What is an Aggravated DUI?
An aggravated DUI is a special type of DUI that is considered a Class 4 felony. This type of crime is charged when an individual is operating a vehicle with any amount of alcohol in his or her system and commits one or more of the following:
- Driving on a suspended, restricted, cancelled or revoked drivers’ license
- Does not have a valid license
- Has two DUI convictions within seven years
- Has been ordered to use, but is not using, an ignition interlock device
In some cases, an aggravated DUI can be charged as a Class 6 felony if the driver’s blood alcohol content is higher than .08 and he or she has a child under the age of 15 in the vehicle being driven.
Is an Aggravated DUI a Serious Charge?
While all criminal charges should be taken seriously, an aggravated DUI is considered more serious than a misdemeanor charge. Because it is a felony, a conviction will label you as a “convicted felon” and this can be used against you if you are ever arrested for another felony charge. Felonies also lead to more serious penalties, including:
- Months or even years in prison
- High fines in the thousands of dollars
- Mandatory counseling
- Revocation of drivers’ license
- Probation
- Community Service
- Expensive SR-22 insurance requirements
- Court mandated installation of an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle
If you have a prior felony conviction, the penalties will be even harsher.
How Do I Build a Defense Against a Felony DUI Charge?
If you are facing any type of DUI charge, from a misdemeanor to a felony, you need the help of a DUI defense attorney to build a strong and solid defense. The team at the Oswalt Law Group in Phoenix can help you properly deal with the consequences of an aggravated DUI charge. Depending on the case, our team of DUI defense lawyers can help you obtain less serious penalties or sentences when facing serious criminal charges. In some cases, our talented team of attorneys may even be able to get the charges completely dismissed. The DUI attorneys at the Oswalt Law Group offer a free, no-obligation consultation for anyone facing criminal DUI charges. To ensure you have the best chance at a positive outcome to your case, turn to the experienced and aggressive DUI defense attorneys at the Oswalt Law Group.