DUI Trial

Each year, thousands of people just like you are arrested for DUI. Although for most, it is their first brush with the law, it is nonetheless a terrifying ordeal. Fortunately, familiarizing yourself with the DUI trial process can help reduce your fears.

It is important to seek professional legal advice if you have been charged with DUI. An experienced attorney will know more about your state’s DUI laws, and he or she can use this information to create a strong defense strategy for your case. Indeed, having an attorney represent you during your DUI trial will not only help to reduce the stress you are feeling, but also increase the chances of having your charges reduced or dropped entirely.

It is also important that you know what to expect following your DUI arrest. Contrary to what you may have heard, a DUI charge does not automatically result in a conviction. In fact, there are several court proceedings that you must attend before you can be convicted of driving under the influence.

Up first is the arraignment, which is where you will hear the charges against you and enter your plea of guilt or innocence. If you plead guilty, you will most likely be sentenced right then and there. If, however, you plead not guilty, the judge will set the dates for all further courtroom proceedings.

Next, you may have to attend a preliminary hearing (although in some states this hearing is not required). At this time, the judge will review all of the evidence against you to determine whether there is enough probable cause to warrant a trial.

The pre-trial motions follow your preliminary hearing. During this procedure, both the prosecution and the defense present their arguments for submitting or excluding evidence to be used in your DUI trial. For example, if your defense attorney can prove that the arresting officer did not inform you of your Miranda rights before your arrest, any statements you made cannot be used against you.

After pre-trial motions, the actual DUI trial begins. At this time, the prosecution and defense will present their case to a jury. Once both sides have made their arguments, the jury will deliberate and determine a verdict.

If you are found guilty, your DUI trial ends here. If, however, the jury decides you are guilty, you will be sentenced to criminal penalties such as jail time, community service, or probation.

Due to the numerous steps in the DUI trial process, it is important to seek help from a qualified legal professional as soon after your arrest as you possible. Contact a DUI attorney in your area today to learn more about the DUI trial process.