If you are stopped by the authorities for suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI) in Arizona, there is a specific series of questions and events that usually follows the stop.
- You will be asked to provide your driver’s license and registration
- You may be asked it you had anything to drink that night. Simply say I respectfully would rather not answer that question without the advice of my attorney.
- You may be asked to step outside the vehicle and do some simple physical coordination activities – field tests – to see if you appear intoxicated. You have the right to refuse to take these tests. If you do agree to take this test, let the officer know that you would like to record the test on your phone.
- You may be asked to permit the officer to search your vehicle. You have the right to refuse this search as well. You may be asked other questions, and you have the right to refuse to answer and to request an attorney.
- You may be asked if you want to take a breath, blood or urine test, and you might be taken to a police station or testing facility for the administration of that test. You should agree to take the test(s). Your driver’s license will be suspended for at least a year if you refuse. (The police could get a judge to sign a search warrant requiring you to give your blood). Taking the test could be a much wiser decision than saying no. Depending on the result, you may or may not be charged with a DUI.
- After the test has been administered, you may be asked whether you want your test sample(s) to be preserved. Always say yes. The results can be used as evidence to help your case later.
- When you are released, it’s a good idea to arrange to have another test done immediately at a hospital or by your own doctor.
At every stage of the process, remember to be polite and cooperative. You can still refuse to do certain things or answer questions and still remain respectful.
Finally, and perhaps most importantly, remember that you may request an attorney at any point in the process (if you cannot afford one, the court in most DUI situations will appoint an attorney to represent you at no or little cost to you.) An experienced DUI attorney will have the knowledge and familiarity with every step of the legal process, which can make all the difference between a good outcome and a bad break.
Consider what you have just read as a dose of helpful, preventive information. It is not legal advice. If you have questions about how DUI laws may affect you, or you are facing any DUI-related legal problems, contact Zachary Law Group for a FREE 30-minute case evaluation. Once you’ve made the call, you can be confident that we will do everything possible to assert and protect your legal rights and “Zach-It!” Call us today at 1-855-Zach-law.
