Phoenix considers driving under the influence of illicit drugs, and even improperly used prescription drugs, to be just as serious as alcohol. Phoenix Revised Statute A.R.S. 28-1381 states that it is illegal to drive, or physically be in control of a vehicle:
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While under the influence of any drug, vapor releasing substance containing a toxic substance, and any combination of alcohol and drugs, and if a person is impaired to the slightest degree.
Also, if you have any controlled substance in your body, and whether or not you show physical symptoms of being impaired by it, you can still be arrested for a DUI drug crime in Phoenix.
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This means for some drugs, like marijuana, that can remain in your system for a month or more after ingestion, you can be arrested for a DUI drug crime in Phoenix weeks after being actively under its influence.
Being arrested for a DUI drug crime can be a very frightening and overwhelming experience. Furthermore, the serious nature of DUI drug crimes in Phoenix makes it extremely important to consult an experienced, reputable defense attorney immediately upon being charged with a DUI drug crime of any type. You should also seek out an attorney who will aggressively fight to make sure your rights are upheld throughout the entire legal process.
What are the Common DUI Drug Crime Substances in Phoenix?
In Phoenix, some of the most common cases involve having the following drugs in a defendant’s system:
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Marijuana.
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Cocaine.
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Methamphetamine.
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MDMA or Ecstasy.
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Heroin.
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Spice.
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Opiate painkillers including oxycodone, hydrocodone and Oxycontin.
It is important to understand that even if you have a valid prescription for medical marijuana, as well as any opioid painkillers, you can still be arrested and charged with a DUI drug crime if you are driving under the influence of these prescription medications.
Penalties for DUI Drug Crimes in Phoenix
In Phoenix, DUI drug crimes can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. First time offenders are generally charged with misdemeanors, unless aggravated circumstances exist.
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A.R.S. 13-707 states that a first time offender convicted of a DUI drug crime can be sentenced to up to six months in jail, and receive fines of up to $2500 plus surcharges.
If you are convicted of a DUI drug crime in Phoenix, you also face:
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Mandatory drug counseling.
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Revocation of your license for one year.
Additional DUI Drug Crimes Considerations in Phoenix
Please keep in mind that the penalties above are only for the act of driving under the influence of drugs. Various other factors can result in increased fines, added, jail or even prison time, including:
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The presence of illicit drugs in your vehicle or on your person.
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The presence of weapons in your car or on your person while you are arrested for a DUI drug crime.
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Any prior DUI drug convictions, as well as any prior felony convictions for drugs.
If any of these factors are present, you can face compounded charges and thus, much harsher sentencing penalties.
Trust Phoenix DUI Attorney With Your DUI Drug Crime Defense in Phoenix
The consequences for being arrested for, and convicted of, DUI drug crimes in Phoenix are very severe, and can negatively impact your life for many years. Therefore, it is essential to consult a defense attorney with proven experience defending DUI drug crimes of all types and severities. We will not stop fighting for your rights, by making sure that every possible legal option and defense strategy is available to you. If you are facing any kind of DUI drug charge in Phoenix, contact us today for a private, no obligation consultation at 480-900-5177.
