When the clock struck midnight on New Year's Eve, Arizonans celebrated the arrival of 2012. January 1st ushered in a number of new laws in Arizona, including a huge break for DUI offenders. Those convicted of drunk driving for the first time will only have to use an ignition interlock device in their vehicles for only six months, compared to one year under the old law.
The reduction comes with several stipulations. First, offenders must adhere to all court ordered requirements during the six-month period. This includes attending (and completing) all classes ordered by the court, and having a perfect record of ignition interlock tests. Also the new law only applies to first time offenders, whose transgressions do not result in other charges. If an accident is caused in conjunction with the DUI, or if other crimes stem from the offense, the reduced period does not apply.
Those convicted of a subsequent DUI, or extreme DUI will still have to use ignition interlocks for at least one year.
Before the change, Arizona was one of few states that required ignition interlocks for one year. The requirement became effective in 2007, and was a further measure to prevent repeat offenders. However, legislators later believed that this period was too harsh. Senator Linda Gray of Glendale explained to the Arizona Republic that six months was long enough to teach an important (and expensive) lesson to first time offenders. Ignition interlock devices normally cost $120.00 to install, and $80.00 per month to maintain. Also, DUI related fatalities dropped each year since interlock devices were required.
The change was met with criticism from Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD), a victim advocacy group. But some legal experts believe that offenders will have a tough time following all their requirements, leading to them using the devices for a full year.
If you have been charged with (or convicted of) driving under the influence, an experienced criminal defense attorney can advise you of your rights and options.
