Serious Charges, Serious Defense
Arizona has some of the strictest DUI laws in the country, and a third DUI offense can result in felony charges, extended jail time, and long-term impacts on your future. If you’re facing your third DUI in Arizona—whether in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu, or anywhere in the state—it’s essential to understand what’s at stake and how to protect your rights.
What Constitutes a Third DUI in Arizona?
Under Arizona law, a third DUI offense typically occurs when someone is arrested for driving under the influence within seven years of two prior DUI convictions. If this happens, the new charge is often treated as an Aggravated DUI, a Class 4 felony under A.R.S. § 28-1383.
This classification applies regardless of whether your prior offenses occurred in Arizona or another state, as long as they’re considered comparable under Arizona law.
Penalties for a Third DUI in Arizona
The consequences for a third DUI are severe and life-altering:
- Mandatory Prison Time: A minimum of 4 months in prison, not jail.
- Fines and Fees: Over $4,000 in fines and assessments.
- License Revocation: Automatic driver’s license revocation for at least one year.
- Ignition Interlock Device: Mandatory installation after license reinstatement.
- Felony Record: A felony conviction affects job opportunities, housing, and gun rights.
If aggravating factors are present—such as a child in the car, a very high BAC, or causing an accident—the penalties can increase significantly.
Defenses Against a Third DUI Charge
Even with two prior convictions, you are not automatically guilty of a third DUI. At Rideout Law Group, our attorneys investigate every aspect of the arrest, including:
- Whether the traffic stop was lawful
- Accuracy of breath or blood test results
- Calibration and maintenance of testing equipment
- Chain of custody for blood evidence
- Constitutional violations during your arrest
Our team has successfully challenged DUI charges by exposing errors, procedural flaws, or by negotiating reduced charges that avoid prison time.
Why You Need a DUI Attorney for a Third Offense
A third DUI charge is a turning point. You need an attorney who understands Arizona DUI law, has experience in both felony courts and municipal DUI defense, and can aggressively advocate on your behalf. At Rideout Law Group, our team includes former prosecutors and trial-tested attorneys who fight to protect your future.
We serve clients in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu, Phoenix, Tempe, and beyond—with offices in both Maricopa County and Mohave County.
What to Do If You’re Arrested for a Third DUI in Arizona
- Do not speak to police without legal representation.
- Request a DUI attorney immediately.
- Preserve any evidence (e.g., receipts, witness names, dashcam footage).
- Contact Rideout Law Group for a confidential case review.
Get Trusted DUI Defense in Arizona
If you or a loved one is facing a third DUI in Arizona, don’t wait. The sooner you contact our firm, the more options you may have. Our offices in Scottsdale and Lake Havasu City provide experienced, strategic DUI defense for clients throughout the state.
📞 Call us today at (480) 584-3328 or (928) 854-8181 for a free consultation.