Step 1: The Arrest

When you are stopped by Phoenix law enforcement on suspicion of DUI, the officer may conduct field sobriety tests and administer a breathalyzer. If they believe you are impaired, you will be arrested and taken into custody.

At this point, officers will read you your rights and may require additional testing, such as a blood test, to confirm your blood alcohol concentration (BAC).

Step 2: Booking and Initial Detention

After arrest, you’ll go through the booking process, which includes:

• Recording your personal details

• Taking fingerprints and a mugshot

• Documenting formal DUI charges

Depending on the circumstances, you may remain in custody until your initial court appearance or until bail is posted.

Step 3: Release Options

In Arizona, DUI defendants have several possible release options:

• Posting Bail — Paying a set amount to secure release until court

• Own Recognizance (OR) Release — The judge allows you to leave without bail, based on trust you’ll return

• Third-Party Release — A family member, friend, or bail bondsman helps secure your release

Step 4: Court Appearances

• Initial Appearance: Usually within 24 hours of arrest, where the judge explains the charges, sets conditions of release, and schedules future hearings.

• Arraignment: Here you’ll enter a plea — guilty, not guilty, or no contest. Most people plead not guilty initially, giving their attorney time to review evidence and prepare a defense.

Step 5: Administrative Penalties

A DUI in Arizona carries administrative consequences from the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) in addition to criminal charges. Your driver’s license may be suspended for 90 days to one year, even before your court case concludes.

👉 Important: You only have 15 days from your arrest to request an MVD hearing to fight the suspension.

Step 6: Building Your Defense

Hiring an experienced Phoenix DUI attorney is essential. A lawyer can:

• Review police reports and testing procedures

• Challenge whether the stop or arrest was legal

• Question BAC test accuracy or calibration of devices

• Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced penalties

Common defenses include medical conditions, improper police procedure, or faulty testing equipment.

Step 7: Plea Bargain or Trial

Depending on the strength of the evidence:

• You may accept a plea deal to reduce charges or penalties

• Or, you can take your case to trial if you and your attorney believe you have a strong defense

Step 8: Sentencing and Penalties

If convicted of DUI in Arizona, penalties are strict and may include:

• Fines and Court Fees — often thousands of dollars

• Mandatory Jail Time — even first-time offenders face at least 1 day in jail

• License Suspension or Revocation

• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) installation

• Alcohol Education or Treatment Programs

Repeat or aggravated DUIs carry even harsher penalties, including longer jail terms and higher fines.

Step 9: Long-Term Consequences

A DUI conviction in Arizona can impact your life beyond the courtroom:

• Difficulty finding jobs requiring driving or clean records

• Higher car insurance premiums

• Damage to reputation and personal relationships

Step 10: Moving Forward

Life after a DUI doesn’t end at sentencing. You can take proactive steps to recover:

• Complete all court-ordered requirements

• Seek counseling or substance abuse support if needed

• Learn from the experience to make safer choices in the future