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Misdemeanor DUI

Phoenix Misdemeanor DUI Attorney

Defending Against First-Time DUI, Super Extreme DUI, & Everything Between

If you have been arrested for DUI in Phoenix, Scottsdale, or elsewhere in Arizona, turn to The Koplow Law Firm to keep your mandatory at a minimum. Whether it is your first arrest or you have had a run-in with the law for DUI before, I can help you navigate the process and work to protect your driving privileges, reputation, and freedom.

Despite common perceptions, DUI cases are not simply open and shut. I have over two decades of experience combatting prosecutors’ arguments and evidence by highlighting constitutional rights violations and forensic flaws. I see what others do not and use these insights to devise and implement creative defense strategies. Proudly, thousands have counted on myself and my team for their defenses. When you need a misdemeanor DUI lawyer in Phoenix, make The Koplow Law Firm your first call. 

Request a consultation to discuss your situation and how I can help you. Call (602) 560-7837 or get in touch online.

What Is Misdemeanor DUI?

A first-time DUI is a Class 1 misdemeanor, according to the Arizona Revised Statutes. You could be charged with this offense if you were found to be operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08%. That threshold drops to 0.04% for those driving commercial vehicles. It is illegal for those under 21 to drive with any BAC. 

You may also be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor for DUI if you are under the influence of drugs. This includes illegal substances like cocaine and marijuana, as well as prescription drugs that impair your ability to drive a vehicle safely.

What Other Offenses Count as Misdemeanor DUI?

Many other DUI-related offenses are Class 1 misdemeanors, including the following:

  • A second DUI within seven years of the first
  • An extreme DUI, which is driving with a BAC of 0.15% or higher
  • A super extreme DUI, which is driving with a BAC of 0.20% or higher
  • DUI with a commercial driver's license (CDL)

The Penalties for Misdemeanor DUI in Phoenix

The penalties for misdemeanor DUI are vast, and it depends on the circumstances surrounding your case. For a first-time, standard DUI, you could face a minimum of 10 consecutive days in jail and a fine of no less than $1,250. That is not all. 

The state also requires:

  • Participation in alcohol/drug screening, treatment, and education 
  • Use of an ignition interlock device (IID) for one year
  • Community service

While many other misdemeanor DUI offenses (second-time, extreme, etc.) fall under the same criminal classification as a first-time, standard DUI, they carry more significant penalties. For example, a second DUI carries a minimum of 90 consecutive days in jail and at least $3,000 in fines. Learn more by visiting our Misdemeanor Penalties page. 

Our Services

See How We’ve Helped Others

Trusted by Clients Across Arizona
    "Great trial attorney."

    Lawrence is tenacious, relentless, and extremely passionate about his clients and their cases. He leaves no stone unturned in his investigations, and his cross examinations are grueling. His knowledge of the science of DUI's and the testing procedures is unsurpassed. Great trial attorney.

    - Jesse S.
    "Unquestionably one of the top DUI/ criminal defense attorneys in Arizona."
    As a practicing attorney in DUI and criminal defense, and as a former prosecutor who went against Lawrence on several cases, I can attest that the State knows they will have their hands full when Lawrence is on the case.
    - Ryan M.
    "You cannot go wrong with Lawrence."

    Great attorney! Lawrence thinks outside the box and goes above and beyond for his clients and the legal community at large. If you are looking for aggressive representation, you cannot go wrong with Lawrence.

    - Charity C.
    "No other lawyer knows the science of DUI like Lawrence does."
    Lawrence is the best lawyer I have ever met. If your career is on the line then he is the guy. No other lawyer knows the science of DUI like Lawrence does. I will be forever grateful!
    - Greg S.
    "It was miracle!"

    It was miracle!... A lot of people don't really understand the benefit of having an attorney who used to be a prosecutor. They know all the little tricks and scare tactics the state has as opposed to just hiring an attorney who is a little fish in a big pond.

    - Joe C.
    "One of the best."
    Lawrence Koplow is one of the best DUI and vehicular defense attorneys in the state of Arizona. Anyone would be extremely fortunate to have him as their advocate.
    - Jack L.
    "You cannot go wrong with Lawrence."
    Lawrence thinks outside the box and goes above and beyond for his clients and the legal community at large. If you are looking for aggressive representation, you cannot go wrong with Lawrence.
    - Charity C.
    "Nobody knows the court and laws better than him."
    Lawrence represents very high-profile clients who greatly depend on a good outcome, and this guy will deliver. This is a prosecutors' worse nightmare, and it should be that way if you need an attorney.
    - David E.
Experience Matters in DUI Defense
With over 20 years of experience, including time as a former DUI prosecutor, we know how to navigate the system to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients. Get started today.
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Will My License Be Suspended?

In many cases, yes. Even if you have not been convicted of DUI, your license could be suspended. Whether this happens largely depends on if you submit to a breathalyzer or blood test. Should you refuse these tests, the state could suspend your license for up to a year. If you take either test and fail, your license could be suspended for 90 days or more. 

It may seem like you cannot avoid license suspension, but this is not necessarily true. You have 15 days from your arrest to request a hearing with the Arizona Department of Transportation Motor Vehicle Division (MVD). At this hearing, you can fight the suspension. 

Do I Need an Attorney for Misdemeanor DUI?

You are not required by law to hire an attorney if you are facing a charge for misdemeanor DUI. But why take the risk? The prosecuting team is out to obtain a conviction and has the advantage of legal knowledge and experience. Remember: you do not have to face this battle alone. 

I can level the playing field. Through tireless efforts and innovative strategies, I have secured numerous positive outcomes for my clients and am prepared to work to do the same for you. As a client of The Koplow Law Firm, you can expect direct support from a dedicated Phoenix misdemeanor DUI attorney who goes where other lawyers will not and constantly refines his defense process.  

Learn more about my services and how I might approach your case in a consultation. To request yours, call (602) 560-7837 or contact The Koplow Law Firm online.

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