DUI/DWI records are public records in Arizona and can be accessed by anyone. However, there are some restrictions on who can access these records and how they can be used.
Having a DUI/DWI on your record can have serious consequences. It can make it difficult to get a job, rent an apartment, or obtain insurance. In some cases, a DUI/DWI conviction can result in jail time. If you are facing charges of DUI/DWI, it is important to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and fight for your rights.
What Is DUI?
In Arizona, DUI (driving under the influence) is defined as operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. This includes prescription and over-the-counter medications as well as illegal drugs.
What Is DWI?
DWI (driving while intoxicated) is a more serious offense than DUI. In Arizona, DWI is defined as operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher.
What Includes DUI/DWI Records in Arizona?
If you are found guilty of driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Arizona, your DUI/DWI record will be created. This DUI/DWI record will include information such as your name, date of birth, driver’s license number, and other identifying information. Additionally, your DUI/DWI record will list the offense for which you were convicted, the date of conviction, and any sentence imposed.
DUI/DWI records in Arizona include information about arrests, convictions, and sentences for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These records can be used by employers, landlords, and others to make decisions about hiring, housing, and other opportunities.
For example, employers may not use DUI/DWI records to discriminate against job applicants or employees. Landlords may not use DUI/DWI records to deny housing to people with a prior conviction. And courts may not use DUI/DWI records to sentence people convicted of other crimes.
How To Request DUI/DWI Records in Arizona?
Individuals can request DUI/DWI records from the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS). The DPS maintains a central repository of all DUI/DWI records in the state.
To request a DUI/DWI record, individuals must complete and submit a Record Request Form to the DPS. The form is available online on the DPS website.
In addition to the completed form, individuals must also submit a $5 fee for each record requested. Fees can be paid by check or money order made payable to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
Once the completed form and fee have been submitted, the DPS will process the request and mail the DUI/DWI record to the individual within 10 business days.
For more information on DUI/DWI records in Arizona, or to request a DUI/DWI record, please visit the Arizona Department of Public Safety website.
How Long Will a DUI/DWI Stay on My Record?
In Arizona, a DUI/DWI stays on your criminal record forever. There is no way to have it removed or sealed. This means that potential employers, landlords, and others will be able to see it when they conduct a background check.
Sealed or Expunged DUI/DWI Record
DUI/DWI records can be sealed or expunged in some circumstances. This means that the records are not available to the public and cannot be used for employment, housing, or other purposes. Expunging or sealing DUI/DWI records is a complicated process and requires the help of an attorney.
If you have been convicted of DUI/DWI in Arizona, you may be able to get your DUI/DWI record expunged. Expungement is the process of sealing your criminal record so that it cannot be viewed by the general public. To be eligible for expungement, you must meet certain criteria, such as completing your sentence and paying all fines and restitution. An experienced criminal defense attorney can assist you in determining if you are eligible for expungement and help you through the process.
What Are the Penalties for DUI/DWI in Arizona?
If you are convicted of DUI in Arizona, the penalties you face will depend on many factors, including your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), whether you have any prior DUI offenses, whether anyone was injured as a result of your DUI, and more.
Generally speaking, first-time DUI offenders in Arizona can expect to face the following penalties:
- A mandatory minimum jail sentence of 10 days
- Fines and fees totaling up to $1,900
- Suspension of your driver’s license for 90 days
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle for at least 6 months
If you refuse to submit to a chemical test or if your BAC is .15% or higher, you will face enhanced penalties, which can include up to 180 days in jail, a 1-year driver’s license suspension, and fines and fees totaling up to $3,800.
If you are convicted of a second DUI offense within 7 years of your first offense, you will face the following penalties:
- A mandatory minimum jail sentence of 30 days
- Fines and fees totaling up to $3,000
- Suspension of your driver’s license for 1 year
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle for at least 12 months
If you are convicted of a third DUI offense within 7 years of your first offense, you will face the following penalties:
- A mandatory minimum jail sentence of 4 months
- Fines and fees totaling up to $4,000
- Suspension of your driver’s license for 1 year
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle for at least 18 months
If you are convicted of a fourth DUI offense within 7 years of your first offense, you will face the following penalties:
- A mandatory minimum jail sentence of 8 months
- Fines and fees totaling up to $5,500
- Suspension of your driver’s license for 3 years
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle for at least 24 months
If you are convicted of a DUI and someone is injured as a result, you will face the following penalties:
- A mandatory minimum jail sentence of 30 days
- Fines and fees totaling up to $5,000
- Suspension of your driver’s license for 1 year
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle for at least 12 months
If you are convicted of a DUI and someone is killed as a result, you will face the following penalties:
- A mandatory minimum prison sentence of 5 years
- Fines and fees totaling up to $10,000
- Suspension of your driver’s license for 3 years
- Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle for at least 12 months
Keep in mind that these are just the mandatory minimum penalties. If you are facing enhanced penalties, such as those for high BAC or refusal to submit to a chemical test, your penalties will be even more severe.
If you have been charged with DUI in Arizona, it is important to speak with an experienced DUI attorney who can help you understand the charges against you and the options available to you. An attorney can also help you fight for a reduction or dismissal of the charges and, if necessary, represent you at trial. The penalties for DUI/DWI in Arizona are harsh, and the consequences of a conviction can be life-changing.
Arizona DUI/DWI Laws
Arizona DUI/DWI laws are some of the toughest in the country. If you are convicted of a DUI/DWI in Arizona, your record will show it. This can have serious consequences for your future, including the loss of your driver’s license, higher insurance rates, and difficulty finding employment. If you have been arrested for DUI/DWI in Arizona, it is important to understand the law and what options you have.