Maricopa County DUI Guide

DUI Arrest in Maricopa County, AZ: Complete Guide

Being arrested for DUI in Maricopa County can be a disorienting experience. With an estimated 35,000 DUI arrests annually in Arizona, and Maricopa County being the state's demographic engine, you're certainly not alone. This guide provides immediate, practical guidance on navigating the Maricopa County DUI process, from understanding the booking procedure to protecting your driving privileges. We'll cover critical deadlines, court information, and local resources to help you take the first steps toward resolving your case.

What Happens After a DUI Arrest in Maricopa County

Immediately after a DUI arrest in Maricopa County, you'll likely be taken to a police station or directly to the Intake, Transfer, and Release (ITR) facility, located at 2670 S 28th Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85009. The ITR handles approximately 100,000 bookings and 90,000 releases each year, serving as the central hub for processing arrests within the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and a health screening. Your personal belongings will be inventoried and stored.

Immediate Steps (First 24 Hours)

Here's a general timeline of what to expect in the first 24 hours:

• Arrest and Transport: You'll be transported to either a local police station or directly to the ITR.
• Booking: The booking process can take several hours.
• Phone Calls: You'll be allowed to make phone calls after booking, typically to arrange for bail or contact an attorney.
• Bail Setting: A bail amount will be set based on the charges and your criminal history (if any).
• Release: You can be released on your own recognizance (OR), post bail, or remain in custody until your arraignment. Note that being released from any of the jail facilities requires transport to the ITR, which can take 2-6 hours. The 512 Facility, attached to the ITR, is a short-term housing unit designed to speed up release for those likely to bail out or be released on OR.

Critical Deadlines

Missing deadlines can have serious consequences in a DUI case. Be aware of these key dates:

• Administrative License Revocation (ALR) Hearing: You have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request an ALR hearing to contest the suspension of your driver's license. Failing to request a hearing within this timeframe will result in an automatic license suspension.
• Arraignment: This is your first court appearance, where you will be formally charged and enter a plea. The date will be on your release paperwork.
• Pre-Trial Conferences and Hearings: Subsequent court dates will be scheduled to discuss the case, negotiate plea agreements, and prepare for trial.

DUI Enforcement in Maricopa County

Maricopa County has a "zero tolerance" enforcement philosophy, which contributes to a high volume of DUI arrests. With an estimated 480 DUI arrests per 100,000 residents (calculated based on the driving-age population or including DUI-related charges), the county actively targets impaired drivers. While specific checkpoint locations are not publicly advertised, keep in mind that DUI saturation patrols are common, particularly during holidays and weekends.

Local Resources

• El Centro Justice Court: 620 W. Jackson Street, Phoenix, AZ (Phone: N/A, Hours: Not available)
• Encanto Justice Court: 620 W. Jackson Street, Phoenix, AZ (Phone: N/A, Hours: Not available)
• South Mountain Justice Court: 620 W. Jackson Street, Phoenix, AZ (Phone: N/A, Hours: Not available)
• Maricopa County Intake, Transfer, and Release (ITR) Facility: 2670 S 28th Dr, Phoenix, AZ 85009
• Bail Bondsmen: (General information, no specific recommendations - search online for "Maricopa County bail bonds")
• DUI Attorneys: (General information, no specific recommendations - search online for "Maricopa County DUI attorney")

What Makes Maricopa County Different

Several factors make Maricopa County unique in its approach to DUI enforcement and processing:

• Centralized Booking: The shift to the Intake, Transfer, and Release (ITR) facility as the central booking location for the entire county impacts the release timeline. Even if housed at another jail, defendants must be transported to ITR for release, adding a potential 2-6 hour delay.
• High DUI Arrest Rate: The county's high DUI arrest rate, estimated at 480 per 100,000 residents, underscores the importance of understanding your rights and seeking legal representation.
• Strict DUI Laws: Arizona's "Extreme DUI" (BAC > 0.15) and "Super Extreme DUI" (BAC > 0.20) laws carry mandatory jail time, even for first offenses.
• One-Party Consent: Arizona's one-party consent law is relevant if you are working with a bail bondsman, as they can legally record conversations with you or co-signers to establish contractual liability.

If you have been arrested for a DUI in Maricopa County, your next step should be to contact a qualified DUI attorney. You can also contact the Maricopa County Bar Association Lawyer Referral Service for assistance in finding an attorney. Their phone number is (602) 257-4200.