Intoxication Defense in Arizona: Understanding the Difference between Voluntary and Involuntary Intoxication

Feature Article: The Difference between Voluntary and Involuntary Intoxication in Arizona

Imagine taking an Uber ride home after a night out with friends, realizing later that you accidentally picked up someone else's drink at the bar and unwittingly consumed an illegal substance. Shortly after, you find yourself arrested for committing a crime while under the influence. Is intoxication a defense in Arizona? The answer depends on whether your intoxication was voluntary or involuntary.

Voluntary Intoxication and Criminal Liability

Voluntary intoxication refers to the consumption of drugs or alcohol that an individual willingly and knowingly ingests. In Arizona, voluntary intoxication is generally not a defense for committing a crime. This means that if you commit an offense while voluntarily intoxicated, you are still criminally liable for any actions you take under the influence. However, Arizona law does allow voluntary intoxication as a defense in certain circumstances.

For instance, if you were so intoxicated that you completely lacked the mental state required to commit the crime, you could present a defense to the charges. In addition, if you were not aware that your actions were illegal due to the intoxication, you may be able to argue that you had no mens rea, or criminal intent, to commit the crime in question.

Involuntary Intoxication and Criminal Defense

Involuntary intoxication occurs when an individual ingests a substance without knowledge or against their will. In Arizona, involuntary intoxication can serve as a viable defense in criminal cases. However, the defense primarily applies to specific intent crimes, which are offenses that require proof of an intended mental state. Examples of specific intent crimes include fraud or burglary.

When it comes to involuntary intoxication, there are two different types: complete and partial. Complete involuntary intoxication occurs when an individual is completely unaware that they are ingesting a substance that could cause intoxication, and as a result, they form no intent to commit a crime. Partial involuntary intoxication occurs when an individual consumes a substance of which they are aware, but the substance causes them to become intoxicated beyond what they expected or intended. In such cases, individuals may be charged with crimes, but their charges may be reduced or dismissed based on the facts of the case and the level of involuntary intoxication.

An Example of Involuntary Intoxication

Involuntary intoxication cases have appeared in the Arizona court system. An example of such a case is the 2011 State of Arizona v. Christine Brenda Chancellor. Chancellor was charged with leaving the scene of an accident with injury. Chancellor's defense argued that her voluntary use of prescription medications for depression and anxiety had mixed with a medical prescription that had been prescribed to her husband. The resulting involuntary intoxication led her to experience blackouts, memory loss, and disorientation.

Chancellor had a history of depression and anxiety, but her physician had not warned her about the potential side effects of using the medication while driving. While Chancellor was driving, she blacked out and hit a pedestrian, then left the scene. The defense successfully argued that Chancellor's mental state was impaired due to her involuntary intoxication, and her charges were reduced from a felony to a misdemeanor.

Arizona Law and the Defense of Involuntary Intoxication

The defense of involuntary intoxication in Arizona is complex and requires a thorough understanding of the law. The defense applies only to specific intent crimes, and it is up to the defendant and their attorneys to prove that the intoxication was beyond their control. If you believe that involuntary intoxication may be a defense in your case, it is essential to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney to assess your options.

The Importance of Understanding the Difference

Voluntary and involuntary intoxication can affect how criminal charges are dealt with in a court of law. If you are facing criminal charges in Arizona, it is critical to understand the difference between voluntary and involuntary intoxication. While voluntary intoxication rarely serves as a defense to criminal charges, involuntary intoxication can offer a viable defense in specific circumstances.

Overall, if your charges are affected by your intoxication, contact a criminal defense attorney to guide you through your options. Involuntary intoxication is a complex defense, and an experienced attorney can help determine whether it applies in your case.

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