Graham County ALR Hearing Guide

The City of Safford has aggressively utilized its statutory authority to monetize the impound process, charging an Administrative Impound Fee of $150.00. This means understanding the ALR (Administrative License Revocation) process in Graham County, Arizona, following a DUI arrest is crucial to protect your driving privileges. Failing to act quickly can lead to a suspended license. This guide provides key information specific to Graham County to help you navigate the MVD (Motor Vehicle Division) hearing process.

What is an ALR Hearing?

An ALR hearing is a separate administrative proceeding from your criminal DUI case. It determines whether the MVD has sufficient cause to suspend your driver's license based on your DUI arrest. You must request this hearing within 15 days of the date of your DUI arrest.

Requesting an ALR Hearing in Graham County

While specific methods for requesting a hearing in Graham County are not explicitly detailed, it is crucial to act fast. Contact the Arizona MVD immediately to determine the proper procedure. You can likely find information and potentially request a hearing online through the AZMVDNow.gov website. Alternatively, you can attempt to request a hearing by phone or mail, but ensure you retain proof of your request within the 15-day deadline.

Why Request an ALR Hearing?

Requesting a hearing allows you to challenge the suspension of your license. At the hearing, you can present evidence and argue that the MVD does not have sufficient grounds to suspend your driving privileges. This could include challenging the validity of the traffic stop, the accuracy of the breath or blood test, or the procedures followed during your arrest. Winning the ALR hearing allows you to retain your driving privileges during the pendency of the DUI criminal case.

Graham County Impound & License Reinstatement

After a DUI arrest in Graham County, your vehicle is subject to a 30-day impoundment, though early release may be possible after 20 days under specific conditions, or earlier if your driving privileges are reinstated. To recover your vehicle, you'll need to navigate a process that varies depending on which agency initiated the impound.

City of Safford Impounds: If arrested by the Safford Police Department (SPD), you'll likely have to pay a $150 administrative impound fee to the City of Safford. This fee is payable to the City, not the towing company. You must pay this fee at the City of Safford administration or Police Department and obtain a release form before going to the tow yard. Note that if your arrest occurs on a Friday night, you will likely be unable to pay the fee until Monday morning, accruing additional storage fees.

Graham County Sheriff’s Office (GCSO) Impounds: If arrested by the GCSO, contact them directly regarding their specific procedures for obtaining a release form.

Towing Companies: Graham County utilizes a rotation system for towing services. The primary providers in Safford are Nuttall's Towing LLC (304 S 7th Ave, Safford, AZ 85546) and Magnum Towing (530 E U.S. Hwy 70, Safford, AZ 85546). Contact the arresting agency to determine which company has your vehicle. Note: Nuttall's may have limited administrative release hours, while Magnum Towing advertises 24-hour availability. Be prepared to pay in cash.

Ignition Interlock Device (IID)

If your license is suspended and you are eventually eligible for reinstatement, you will likely be required to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) in your vehicle.

Local Graham County IID installers include:

• Intoxalock: Local Partner: Haralson Tire Company, 214 E US Hwy 70, Safford, AZ 85546. (Closed weekends)
• Smart Start: Local Partner: UTV Werks, 1153 W Thatcher Blvd, Safford, AZ 85546.
• QuickStart: 102 W 5th St, Safford, AZ.

Choose a provider in Safford to minimize the logistical burden of monthly calibrations.

Remember, you only have 15 days to request an ALR hearing. Contact the Arizona MVD promptly to preserve your right to drive.