Commercial Driver DUI Lawyer Scottsdale

Being a commercial driver is more than just a job—it’s a livelihood. Whether you operate a semi-truck, delivery van, or bus, your Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) is your career. If you’re facing a DUI charge in Scottsdale, the stakes are higher than for ordinary drivers. You’re not just fighting for your freedom—you’re fighting for your future income, reputation, and ability to provide for your family.

At Attorney Josh, we understand what’s on the line. As an experienced Commercial Driver DUI lawyer in Scottsdale, Joshua A. Lopez, Esq. uses smart legal tactics to build a strategic defense tailored specifically to CDL holders. Our goal is clear: Strong Defense. Strong Results.

DUI Charges for Commercial Drivers in Arizona

Under Arizona law (A.R.S. §28-1381 and §28-1382), commercial drivers face stricter rules and penalties than non-commercial drivers. For standard motorists, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%, but for commercial drivers operating a commercial vehicle, the limit is just 0.04%.

Even if you weren’t driving your commercial vehicle at the time of the arrest, a DUI conviction can still jeopardize your CDL, lead to license suspension, and potentially destroy your career.

Some key things to know:

• First-time DUI conviction can result in a 1-year CDL suspension
• Second conviction can lead to a lifetime CDL ban
• Refusing a breath or blood test can trigger an automatic suspension under implied consent laws
• DUI charges while off-duty can still count against your CDL

This is why working with a seasoned Commercial Driver DUI lawyer in Scottsdale is critical to protecting both your legal rights and your professional future.

The Impact of a DUI on Your CDL

For CDL holders, the consequences of a DUI go beyond fines and jail time. Even a first-time DUI can result in:

• CDL disqualification for 1 year
• Mandatory alcohol education or rehab programs
• Increased insurance premiums or denial of coverage
• Loss of employment due to employer policies or disqualification
• Difficulty finding future employment in the transportation industry

And remember: Arizona participates in the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) program. That means DUI convictions are reported nationally, making it almost impossible to relocate and hide a record from prospective employers.

As your Commercial Driver DUI lawyer in Scottsdale, Attorney Josh fights not just for dismissal or reduction of charges, but also to preserve your license and protect your livelihood.

Common DUI Scenarios for Commercial Drivers

CDL holders can find themselves facing DUI charges under a variety of circumstances. Some common examples include:

• Pulled over for weaving, speeding, or wide turns while hauling a load
• Arrested for DUI in a personal vehicle during off-hours
• Failed breath test during routine commercial checkpoint
• Being parked in a vehicle with keys in the ignition (physical control laws)
• Charged due to prescription or over-the-counter medication impairment

Each situation requires a unique legal strategy. At Attorney Josh, we customize every defense to fit the facts, technical evidence, and your long-term career needs.

Strong Legal Defenses for CDL DUI Charges

Fighting a DUI charge as a commercial driver is not impossible—but it does require strategic and precise legal defense. At Attorney Josh, we evaluate every angle of your case and implement smart legal tactics that have a proven track record of success.

Here are some of the defenses we may explore:

1. Lack of Probable Cause

If the arresting officer did not have a valid reason to stop you, we may be able to get the entire case dismissed.

2. Faulty Breathalyzer or BAC Results

Breath tests and blood draws can be flawed. Devices must be calibrated properly and procedures must be strictly followed.

3. Improper Field Sobriety Testing

Commercial drivers are often fatigued or under physical strain from long hours. This can affect balance and coordination during tests not designed for drivers with CDL responsibilities.

4. Violation of Rights

If you were not properly advised of your rights, or if law enforcement failed to follow lawful arrest protocols, your case may be subject to suppression.

5. No Actual Physical Control

In Arizona, even sitting in a parked vehicle with keys nearby can result in DUI charges. We challenge whether you were truly in “control” of the vehicle at the time.

When you’re up against aggressive prosecution, you need a Commercial Driver DUI lawyer in Scottsdale who isn’t just experienced—but strategic.

Arizona DUI Penalties for CDL Holders

Here’s what’s on the line if you’re convicted:

• First Offense (Misdemeanor):
  • Jail time: Minimum 10 days (some of which may be suspended)
  • Fines: Up to $2,500
  • CDL suspended for 1 year
  • Mandatory substance abuse classes
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID) required for personal vehicle

• Second Offense:
  • Jail: Up to 90 days or more
  • Fines: Increased substantially
  • Lifetime CDL disqualification
  • Permanent mark on your driving and criminal record

These penalties are not only harsh but life-altering. At Attorney Josh, we work hard to mitigate or eliminate these consequences through aggressive, smart defense strategies.

What Sets Attorney Josh Apart?

Not all criminal defense attorneys understand the technical nuances of commercial driver DUI cases. At Attorney Josh, we bring unique advantages:

Specialized Knowledge

We understand both Arizona DUI law and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations that govern CDL holders.

Smart Legal Tactics

Every move we make is calculated. From suppression motions to expert witness testimony, we plan and execute your defense with precision.

Strong Results

We’ve helped numerous CDL holders avoid losing their license, keep their jobs, and move forward without a criminal record weighing them down.

Local Experience

With offices in both Scottsdale and Phoenix, we have direct experience with Maricopa County prosecutors and judges—and we know how to navigate their courtroom procedures effectively.

Personal Representation

Your case won’t be handed off to a junior associate. You’ll work directly with Joshua A. Lopez, Esq., a trusted and respected name in Arizona criminal defense.

CDL Holders and Implied Consent Laws

Arizona’s implied consent law means that if you refuse to take a breath or blood test, your license can be suspended automatically for 12 months—even before you are convicted. For CDL holders, this can be devastating.

We understand the complexities of defending against these administrative penalties while simultaneously fighting the criminal charges. Our dual-pronged approach helps protect your record both in the courtroom and with the Arizona MVD.

What To Do If You’re a CDL Holder Arrested for DUI

If you’ve been arrested or cited for DUI and you hold a commercial driver’s license, take the following steps immediately:

1. Don’t Say Anything Incriminating – Stay polite, but don’t offer extra information to law enforcement.
2. Contact Attorney Josh Immediately – Early intervention can prevent serious damage.
3. Write Down Everything – From the initial stop to field testing to what was said—document every detail.
4. Avoid Social Media – Anything you post can be used against you.
5. Request a Hearing Promptly – You have limited time to request a hearing to challenge your license suspension.

The longer you wait, the harder it becomes to protect your CDL. Don’t delay.

How We Can Help

At Attorney Josh, we know what’s at stake for commercial drivers accused of DUI. It’s more than just a case—it’s your career, your family’s security, and your professional reputation on the line.

With offices in Scottsdale and Phoenix, we serve commercial drivers across Maricopa County with strategic, aggressive defense that works. Whether it’s your first DUI or you’ve been charged before, we’ll assess every legal angle, challenge every flaw in the evidence, and fight relentlessly to protect your CDL.

When you’re ready to take the next step, Attorney Josh is here to help.

Strong Defense. Strong Results.