Stages Of A DUI-Defense Trial Explained

No one expects to be arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), and popular courtroom dramas tend to skip over most of the stages of any trial, so you may be uncertain of how your DUI case will proceed after you are arrested.

 

Knowing the stages of a DUI trial can benefit you in a number of ways. You may be better able to plan for your trial, and you will better understand why hiring a DUI defense attorney is so important. Your attorney will be by your side at every step, fighting for your rights to ensure that your trial ends in the most favorable way possible.

If you have been arrested and charged with a DUI, we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible. At the Law Offices of Michael M. Raheb, P.A., we are committed to standing by our clients, keeping them informed at each step of the trial. Let us help design your DUI defense in Fort Myers. To schedule a free consultation, Call Us At 866-949-0888 Today!

Booking And Bail

After you are arrested, you will most likely be booked at a police station, where you will be held until a judge determines whether or not you qualify for bail. If you qualify, you will be detained until you pay the amount set by the court.

DUI Arraignment

Dui Lawyer Now explains that you will have the opportunity to formally respond to the DUI charge and any other charges that have been levied against you. Your attorney can help you decide whether to plead not guilty, guilty or no contest based on your situation.

Preliminary Hearing

A preliminary hearing may be short, but it can be very important. During the hearing, your judge will hear a truncated argument from both sides to determine whether there is enough evidence to warrant a trial. It is important to point out that the judge is not concerned with the issue of guilt. Instead, they are determining whether the prosecution has met its burden of proof.

If not, your trial may be dismissed before it begins.

Pre-Trial Motions

Motions are one of the main reasons you need an attorney. During the pre-trial motions, the judge and both lawyers discuss what type of evidence will be admissible and who may testify.

The Trial

You are most likely familiar with what a trial entails. Both sides make their case, and a judge or jury determines whether you are guilty or innocent.

Sentencing

If you are found innocent, you will not be sentenced. However, if the jury determines that you are guilty, you may be sentenced to a fine, jail time, a period of probation, community service or a counseling program.

It is not uncommon to have a large number of questions about your trial and what you should expect, which is why we offer a free case evaluation to give you the opportunity to ask your questions and receive legal advice. To schedule a consultation, Call Us At 866-949-0888 Today!