Initial appearance court (Intake, Transfer and Release)
The first court date after an arrest, within 24 hours. Release conditions, including any no-contact order, are set here.
2670 S. 28th Dr., Phoenix, AZ 85009
Tempe super extreme DUI defense
Super Extreme DUI Lawyer in Tempe, AZ
A DUI case is built from paperwork. So is the defense.
A printout reading .20 or higher can make a Tempe arrest feel decided on the spot. The car is gone for weeks, the jail minimum is the steepest a first DUI carries, and the license notice is already counting. Still, a reading is a measurement taken by people and machines, and both can be questioned.
We can help. Nova Law Group was built by a former Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutor. We prepare every case as if it is going to trial, and we take a meticulous, aggressive approach, fighting from every angle, because the report is only one side of the story.
Talk to us before you talk to anyone else. Call (480) 405-6767. Consultations are free and confidential, and the earlier we are involved, the more we can do.
FounderRyan TaitFormer Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutorMeet Ryan →★ 5-star reviewsFormer felony prosecutorAvailable after hoursFlat fee on most criminal casesFree, confidential consultation
The charges
A .20 case on Fifth Street
Alcohol levels
0.08 is DUI, 0.15 is extreme DUI and 0.20 is the top extreme tier, under A.R.S. § 28-1381 and § 28-1382.
MVD deadline
30 days to request a hearing on the license suspension, under A.R.S. § 28-1385.
City DUI
A misdemeanor DUI from inside Tempe is heard in Tempe Municipal Court, 140 E. Fifth Street.
Aggravated DUI
A felony under A.R.S. § 28-1383, prosecuted by the County Attorney in Superior Court in downtown Phoenix.
The number does not change the courthouse. Super extreme DUI is a class 1 misdemeanor, so Tempe Police arrests generally go to the city's Criminal Division prosecutors and are heard at Tempe Municipal Court, 140 E. Fifth Street. A trooper's or deputy's arrest may instead be assigned to a county justice court named on the citation. Felony court comes into it only if the State adds a 28-1383 circumstance, such as a suspended license.
The vehicle is usually the first loss. Arizona's tow law requires removal and impoundment or immobilization when an officer has probable cause to arrest for a 28-1382 offense, and the hold lasts 20 days. Tempe's impound page names extreme DUI as a 20-day offense. To contest the hold, the city takes voicemail requests at 480-350-8465 and schedules in-person hearings by appointment on Apache Boulevard. The city adds its own administrative fee to the tow company's charges.
One narrow exception can keep the car out of the lot. The statute spares a registered, insured vehicle when a licensed, unimpaired companion was with the driver, tells the officer they will drive it home or somewhere safe, and does. If that offer was made and refused, we want to know.
Booked drivers must be brought before a judge inside 24 hours (Rule 4.1) or released, and release terms after a .20 arrest can address alcohol and driving immediately. Cited drivers are arraigned on the date printed on the paperwork.
The MVD case starts with the notice. After a result of 0.08 or more, the hearing request "must be received by the department within thirty days after the date of the notice" (A.R.S. 28-1385(G)(2)(c)), and a timely request holds off the suspension until the hearing.
Discovery runs through the Prosecutor's Office, which posts an online request form. On a .20 case we ask for the full testing file, not just the result.
The law
The .20 tier, A.R.S. 28-1382(A)(2)
The offenseA reading of 0.20 or more, measured within two hours after you drove or had actual physical control of a vehicle in Arizona, where the alcohol was drunk before or during that driving (28-1382(A)(2)).
- Class. A class 1 misdemeanor (28-1382(K)): no more than six months in jail (A.R.S. 13-707(A)(1)) and a fine of no more than $2,500 (A.R.S. 13-802(A)).
- Jury. At arraignment the judge must tell you that a jury trial may be requested and that a request will be granted (28-1382(C)).
- First conviction. Jail of at least 45 consecutive days, with probation or suspension only once the whole term is served (28-1382(D)(1)); a fine of at least $500 (D)(2); a $250 assessment (D)(3) and two $1,000 assessments (D)(6) and (7); traffic survival school (D)(8). MVD also requires a certified interlock device (D)(5).
- A repeat within 84 months. At least 180 days in jail, 90 of them consecutive, a fine of at least $1,000, and revocation of the driving privilege (28-1382(E)). Offense dates control the count (28-1382(F)).
- Screening. Every conviction brings an order for alcohol or other drug screening (A.R.S. 28-1387(B)).
How sentences, device periods and license terms are built around those floors is on our statewide super extreme DUI page.
Super Extreme DUI Lawyer in Tempe, AZ
Questions we ask about a Tempe .20
Avoiding jail is not the same as avoiding a conviction. A super extreme conviction counts as a prior for 84 months, and a set-aside does not stop it from being used as a prior or by the Department of Transportation (A.R.S. 13-905(E)(3) and (5)). Noncitizens, commercial drivers and licensed professionals should get advice before any plea.
Time matters most
The two-hour window is part of the offense, so we build a minute-by-minute record from the driving to the sample and ask about anything consumed afterward.
The machine has a record
For breath, we review the instrument's maintenance and calibration history, the operator and the observation period before the test.
So does the blood
For a draw, we trace who took it, the tube, storage, chain of custody and the analyst's run, and we ask whether you had a reasonable chance to arrange your own test (A.R.S. 28-1388(C)).
The line is close
A result just over .20 may fall into the lower extreme tier once measurement uncertainty is considered, and that tier carries a 30-day floor instead of 45 (28-1382(D)(1)). The full analysis decides whether the margin matters.
Jurors or a judge
Because the right to a jury is guaranteed on request here, we decide together, once the records are in, which finder of fact should hear your case.
Work can continue
After 48 consecutive hours on a 28-1382 sentence, and once the court confirms a job or enrollment, the sentence must allow work or school for no more than 12 hours a day and six days a week unless the court finds good cause (A.R.S. 28-1387(C)).
The law
Sources: Arizona statutes and Cornell Law School
Each rule cited above appears in one of these texts.
- § 28-1382, the .15 and .20 tiers (azleg.gov)
- § 28-1385, the MVD notice and hearing (azleg.gov)
- § 28-1387, screening, work and school release (azleg.gov)
- § 28-1388, a test of your own (azleg.gov)
- § 28-3511, vehicle removal and the hold period (azleg.gov)
- § 13-707, the six-month cap (azleg.gov)
- § 13-802, the fine cap (azleg.gov)
- § 13-905, limits on set-asides (azleg.gov)
- DUI, general background (Cornell LII)
Super Extreme DUI Lawyer in Tempe, AZ
When the reading is the case
Nova Law Group was built by Ryan Tait, a former Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutor. The practice is criminal defense first. We keep caseloads deliberately low, which means the lawyers on your case have time to actually watch the video and read the reports line by line. We take super extreme DUI cases to trial when trial is the right pressure. Overcharging happens, and a case that is genuinely prepared for trial changes the conversation with the prosecutor. Most criminal cases are quoted as a flat fee. Consultations are free and confidential.
Former felony prosecutorBuilt by a former Maricopa County Attorney's Office felony prosecutor.
Low caseloadsTime to watch the video and read the reports line by line.
Ready for trialA case prepared for trial changes the conversation with the prosecutor.
Flat feeMost criminal cases are quoted as a flat fee. Consultations are free and confidential.
Our office
Meet us on Camelback Road
Office: 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Tempe clients meet with us there by appointment.
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Resources
Tempe courts and official links
Where a Tempe case is heard depends on the charge and the agency. Some offices are in Tempe and some are in Phoenix. Each card has directions and the official website, so you can check details before you go.
Tempe Municipal Court
Tempe misdemeanors and criminal traffic cases, from arraignment to trial. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone (480) 350-8271.
140 E. Fifth Street, Tempe, AZ 85281Maricopa County Superior Court, downtown
Felony cases prosecuted by the County Attorney. Confirm the building on your current notice.
Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., and South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003Laws cited on this page
- A.R.S. § 28-1385, Administrative license suspension for driving under the influence or for homicide or assault involving a motor vehicle
- A.R.S. § 13-707, Misdemeanors; sentencing
- A.R.S. § 13-802, Fines for misdemeanors
- A.R.S. § 28-1387, Prior convictions; alcohol or other drug screening, education and treatment and evidence-based psychotherapy; license suspension; supervised probation; civil liability; procedures
- A.R.S. § 28-1388, Blood and breath tests; violation; classification; admissible evidence
- A.R.S. § 13-905, Setting aside judgment of convicted person on discharge; application; release from disabilities
- A.R.S. § 28-1382, Driving or actual physical control while under the extreme influence of intoxicating liquor; trial by jury
- A.R.S. § 28-3511, Removal and immobilization or impoundment of vehicle; Arizona crime information center database
Common questions
Tempe super extreme DUI questions
No. Super extreme DUI is a class 1 misdemeanor under 28-1382(K), however high the number goes. A Tempe Police case generally stays at Tempe Municipal Court. Only an aggravating circumstance under 28-1383, such as driving on a suspended license or with a child under fifteen in the car, turns a DUI into a felony that the County Attorney brings in Superior Court downtown.
Tempe's Vehicle Impound Unit applies the state's 20-day hold to extreme DUI arrests. A hearing is requested by voicemail on the city's post storage line, 480-350-8465, and held by appointment at the police substation at 1855 E. Apache Blvd. The city charges its own administrative fee in addition to towing and storage, so call early and keep every receipt.
It can be. A result that close to the line deserves a careful look at the instrument's records, the observation period, the timing and any drinking after driving. If the evidence supports a lower tier, the minimum jail changes. No one can promise that outcome, but the records usually show whether the question is real.
Yes. Section 28-1382(C) requires the court to tell you at arraignment that you may request a jury trial and that the request will be granted. Many misdemeanors do not come with that right, so it is worth deciding carefully. We make that call with you once we have the video and the test records.
Then the stakes rise. A super extreme conviction within 84 months of an earlier DUI-type conviction carries at least 180 days in jail, 90 of them consecutive, a fine of at least $1,000 and revocation of the driving privilege. Offense dates decide whether the earlier case falls inside the window, so we check the dates on both.
Super Extreme DUI Lawyer in Tempe, AZ
The impound and MVD clocks are both running
Call (480) 405-6767. A car on a 20-day hold or an MVD notice in hand is reason enough to phone today.
Nova Law Group, PLLC, 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., by appointment.
Client reviews
Hear What Our Clients Say
From our Google reviews, plus Yelp and Avvo. These are clients’ own words, reproduced from our review profiles.
★★★★★
“These guys are the best attorneys in all of Arizona. It is definitely the most professional group of lawyers… I recommend this firm!”
★★★★★
“Sydney was extremely thorough regarding every single detail of my criminal case… it ultimately resulted in a clear and powerful win for my case.”
★★★★★
“They fought tirelessly for my case and helped me achieve a favorable outcome. Exceptional service and results.”
★★★★★
“The firm provided me with the most professional legal representation possible. Mr. Ryan Tait patiently explained… beyond my expectations.”
★★★★★
“The best law firm that I have ever dealt with. The amount of passion & commitment that they dedicated for my case… truly what separated them from other law firms.”
★★★★★
“Oh my goodness, our lawyer Ryan Tait was amazing. He does what he says he’s going to do. A very patient lawyer… He’s a miracle worker.”
★★★★★
“I was being charged with a few felony counts and facing a few years in prison… I made the best choice of my life calling this law firm.”
★★★★★
“…they reached out to one of their attorneys and confirmed my suspicions; I’ve been worried this whole time about criminal charges, they put my fears to rest. HIGHLY recommend them.”
★★★★★
“Helpful and clear direction in a time of uncertainty. Highly recommended.”
★★★★★
“Ryan Tait was amazing and really helpful. I would recommend him.”
★★★★★
“If you’re looking for a law group that truly cares about you and makes a difficult situation less stressful, these are your people… Alexis was my lawyer, and she was truly heaven-sent.”
★★★★★
“Alexis Brooks was my lawyer… She was extremely professional yet down to earth and always made me feel at ease and confident in my case. I would definitely recommend her for anyone that needs an excellent defense attorney.”
★★★★★
“Spectacular representation! Sydney was very compassionate, diligent and professional. I can’t recommend enough.”
★★★★★
“…Ryan and his team are kind, understanding, and very good listeners. Each member of his team was well educated, knowledgable and very professional.”
★★★★★
“We hired Mr. Tait to handle a legal affair for a member of our family. It was a complex criminal case that required over two years of work! Through the entire effort, Mr. Tait kept us informed…”
★★★★★
“My family hired Ryan Tait to fight for my family member… He went over all the pros and cons. He answered all our questions and calls. He knows what he is doing.”
★★★★★
“Ryan is absolutely awesome and professional. He gave me all detailed advice I needed. He is nice and patient. I definitely recommend Ryan and his law firm!”
★★★★★
“Very good at what they do… they were always on top of everything didn’t really have to do much they took care of everything…”
★★★★★
“These guys are great!! They did a great job on my case, super consistent and helpful. Definitely will recommend them to anyone.”
★★★★★
“Excellent lawyers… and their honesty, and they helped me even though I do not live in Arizona.”
Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Reseñas de clientes
Lo que dicen nuestros clientes
De nuestras reseñas en Google, además de Yelp y Avvo. Son las palabras de nuestros clientes, tomadas de nuestros perfiles de reseñas y traducidas del inglés.
★★★★★
“Son los mejores abogados de todo Arizona. Sin duda es el grupo de abogados más profesional… ¡Recomiendo esta firma!”
★★★★★
“Sydney fue sumamente minuciosa con cada detalle de mi caso penal… al final, eso resultó en una victoria clara y contundente para mi caso.”
★★★★★
“Lucharon incansablemente por mi caso y me ayudaron a lograr un resultado favorable. Servicio y resultados excepcionales.”
★★★★★
“La firma me brindó la representación legal más profesional posible. El Sr. Ryan Tait me explicó con paciencia… más allá de mis expectativas.”
★★★★★
“La mejor firma de abogados con la que he tratado. La pasión y el compromiso que dedicaron a mi caso… es lo que realmente los distinguió de otras firmas.”
★★★★★
“¡Dios mío, nuestro abogado Ryan Tait fue increíble! Cumple lo que dice que va a hacer. Un abogado muy paciente… Hace milagros.”
★★★★★
“Me acusaban de varios cargos por delitos graves y me enfrentaba a unos años de prisión… Tomé la mejor decisión de mi vida al llamar a esta firma.”
★★★★★
“…se comunicaron con uno de sus abogados y confirmaron mis sospechas; había estado preocupado todo este tiempo por posibles cargos penales, y calmaron mis temores. Los recomiendo MUCHÍSIMO.”
★★★★★
“Orientación útil y clara en un momento de incertidumbre. Muy recomendables.”
★★★★★
“Ryan Tait fue increíble y de gran ayuda. Lo recomendaría.”
★★★★★
“Si busca un despacho que de verdad se preocupe por usted y haga que una situación difícil sea menos estresante, esta es su gente… Alexis fue mi abogada, y fue una verdadera bendición.”
★★★★★
“Alexis Brooks fue mi abogada… Fue sumamente profesional y a la vez sencilla, y siempre me hizo sentir tranquilo y seguro con mi caso. Sin duda la recomendaría a cualquiera que necesite una excelente abogada defensora.”
★★★★★
“¡Representación espectacular! Sydney fue muy compasiva, diligente y profesional. No puedo recomendarla lo suficiente.”
★★★★★
“…Ryan y su equipo son amables, comprensivos y saben escuchar. Cada miembro de su equipo demostró estar bien preparado, con conocimiento y gran profesionalismo.”
★★★★★
“Contratamos al Sr. Tait para encargarse de un asunto legal de un miembro de nuestra familia. Fue un caso penal complejo que requirió más de dos años de trabajo. Durante todo el proceso, el Sr. Tait nos mantuvo informados…”
★★★★★
“Mi familia contrató a Ryan Tait para luchar por un familiar… Nos explicó todos los pros y los contras. Respondió todas nuestras preguntas y llamadas. Sabe lo que hace.”
★★★★★
“Ryan es absolutamente increíble y profesional. Me dio todos los consejos detallados que necesitaba. Es amable y paciente. ¡Sin duda recomiendo a Ryan y a su bufete!”
★★★★★
“Muy buenos en lo que hacen… siempre estuvieron al tanto de todo; casi no tuve que hacer nada, ellos se encargaron de todo…”
★★★★★
“¡Son excelentes! Hicieron un gran trabajo en mi caso, muy constantes y serviciales. Sin duda los recomendaré a cualquiera.”
★★★★★
“Excelentes abogados… y su honestidad y eso que me ayudaron que yo no vivo en Arizona”
Los resultados anteriores no garantizan un resultado similar.
Talk to a Tempe criminal defense lawyer
If you have been arrested, charged, or contacted by a detective in Tempe, the decisions you make in the first few days matter. We defend misdemeanors in Tempe Municipal Court and the justice courts, and felonies in Maricopa County Superior Court downtown.
Free, confidential consultation: (480) 405-6767
Prefer not to call? Send us your case details and a member of our team will follow up with you.
Tempe courts
- Tempe Municipal CourtMisdemeanors and criminal traffic cases from inside Tempe. Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.140 E. Fifth St., Tempe, AZ 85281Court website Directions
- Justice courtsSome DPS and Sheriff's Office misdemeanors. Your citation names the court.Find your court
- Maricopa County Superior CourtFelonies, at the downtown criminal court complex.Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., and South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003Court website Directions
Our office: Nova Law Group, PLLC, 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., by appointment. Directions
Hable con un abogado de defensa penal en Tempe
Si lo arrestaron, lo acusaron o un detective lo contactó en Tempe, las decisiones que tome en los primeros días importan. Defendemos delitos menores en la Corte Municipal de Tempe y en las cortes de justicia, y delitos graves en la Corte Superior del Condado de Maricopa en el centro de Phoenix.
Consulta gratuita y confidencial: (480) 405-6767
¿Prefiere no llamar? Envíenos los detalles de su caso y un miembro de nuestro equipo se comunicará con usted.
Cortes de Tempe
- Corte Municipal de TempeDelitos menores y casos penales de tránsito dentro de Tempe. De lunes a viernes, de 8:00 a.m. a 5:00 p.m.140 E. Fifth St., Tempe, AZ 85281Sitio de la corte Cómo llegar
- Cortes de justiciaAlgunos delitos menores del DPS y de la Oficina del Sheriff. Su citación indica la corte.Busque su corte
- Corte Superior del Condado de MaricopaDelitos graves, en el complejo penal del centro.Central Court Building, 201 W. Jefferson St., and South Court Tower, 175 W. Madison St., Phoenix, AZ 85003Sitio de la corte Cómo llegar
Nuestra oficina: Nova Law Group, PLLC, 4455 E. Camelback Rd., Suite C250, Phoenix, AZ 85018. De lunes a viernes, de 8:00 a.m. a 6:00 p.m., con cita previa. Cómo llegar
RecognitionReconocimientos
Awards and ratingsPremios y calificaciones
Awards and ratings reflect the standards of the organizations that issue them. They do not predict the outcome of any case.Los premios y las calificaciones reflejan los criterios de las organizaciones que los otorgan. No predicen el resultado de ningún caso.