the correct geographical jurisdiction. This means the events which are the basis of the case must have occurred with the boundaries of the court where the case is filed. If the violation did not occur within the geographical boundaries of the court where the case is filed the charges may be dismissed. The geographical boundaries for the Maricopa County Justice Courts, in particular, can be confusing. Check to see if your Buckeye DUI was filed in the wrong court.
Ironwood Justice Court Boundaries
White Tank Justice Court Boundaries
Buckeye Municipal Court Bounderies
Buckeye DUI Vehicle Impound
To find out how to get a vehicle impounded in Buckeye please contact the police agency which impounded the vehicle.
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department
If I am sentenced to jail for a Buckeye DUI which jail will I serve the sentence in?
For misdemeanor cases in all of the Buckeye courts, the defendants serve the jail sentence in the Maricopa County Jail.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans’ Court for my Buckeye DUI?
Neither the Buckeye Municipal Court nor any of the Maricopa County Justice Courts for Buckeye have a Veterans’ Court.
Do I have to use a court preferred substance abuse counseling agency for my Buckeye DUI or can I use an agency of my choice?
The Buckeye Municipal Court uses court preferred counseling agencies. If the defendant has completed the counseling with another agency before sentencing the court will accept that agency’s counseling and will not refer the defendant to the court’s preferred agency. The Maricopa County Justice Courts for Buckeye usually permit the defendant to choose their own agency.
Chandler DUI
Was my Chandler DUI case filed in the wrong court?
Cases must be filed in the court with the correct geographical jurisdiction. This means the events which are the basis of the case must have occurred with the boundaries of the court where the case is filed. If the violation did not occur within the geographical boundaries of the court where the case is filed the charges may be dismissed. The geographical boundaries for the Maricopa County Justice Courts, in particular, can be confusing. Check to see if your Chandler DUI was filed in the wrong court.
Kryrene Justice Court Boundaries
San Marcos Justice Court Boundaries
San Tan Justice Court Boundaries
University Lakes Justice Court Boundaries
Chandler Municipal Court Boundaries
Chandler DUI Vehicle Impound
To find out how to get a vehicle impounded in Chandler please contact the police agency which impounded the vehicle.
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department
If I am sentenced to jail for a Chandler DUI which jail will I serve the sentence in?
For misdemeanor cases in all of the Chandler courts, the defendants serve the jail sentence in the Maricopa County Jail.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans’ Court for my Chandler DUI?
The Chandler Municipal Court has a Veteran’s Court. None of the Maricopa County Justice Courts for Chandler have a Veterans’ Court.
Do I have to use a court preferred substance abuse counseling agency for my Chandler DUI or can I use an agency of my choice?
The Chandler Municipal Court uses a court preferred counseling agency however will also permit defendants to use another agency. If the defendant has completed the counseling with another agency before sentencing the court will accept that agency’s counseling and will not refer the defendant to the court’s preferred agency. The Maricopa County Justice Courts for Chandler usually permit the defendant to choose their own agency.
Gilbert DUI
Was my Gilbert DUI case filed in the wrong court?
Cases must be filed in the court with the correct geographical jurisdiction. This means the events which are the basis of the case must have occurred with the boundaries of the court where the case is filed. If the violation did not occur within the geographical boundaries of the court where the case is filed the charges may be dismissed. The geographical boundaries for the Maricopa County Justice Courts, in particular, can be confusing. Check to see if your Gilbert DUI was filed in the wrong court.
Highland Justice Court Boundaries
San Marcos Justice Court Boundaries
San Tan Justice Court Boundaries
Gilbert Municipal Court Boundaries
Gilbert DUI Vehicle Impound
To find out how to get a vehicle impounded in Gilbert please contact the police agency which impounded the vehicle.
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department
If I am sentenced to jail for a Gilbert DUI which jail will I serve the sentence in?
For misdemeanor cases in all of the Gilbert courts, the defendants serve the jail sentence in the Maricopa County Jail.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans’ Court for my Gilbert DUI?
The Gilbert Municipal Court has a Veterans Court. None of the Maricopa County Justice Courts for Gilbert have a Veterans Court.
Do I have to use a court preferred substance abuse counseling agency for my Gilbert DUI or can I use an agency of my choice?
The Gilbert Municipal Court uses a court preferred counseling screening agency and generally will not permit defendants to use another screening agency. The Gilbert screening agency will restrict the defendant’s choices for counseling agencies even though that is what the Arizona Department of Health Services already does. If the defendant has completed the counseling with another agency before sentencing the court will accept that agency’s counseling and will not refer the defendant to the court’s preferred agency. The Maricopa County Justice Courts for Gilbert usually permit the defendant to choose their own agency.
Glendale DUI
Was my Glendale DUI case filed in the wrong court?
Cases must be filed in the court with the correct geographical jurisdiction. This means the events which are the basis of the case must have occurred with the boundaries of the court where the case is filed. If the violation did not occur within the geographical boundaries of the court where the case is filed the charges may be dismissed. The geographical boundaries for the Maricopa County Justice Courts, in particular, can be confusing. Check to see if your Glendale DUI was filed in the wrong court.
Agua Fria Justice Court Boundaries
Arrowhead Justice Court Boundaries
County Meadows Justice Court Boundaries
Manistee Justice Court Boundaries
Maryvale Justice Court Boundaries
Glendale Municipal Court Boundaries
Glendale DUI Vehicle Impound
To find out how to get a vehicle impounded in Glendale please contact the police agency which impounded the vehicle.
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department
If I am sentenced to jail for a Glendale DUI which jail will I serve the sentence in?
Defendants sentenced in the Glendale Municipal Court serve the jail sentence in either the Maricopa County Jail or Glendale City Jail. For misdemeanor cases in all of the Maricopa County Justice Courts in Mesa, the defendants serve the jail sentence in the Maricopa County Jail.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans’ Court for my Glendale DUI?
Neither the Glendale Municipal Court nor any of the Maricopa County Justice Courts for Glendale have a Veterans’ Court.
Do I have to use a court preferred substance abuse counseling agency for my Glendale DUI or can I use an agency of my choice?
The Glendale Municipal Court uses a court preferred counseling agency however will also permit defendants to use another agency. If the defendant has completed the counseling with another agency before sentencing the court will accept that agency’s counseling and will not refer the defendant to the court’s preferred agency. The Maricopa County Justice Courts for Glendale usually permit the defendant to choose their own agency.
Goodyear DUI
Was my Goodyear DUI case filed in the wrong court?
Cases must be filed in the court with the correct geographical jurisdiction. This means the events which are the basis of the case must have occurred with the boundaries of the court where the case is filed. If the violation did not occur within the geographical boundaries of the court where the case is filed the charges may be dismissed. The geographical boundaries for the Maricopa County Justice Courts, in particular, can be confusing. Check to see if your Goodyear DUI was filed in the wrong court.
Agua Fria Justice Court Boundaries
White Tank Justice Court Boundaries
Goodyear Municipal Court Boundaries
Goodyear DUI Vehicle Impound
To find out how to get a vehicle impounded in Goodyear please contact the police agency which impounded the vehicle.
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department
If I am sentenced to jail for a Goodyear DUI which jail will I serve the sentence in?
For misdemeanor cases in all of the Goodyear courts, the defendants serve the jail sentence in the Maricopa County Jail.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans’ Court for my Goodyear DUI?
Neither the Goodyear Municipal Court nor any of the Maricopa County Justice Courts for Goodyear have a Veterans’ Court.
Do I have to use a court preferred substance abuse counseling agency for my Goodyear DUI or can I use an agency of my choice?
The Goodyear Municipal Court uses a court preferred counseling agency however may also permit defendants to use another agency. If the defendant has completed the counseling with another agency before sentencing the court will accept that agency’s counseling and will not refer the defendant to the court’s preferred agency. The Maricopa County Justice Courts for Goodyear usually permit the defendant to choose their own agency.
Mesa DUI
Was my Mesa DUI case filed in the wrong court?
Cases must be filed in the court with the correct geographical jurisdiction. This means the events which are the basis of the case must have occurred with the boundaries of the court where the case is filed. If the violation did not occur within the geographical boundaries of the court where the case is filed the charges may be dismissed. The geographical boundaries for the Maricopa County Justice Courts, in particular, can be confusing. Check to see if your Mesa DUI was filed in the wrong court.
East Mesa Justice Court Boundaries
Highland Justice Court Boundaries
North Mesa Justice Court Boundaries
San Marcos Justice Court Boundaries
San Tan Justice Court Boundaries
University Lakes Justice Court Boundaries
West Mesa Justice Court Boundaries
Mesa Municipal Court Boundaries
Mesa DUI Vehicle Impound
To find out how to get a vehicle impounded in Mesa please contact the police agency which impounded the vehicle.
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department
If I am sentenced to jail for a Mesa DUI which jail will I serve the sentence in?
As of July 1, 2018, defendants sentenced to jail in the Mesa Municipal Court no longer serve the sentence in the Maricopa County Jail but rather serve the sentence in a private jail in Florence. For more information please see my post, Mesa City Court Defendants Go To Florence Jail. For misdemeanor cases in the Maricopa County Justice Courts in Mesa, the defendants serve the sentence in the Maricopa County Jail.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans’ Court for my Mesa DUI?
The Mesa Municipal Court has a Veteran’s Court. None of the Maricopa County Justice Courts for Mesa have a Veterans’ Court.
- Do I have to use a court preferred substance abuse counseling agency for my Mesa DUI or can I use an agency of my choice?
The Mesa Municipal Court uses a court preferred counseling agency however will also permit defendants to use another agency. If the defendant has completed the counseling with another agency before sentencing the court will accept that agency’s counseling and will not refer the defendant to the court’s preferred agency. The Maricopa County Justice Courts for Mesa usually permit the defendant to choose their own agency.
Peoria DUI
Was my Peoria DUI case filed in the wrong court?
Cases must be filed in the court with the correct geographical jurisdiction. This means the events which are the basis of the case must have occurred with the boundaries of the court where the case is filed. If the violation did not occur within the geographical boundaries of the court where the case is filed the charges may be dismissed. The geographical boundaries for the Maricopa County Justice Courts, in particular, can be confusing. Check to see if your Peoria DUI was filed in the wrong court.
County Meadows Justice Court Boundaries
Manistee Justice Court Boundaries
North Valley Justice Court Boundaries
Peoria Municipal Court Boundaries
Peoria DUI Vehicle Impound
To find out how to get a vehicle impounded in Peoria please contact the police agency which impounded the vehicle.
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department
If I am sentenced to jail for a Peoria DUI which jail will I serve the sentence in?
For misdemeanor cases in all of the Peoria courts, the defendants serve the jail sentence in the Maricopa County Jail.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans Court for my Peoria DUI?
Neither the Peoria Municipal Court nor any of the Maricopa County Justice Courts for Peoria have a Veterans’ Court.
Do I have to use a court preferred substance abuse counseling agency for my Peoria DUI or can I use an agency of my choice?
The Peoria Municipal Court uses a court preferred counseling agency and may or may not also permit defendants to use another agency. If the defendant has completed the counseling with another agency before sentencing the court will accept that agency’s counseling and will not refer the defendant to the court’s preferred agency. The Maricopa County Justice Courts for Peoria usually permit the defendant to choose their own agency.
Phoenix DUI
Was my Phoenix DUI case filed in the wrong court?
Cases must be filed in the court with the correct geographical jurisdiction. This means the events which are the basis of the case must have occurred with the boundaries of the court where the case is filed. If the violation did not occur within the geographical boundaries of the court where the case is filed the charges may be dismissed. The geographical boundaries for the Maricopa County Justice Courts, in particular, can be confusing. Check to see if your Phoenix DUI was filed in the wrong court.
Agua Fria Justice Court Boundaries
Arcadia-Biltmore Justice Court Boundaries
County Meadows Justice Court Boundaries
Desert Ridge Justice Court Boundaries
Downtown Justice Court Boundaries
Dreamy Draw Justice Court Boundaries
Encanto Justice Court Boundaries
Kryrene Justice Court Boundaries
Manistee Justice Court Boundaries
Maryvale Justice Court Boundaries
McDowell Mountain Justice Court Boundaries
Moon Valley Justice Court Boundaries
North Valley Justice Court Boundaries
South Mountain Justice Court Boundaries
West McDowell Justice Court Boundaries
Phoenix Municipal Court Boundaries
Phoenix DUI Vehicle Impound
To find out how to get a vehicle impounded in Phoenix please contact the police agency which impounded the vehicle.
Arizona State University Police Department
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department
If I am sentenced to jail for a Phoenix DUI which jail will I serve the sentence in?
For misdemeanor cases in all of the Phoenix courts, the defendants serve the jail sentence in the Maricopa County Jail.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans Court for my Phoenix DUI?
The Phoenix Municipal Court has a Veteran’s Court. None of the Maricopa County Justice Courts for Phoenix have a Veterans’ Court.
Do I have to use a court preferred substance abuse counseling agency for my Phoenix DUI or can I use an agency of my choice?
The Phoenix Municipal Court does not use a court preferred counseling agency and so defendants can do the screening and counseling with any agency. The Maricopa County Justice Courts for Phoenix usually permit the defendant to choose their own agency.
Scottsdale DUI
Was my Scottsdale DUI case filed in the wrong court?
Cases must be filed in the court with the correct geographical jurisdiction. This means the events which are the basis of the case must have occurred with the boundaries of the court where the case is filed. If the violation did not occur within the geographical boundaries of the court where the case is filed the charges may be dismissed. The geographical boundaries for the Maricopa County Justice Courts, in particular, can be confusing. Check to see if your Scottsdale DUI was filed in the wrong court.
Arcadia-Biltmore Justice Court Boundaries
Desert Ridge Justice Court Boundaries
McDowell Mountain Justice Court Boundaries
West Mesa Justice Court Boundaries
Scottsdale Municipal Court Boundaries
Scottsdale DUI Vehicle Impound
To find out how to get a vehicle impounded in Scottsdale please contact the police agency which impounded the vehicle.
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department
If I am sentenced to jail for a Scottsdale DUI which jail will I serve the sentence in?
For misdemeanor cases in all of the Scottsdale courts, the defendants serve the jail sentence in the Maricopa County Jail.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans’ Court for my Scottsdale DUI?
The Scottsdale Municipal Court has a Veteran’s Court. None of the Maricopa County Justice Courts for Scottsdale have a Veterans’ Court.
Do I have to use a court preferred substance abuse counseling agency for my Scottsdale DUI or can I use an agency of my choice?
The Scottsdale Municipal Court uses a court preferred screening agency however will also permit defendants to use another agency for screening and counseling. If the defendant has completed the counseling with another agency before sentencing the court will accept that agency’s counseling. The Maricopa County Justice Courts for Scottsdale usually permit the defendant to choose their own agency.
Surprise DUI Lawyer
Was my Surprise DUI case filed in the wrong court?
Cases must be filed in the court with the correct geographical jurisdiction. This means the events which are the basis of the case must have occurred with the boundaries of the court where the case is filed. If the violation did not occur within the geographical boundaries of the court where the case is filed the charges may be dismissed. The geographical boundaries for the Maricopa County Justice Courts, in particular, can be confusing. Check to see if your Surprise DUI was filed in the wrong court.
Arrowhead Justice Court Boundaries
Hassayampa Justice Court Boundaries
North Valley Justice Court Boundaries
Surprise Municipal Court Boundaries
If I am sentenced to jail for a Surprise DUI which jail will I serve the sentence in?
Surprise DUI Vehicle Impound
To find out how to get a vehicle impounded in Surprise please contact the police agency which impounded the vehicle.
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department
For misdemeanor cases in all of the Surprise courts, the defendants serve the jail sentence in the Maricopa County Jail.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans Court for my Surprise DUI?
Neither the Surprise Municipal Court nor any of the Maricopa County Justice Courts for Surprise have a Veterans Court.
Do I have to use a court preferred substance abuse counseling agency for my Surprise DUI or can I use an agency of my choice?
The Surprise Municipal Court uses a court preferred counseling agency however will also permit defendants to use another agency. If the defendant has completed the counseling with another agency before sentencing the court will accept that agency’s counseling and will not refer the defendant to the court’s preferred agency. The Maricopa County Justice Courts for Surprise usually permit the defendant to choose their own agency.
Tempe DUI
Was my Tempe DUI case filed in the wrong court?
Cases must be filed in the court with the correct geographical jurisdiction. This means the events which are the basis of the case must have occurred with the boundaries of the court where the case is filed. If the violation did not occur within the geographical boundaries of the court where the case is filed the charges may be dismissed. The geographical boundaries for the Maricopa County Justice Courts, in particular, can be confusing. Check to see if your Tempe DUI was filed in the wrong court.
Arcadia-Biltmore Justice Court Boundaries
Downtown Justice Court Boundaries
Kryrene Justice Court Boundaries
South Mountain Justice Court Boundaries
University Lakes Justice Court Boundaries
West Mesa Justice Court Boundaries
Tempe Municipal Court Boundaries
Tempe DUI Vehicle Impound
To find out how to get a vehicle impounded in Tempe please contact the police agency which impounded the vehicle.
Arizona Department of Public Safety
Arizona State University Police Department
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Department
Arizona Department of Public Safety
If I am sentenced to jail for a Tempe DUI which jail will I serve the sentence in?
Defendants sentenced in the Tempe Municipal Court serve the jail sentence in either the Maricopa County Jail or Tempe City Jail, 120 East Fifth Street, Tempe. For all cases in all of the Maricopa County Justice Courts in Tempe the defendants serve the jail sentence in the Maricopa County Jail.
I am a Veteran. Can I have my case transferred to a Veterans Court for my Tempe DUI?
The Tempe Municipal Court has a Veterans Court. None of the Maricopa County Justice Courts for Tempe have a Veterans Court.
Do I have to use a court preferred substance abuse counseling agency for my Tempe DUI or can I use an agency of my choice?
The Tempe Municipal Court uses a court preferred screening agency however permits the defendant to do the education and treatment with any agency. If the defendant has completed the screening with another agency before sentencing the court will accept that agency’s screening and will not refer the defendant to the court’s preferred screening agency. The Maricopa County Justice Courts for Tempe usually permit the defendant to choose their own agency.
A Step By Step Informational & Educational Guide to an Arizona Misdemeanor DUI
Serving All of Arizona including Gila• Maricopa• Mohave •Navajo •Pinal • Yavapai Counties and the cities of Apache Junction • Avondale • Buckeye • Bullhead City • Camp Verde • Casa Grande • Chandler • Chino Valley • Cottonwood • El Mirage • Florence • Fountain Hills • Gilbert • Glendale • Globe • Goodyear • Holbrook • Kingman • Lake Havasu • Maricopa • Mayer • Mesa • Payson • Paradise Valley • Peoria • Phoenix • Pinetop • Prescott • Scottsdale • Sedona • Show Low • Tempe • Tolleson • Wickenburg