Know Your Charges—Arizona’s DUI Laws Go Beyond the Basics
Arizona enforces some of the harshest DUI laws in the nation. For those arrested in cities like Scottsdale, Lake Havasu City, or anywhere across the state, understanding the distinctions between Extreme DUI and Super Extreme DUI is essential. These enhanced charges carry far more severe penalties than a standard DUI—and the legal consequences escalate quickly.
If you or a loved one has been charged, Rideout Law Group’s experienced Arizona DUI attorneys are here to help.
Arizona DUI Categories Explained
In Arizona, DUI charges are largely determined by blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of driving. The higher the BAC, the more severe the penalties.
Standard DUI
- BAC: 0.08% to 0.149%
- Serious but generally results in lower fines and jail time than Extreme or Super Extreme DUI
Extreme DUI
- BAC: 0.15% to 0.199%
Super Extreme DUI
- BAC: 0.20% or higher
Even first-time offenders can face jail time. But Extreme and Super Extreme DUI charges come with mandatory incarceration, steep fines, and long-term consequences.
What is an Extreme DUI in Arizona?
An Extreme DUI is charged when your BAC is 0.15% to 0.199%. This level of impairment signals significant risk and triggers enhanced penalties.
Penalties for First-Time Extreme DUI:
- 30 consecutive days in jail (minimum)
- $2,500+ in fines and surcharges
- 12-month ignition interlock device installation
- Mandatory alcohol screening and treatment
- Driver’s license suspension
Legal defenses may include challenging the breathalyzer accuracy, unlawful police stops, or negotiating for alternative sentencing options.
What is a Super Extreme DUI in Arizona?
A Super Extreme DUI involves a BAC of 0.20% or higher—a level considered dangerously impaired and triggering some of Arizona’s harshest DUI penalties.
Penalties for First-Time Super Extreme DUI:
- Minimum 45 days in jail
- $3,200+ in fines and assessments
- 18-month ignition interlock requirement
- Mandatory alcohol education and treatment
- Extended driver’s license suspension
Because of the seriousness, prosecutors in Maricopa County and Mohave County often pursue these cases aggressively.
Key Differences: Extreme vs. Super Extreme DUI
| Factor | Extreme DUI | Super Extreme DUI |
| BAC Level | 0.15% – 0.199% | 0.20% or higher |
| Minimum Jail Time | 30 days | 45 days |
| Fines & Fees | $2,500+ | $3,200+ |
| Ignition Interlock | 12 months | 18 months |
| Court Scrutiny | High | Extremely High |
Even a slight increase in BAC can result in additional weeks of jail time and longer penalties.
Can These Charges Be Reduced?
Yes. An experienced Arizona DUI defense attorney may reduce your charges through:
- Challenging probable cause for the traffic stop
- Improper calibration or use of breath testing equipment
- Blood draw errors
- Constitutional violations
- Using rising BAC defenses
At Rideout Law Group, we thoroughly investigate your case for any possible legal or procedural errors that could lead to a dismissal or charge reduction.
Why You Need a DUI Lawyer in Arizona
Extreme and Super Extreme DUI charges are not routine DUIs. These are complex criminal cases that require strategic defense and knowledge of local courts, judges, and prosecutors.
Rideout Law Group has successfully represented DUI clients in:
- Scottsdale, Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler
- Lake Havasu City, Kingman, Bullhead City
- Maricopa and Mohave Counties
With decades of combined trial experience and former prosecutor insight, our attorneys are equipped to protect your rights.
Schedule a Confidential DUI Consultation Today
If you’ve been arrested for an Extreme or Super Extreme DUI in Arizona, don’t wait. Early legal intervention can make all the difference in your outcome.
📍 Scottsdale Office
11111 N Scottsdale Rd, Suite 225, Scottsdale, AZ 85254
📞 (480) 584-3328
📍 Lake Havasu City Office
2800 Sweetwater Ave, Suite A104, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86406
📞 (928) 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.