Driving under the influence, or DUI, is a crime that is taken very seriously in Arizona. The penalties for a DUI conviction can have a dramatic effect on an individual’s life. The courts will consider various factors when sentencing to ensure a fair and appropriate punishment, including the circumstances surrounding the case and the defendant’s criminal history.
The concept of a breathalyzer test – a test that can measure intoxication levels by analyzing blood alcohol content – has been around since the 1920s. The first iteration of a breathalyzer device, the “Drunkometer,” was introduced in 1954. Since then, breathalyzers have undergone significant changes due to advances in technology.
Having a criminal record with a DUI (driving under the influence) conviction can affect your career, your eligibility for housing and financial aid, and your reputation. Until recently, it was not possible to expunge a DUI conviction in Arizona. However, new laws now allow qualifying individuals to clear their records through expungement.
If you believe there has been a mistake during the court process that led to a judgment you do not agree with as a criminal defendant in Arizona, your criminal defense attorney can help you file an appeal. An appeal has the power to reverse the trial court’s decision or grant you a new trial.
As a resident of Arizona, it can be difficult to keep up with the constantly changing laws and new bills regarding marijuana. Currently, the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act only legalizes the possession of 2.5 ounces or less of marijuana for medicinal purposes, and only if you have a physician’s written certification.
