Felony DUI Attorney in Tucson
Charged With a Felony DUI? We Provide Honest, Experienced Guidance for Tucson Residents
If you have been arrested and charged with a felony DUI in Tucson, the uncertainty you face can be overwhelming. Facing a real risk of jail time, a criminal record, and significant impacts on your education or career creates stress that is hard to ignore.
At Law Offices of Patrick Alan Moran, LLC, we understand the fear and confusion surrounding felony drunk driving charges. Our goal is to stand by your side with clear legal direction and support at this critical moment.
Our team has over 20 years of criminal defense experience, working with people facing charges in Tucson and throughout Central and Southern Arizona. We are known for a personalized, thoughtful approach—whether you are a college student navigating university discipline or an adult concerned about your future.
When your freedom is on the line, we strive to offer the answers, advocacy, and honest guidance you need to protect your opportunities.
Call (520) 402-3226 or reach out online today to schedule a confidential consultation with a felony DUI attorney in Tucson. Our firm, led by a former judge, provides experienced representation and offers virtual consultations.
Understanding the Conditions that Result in a Felony DUI in Arizona
In Arizona, a DUI charge becomes a Felony DUI—a crime defined by ARS § 28-1383—not due to an extremely high Blood Alcohol Content (BAC), but due to specific felony-level conditions present at the time of the offense.
These factors reflect a reckless disregard for the safety or rules of the road. As your Tucson felony DUI lawyer, we focus on challenging the existence or validity of these underlying factors, which is the key to preventing a felony conviction.
In Arizona, a person is guilty of a Felony DUI (a crime under the Arizona Revised Statutes) if they commit an underlying misdemeanor DUI offense (ARS § 28-1381 or 28-1382) while one of the following four conditions exists:
- Prior DUI History: Committing a third or subsequent DUI violation within a period of 84 months (seven years). This condition commonly results in a Felony DUI charge.
- Driving on a Suspended or Revoked License: Committing a DUI while your driver's license or privilege to drive is already suspended, canceled, revoked, or refused. This is true even if the prior suspension was for a non-DUI reason.
- Minor in the Vehicle: Committing a DUI while a person under 15 years of age is a passenger in the vehicle. This factor typically results in a Class 6 Felony.
- Ignition Interlock Device (IID) Violation: Committing a DUI while ordered to equip your vehicle with an IID, or driving a vehicle without a required IID.
The majority of these Felony DUI charges fall under the classification of a Class 4 Felony (prior DUI or suspended or revoked license) or a Class 6 Felony (child in the car). Our experience as a felony DUI attorney in Tucson allows us to quickly assess which felony-level factor applies to your case and construct an immediate defense aimed at nullifying that element.
Shepherding You Through the Criminal Justice System Your Advocate, Every Step of the Way
-
Tailored Defense
We design personalized legal strategies to fit your unique case, ensuring the best path forward for your situation.
-
Client-Centered Approach
Compassionate and approachable, we guide you through the process with clear communication and understanding.
-
Focused Representation
From DUI and traffic violations to college disciplinary cases, we leverage our deep understanding of the law.
-
Unique Insight
With experience as a former judge, Patrick Alan Moran offers unparalleled perspective and strategic advantage.
Mandatory Penalties of a Felony DUI Conviction in Arizona
Arizona imposes some of the harshest DUI penalties in the nation, and for a Felony DUI conviction, the penalties are mandatory and severe. Under Arizona law, there is no possibility of suspension, or "good behavior" reduction for the minimum prison term.
Direct Sentencing Consequences
- Mandatory Prison Time: For a first-time Felony DUI (typically a Class 4 Felony), the minimum sentence is four months (120 days) of mandatory prison time in the Department of Corrections, not jail time. The sentence can range up to 3.75 years for a first offense and much longer for subsequent felony convictions.
- Felony Fines and Assessments: Mandatory minimum fines exceed $4,000, including various surcharges and assessments dedicated to prison construction and DUI abatement funds.
- License Revocation: A conviction results in the revocation of your driver's license for a minimum of one year, with potential three-year revocations for repeat offenders.
- Mandatory IID: Upon reinstatement, you must install an Ignition Interlock Device on your vehicle for a minimum of one year at your own expense.
This severe sentencing structure means that effective defense work must begin immediately. Our firm’s deep knowledge of Pima County Superior Court procedures allows us to provide the experienced, focused defense that can mean the difference between prison and freedom. When facing a mandatory prison sentence, the insight of a Tucson felony DUI lawyer is invaluable.
How We Defend Against Felony DUI Charges in Tucson
Every felony DUI case we take is different. Our team never uses a standard template—your defense is built from the ground up, focused on the unique facts and your specific goals.
Gathering All Relevant Details
We start by closely examining the evidence: police reports, field sobriety and chemical test results, officer conduct, and any bodycam or dashcam footage. We look for errors, inconsistencies, or violations of your rights that can make a real difference in court.
Our defense strategies may include:
- Challenging the legality of the initial stop or arrest
- Questioning the accuracy of field sobriety and breath testing devices
- Identifying medical issues or external factors affecting your results
- Highlighting procedural mistakes during the investigation or booking
- Negotiating for reduced charges or diversion when possible
Defense For Students Facing Parallel Proceedings
If you are a University of Arizona or Pima Community College student, we coordinate criminal and academic defenses. We often prepare students for disciplinary hearings, help with written responses, and advise on how to best protect their academic future. Clients benefit directly from our experience advocating in both Pima County Superior Court and university hearings. While no result can be guaranteed, our dual-focus defense means every aspect of your case is addressed—not just the legal charges.
Why People in Tucson Rely on Us for Felony DUI Defense
A felony DUI often brings consequences that go far beyond the courtroom. College students may face disciplinary action from the University of Arizona or Pima Community College, which can jeopardize enrollment and scholarships.
Adults risk long-term effects on employment, professional licensing, and reputation. Because the stakes are high, our approach starts with real understanding—each case is different and each strategy must be built around you.
Our experience makes a genuine difference. We draw on a strong background as public defenders in Pima County Superior Court and have handled many hearings before student disciplinary boards at the University of Arizona.
Our team treats every client with respect, privacy, and a clear recognition that your outcome matters. This shapes the way we prepare your defense, always informed by Tucson's local procedures and the hurdles unique to this city. You will never be left in the dark or feel like just another case number.
Start Your Defense Today: Honest, Personal Legal Help
With more than two decades of experience in Tucson and a deep understanding of both criminal and university proceedings, our team brings compassion and clarity to your case. Your first consultation is confidential and offered without obligation, designed to help you navigate your situation with confidence.
Contact us online today to schedule your confidential consultation. Call (520) 402-3226.
