What Is a DUI Citation in Arizona?
Being issued a DUI citation in Arizona can feel overwhelming—but understanding what it means and how to respond is critical to protecting your rights and your future. At Rideout Law Group, we help clients across Arizona fight DUI charges and navigate the legal system with clarity and confidence. A DUI citation is a formal notice that you are being charged with driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This citation often comes after a roadside stop or sobriety checkpoint, where law enforcement determines probable cause based on your behavior, breathalyzer results, or field sobriety tests.
In Arizona, DUI charges can fall into several categories:
- Standard DUI: Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08% or more
- Extreme DUI: BAC of 0.15% or higher
- Aggravated DUI: Includes repeat offenses, DUI with a suspended license, or DUI with a minor in the vehicle
- Drug DUI: Operating a vehicle under the influence of a controlled substance
All DUI offenses in Arizona carry severe penalties, even for first-time offenders.
Penalties for a DUI Citation in Arizona
Arizona has some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation. Depending on the charge, you could face:
- Mandatory jail time (even for first-time DUI)
- Driver’s license suspension or revocation
- Ignition interlock device installation
- Fines and court costs
- Probation
- Alcohol or drug education classes
An aggravated DUI, which is a felony, can lead to prison time and long-term loss of rights.
What Happens After You’re Cited
Once you’re issued a DUI citation, your legal process begins immediately:
- Court Date: The citation will include a mandatory appearance date. Missing it can lead to additional charges or a warrant for your arrest.
- License Suspension: The Arizona MVD may begin an administrative suspension, separate from any court-imposed penalties.
- Criminal Proceedings: Your case will move through the local court system, beginning with arraignment and possibly progressing to trial.
It’s essential to have an experienced DUI attorney involved from the start to challenge the citation, protect your record, and potentially reduce or dismiss charges.
Defending Against a DUI Citation
Many DUI citations can be contested. At Rideout Law Group, we examine every detail, including:
- Whether the stop was lawful
- Accuracy and calibration of breathalyzer equipment
- Administration of field sobriety tests
- Chain of custody for blood or urine samples
- Violations of your rights during arrest
A strong defense can lead to reduced penalties or even dismissal of charges entirely.
Why Choose Rideout Law Group
Our DUI attorneys have decades of combined courtroom experience across Arizona—from Maricopa to Mohave County. We bring deep legal insight, former prosecutor experience, and a commitment to defending your freedom and driving privileges.
Whether you’re cited in Scottsdale, Lake Havasu, Phoenix, or beyond, we offer same-day consultations and a client-first approach you can trust.
Take Action Now
If you’ve received a DUI citation in Arizona, don’t wait. Contact Rideout Law Group today for a confidential, no-obligation consultation. The sooner we begin, the better your chances of a favorable outcome.
📞 Call Today:
- Scottsdale: (480) 584-3328
- Lake Havasu: (928) 854-8181
- Toll-Free: (833) 854-8181
This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. For legal guidance specific to your situation, please contact a licensed attorney at Rideout Law Group.