What happens in a DUI arraignment?

If you are stopped and arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), a series of processes are set in motion. Although these processes may vary by state, the basic sequence is:

1. Booking
2. Arraignment
3. Court Date
4. Sentencing (if convicted)

What is Arraignment?

At your arraignment you will have your charges read to you and you will be asked if you need representation. As you may have in heard in any of the multitude of TV crime shows, if you can’t afford an attorney, the court may assign one to you. Lastly, you will be asked to how you plead to your charges. Because most people plead guilty at this phase, either because they lack adequate knowledge or the evidence against them appears overwhelming, this is as far as most DUI arraignments go. Sentencing is passed and the person must now deal with the consequences

Advantages of an Experienced DUI Attorney

Besides taking the time to become familiar with the proper way to behave should you be stopped on suspicion of DUI, there are advantages to securing competent council as soon as possible after the stop as possible. Being stopped can be a chaotic event for someone unfamiliar with with the process and it is possible that you might miss an important point that could help you defend yourself in court. Having a legal professional on your side can give you the information you need to dismiss charges once you arrive in court. In addition, experienced council can greatly assist in guiding through your arraignment. Legal proceedings can seem to happen very quickly for the uninitiated and competent council can help reduce the stress on you at that time.

If You Decide to Plead Not Guilty

If you decide to plead not guilty at your arraignment (which is expected), you will have a court date set for your trial. Although you will have the opportunity to represent yourself during the trial, this is usually have bad ideal. Without familiarity with court procedures, it is likely that you will make a mistake that could end up costing you in multiple ways. Your best chance during a trial is to have experienced council at your side. In-depth knowledge of the nuances that state legal systems have can make the difference between having a case dismissed, onerous sentences or, in some cases, acquittal. If you have been arrested for DUI, contact and hire an experienced attorney immediately.