Chandler DUI Lawyer

Drinking & Driving in Chandler, AZ

Are you facing DUI charges in Chandler, AZ? If so, this Firm can help. With nearly 20 years’ experience, Mr. Buckallew has defended countless DUI cases in Chandler and throughout the entire Valley. In Arizona, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. You will be charged with DUI if your BAC (blood alcohol content) is at or above 0.08% (or 0.00% if you are under the age of 21).  The BAC limit for commercial drivers is 0.04%. Given the potential employment consequences for commercial drivers, it is imperative to seek the advice of an experienced Chandler DUI lawyer before making any decisions in your case.

What happens during a DUI traffic stop?  If you are stopped by a Chandler police officer, you may be asked to perform some field sobriety tests such as the walk and turn test and the one leg stand. Additionally, you may be asked to submit to a chemical test such as a breath or blood test. It is your constitutional right to refuse to perform these tests, however in Arizona there is an implied consent law, meaning that if you are driving in Arizona then consent to a chemical test is implied. If you refuse to take the chemical test, then for your first refusal you will automatically lose your license for one year. An experienced Chandler criminal defense attorney can advise you of your rights during an arrest, including whether you should refuse certain or all tests an officer is asking you to participate in.

Chandler DUI Courts

If you were arrested for DUI by the Chandler Police Department you will likely be appearing in the Chandler Municipal Court (for misdemeanor violations). This courthouse is located at 200 East Chicago Street in downtown Chandler. If you were arrested by AZ Department of Public Safety or the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office, then you will likely be appearing in the San Marcos Justice Court or the Kyrene Justice Court (for misdemeanor violations). These Justice Courts are in the San Tan Regional Court Center right across the street from the City Court, at 201 East Chicago Street.  Finally, if your case is being charged as a felony DUI, you will likely be appearing in the Maricopa County Superior Court, located at 222 East Javelina in Mesa, AZ. This Firm frequently handles DUI cases (and all types of criminal cases) in all of these courts and is familiar with the Judges and prosecutors in these courthouses.

Charged With DUI in Chandler, AZ? This Firm can Help!

The penalties upon conviction of DUI range in severity depending on a number of factors, including your BAC level, whether you have any prior DUI convictions, whether you had a valid license at the time of the arrest, or if you were involved in a car accident or had minor children in the car, among other possible factors.  However, at a minimum, you can expect to pay fines, complete alcohol screening and classes, possibly serve jail time, possibly lose your license for a period of time, and potentially be assigned mandatory installation of an ignition interlock device in each of your vehicles. The minimum jail time on a first-time DUI conviction is 24 hours and increase from there if you have prior DUI convictions, if your DUI falls into either the Extreme, Super Extreme, or felony DUI categories, or if there were other factors in your case.  A competent DUI lawyer will be able to review your case along with your particular circumstances and advise you of the possible penalties in your case, if you are convicted.

The penalties upon conviction of a DUI charge can be extremely challenging to face and it is advisable to consult with an experienced DUI attorney serving Chandler regarding your legal options and possible defenses that may be available in your case before making any decisions that could result in unintended consequences. A Board Certified DUI Lawyer from the Law Offices of Trent R. Buckallew, PC will be able to help you understand your legal options and assist you in pursuing the most favorable outcome possible in your case.

Contact the Firm today to arrange a free evaluation of your case, regarding any pending DUI charges in Chandler or throughout the State of Arizona.