Driving under the influence is a serious offense that can result in devastating consequences for commercial drivers since their livelihood depends on their ability to drive. Unlike regular car drivers, there are stricter rules for commercial drivers concerning the limits of alcohol consumption. That higher standard means even one mistake — like a DUI arrest– may cause more jeopardy to your professional and financial futures. With such grim consequences, a proper understanding of the law and the avenues available in case a charge of DUI is brought against you becomes essential. This article outlines how you can successfully defend against DUI charges.
Understand the Legal Landscape
Commercial drivers have stricter rules than those who drive their private cars. In most states, like Arizona, the blood alcohol content (BAC) legal limit for commercial drivers is 0.04%, whereas, for non-commercial drivers, it is 0.08%. This means a little consumption can get you charged with DUI. Besides, in Arizona, there are zero tolerance policies, which imply that any detectable amount may result in sanctions, including arrest and possibly loss of employment. Administrative consequences of a DUI arrest can be quite serious: normally, an arrest will automatically trigger suspension of your license, regardless of the outcome of the criminal case. The immediate consequences can extensively hinder your ability to support yourself, making fast legal action quite necessary. If you are facing charges of DUI, you may be taken into a multifaceted legal process that may include things such as arraignment, trial, and sentencing, all with assigned punishments that can include heavy fines, imprisonment, and alcohol education programs. Because of the multifaceted nature of such issues, it is appropriate to seek the assistance of a Sun City DUI defense attorney.
Seek Legal Counsel
Getting arrested for DUI can indeed be stressful for commercial drivers, but what you do afterward is important in the protection of your rights and jobs. First, find an attorney immediately. A Sun City DUI defense attorney will provide personalized service to explain your rights and help you develop an effective defense. Document everything that transpired prior to the arrest. In other words, note what time and where it was, what interactions you had with the officer, and facts about the field sobriety tests given. Your attorney can further request an administrative hearing, which is basically an appeal hearing on the suspension of your commercial driver’s license, but this has to fall within the required timeline. They will get everything together alongside all related documents that could secure you a favorable decision; whether a reduction of charges, plea bargaining, or even dismissal of your case.
Explore Alternative Sentencing Options
Alternative sentences might sometimes be a way out of rigid sentences, such as imprisonment and cancellation of license. A common instance is the attendance of DUI diversion programs, which are often presented to first-time offenders. Completion of such programs may be met with your charges dismissed. Another avenue open to you is the plea bargain. Your DUI defense attorney in Sun City will be able to negotiate the most favorable deal on your behalf. Community service and mandatory rehabilitation programs may also form part of the sentencing. You may even be entitled to a restricted license and be permitted to drive under restriction in order to continue to provide for your livelihood.
