First-Time DUI in Tolleson

Any arrest and conviction for driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious legal matter. The police will aggressively pursue arrests for DUI regardless of your previous criminal history. Understanding the legal options available is important for anyone facing a first-time DUI in Tolleson.

A relentless attorney can help you fight the charges and minimize the impact on your way of life. Reach out to the former prosecutors, now dedicated defense lawyers, at Grand Canyon Law Group.

Criminal History of DUI Convictions

Determining a person’s first DUI arrest seems straightforward on the surface. This determination is important, as first-time offenders will generally face lighter sentences. However, a person with prior convictions could be treated as if their current arrest for DUI was their first, depending on how old those prior convictions are.

When prosecutors consider a DUI charge, they look at only a portion of the accused’s criminal history. Prior misdemeanor convictions are only counted if they occurred in the last seven years. As our Tolleson attorneys can explain, this “look back period” could allow a person with more than one previous conviction to be treated as a first-time offender if their record has been clear in recent years.

Penalties for a First-Time DUI in Tolleson

The potential consequences for DUI are significant, even for a first-time offender. A conviction can come with criminal sentencing, administrative penalties, and collateral consequences.

Criminal Penalties

For many, the primary concern with a DUI conviction is the possibility of jail time. A first DUI can come with up to six months of incarceration, although many convicted people can get their sentence suspended in exchange for drug or alcohol counseling. On top of jail time, monetary fines and other expenses are also common.

Administrative Penalties

In addition to a criminal case that could result in jail time or fines, a DUI charge may lead to administrative proceedings. Following an arrest, the Department of Transportation may suspend a person’s license for 90 days—even without being convicted. A skilled lawyer at our firm can help fight this suspension alongside the criminal case.

Collateral Consequences

There are also collateral consequences of any criminal case. Being convicted of DUI can damage a person’s reputation and cost them their current and future employment. Having a criminal record could have other consequences, including impacting immigration or custody hearings. Our Tolleson attorneys work to minimize the effect of a first-time DUI on a person’s life and prospects.

Talk to a Tolleson Attorney About a First-Time DUI Arrest

You should never take a DUI charge lightly, even if this is the first time you have ever been arrested. A conviction could impact your life in ways you might not expect. To protect yourself moving forward, you need guidance from experienced legal counsel.

It is never a good idea to face these charges alone. When charged with a first-time DUI in Tolleson, let Grand Canyon Law Group walk you through your options and inform you of your rights. We believe you have a future worth fighting for. Contact us today to discuss a tailored defense strategy for your case.