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This includes standard fines, surcharges (amounting to 80 percent of the fines), additional $500 fine imposed on first-timers, and $1240 for repeat offenders. These additional fines were imposed in August 2005, to augment the standard fines that only covered expenses for court procedures.
The additional money goes to improvements in highway safety systems and prison housing facilities, according to Arizona lawmakers. The Arizona Department of Public Safety is adding more police \ along highways to help deter and arrest drivers who go on the road while under the influence of alcohol and other substances. The fines also go to "prison construction assessments," since every DUI offender found guilty needs to serve a mandatory prison sentence.
Note that fines actually vary depending on the gravity of the offense. First-time offenders found to have very high alcohol content in their bloodstream (.15 or more) may be asked to pay as much as $2,700. The fines stated above are the minimum fines, and depending on the judge, an offender may be forced to pay a much higher amount. In addition to the crippling fines, DUI offenders may also lose their driver's license and are ordered to submit to alcohol screening and drug and alcohol counseling sessions.
If you happen to be charged with DUI and cannot pay the fine upfront, you have the option of paying it over time. Immediately consult with an experienced Arizona DUI attorney to prevent losing your license and to protect yourself from other possible fees. But the best advice is still prevention - don't drink and drive. This way you stay safe, avoid fines and keep your record clean.
By Peter Emerson
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E-Arizona DUI Attorney.com