If you’re driving after consuming a few drinks, seeing the flashing red and blue lights in your rear-view mirror can be terrifying. The process that follows can be just as scary, especially if you don’t know what to expect.
If you are pulled over and arrested for a DUI, there are many steps in the process you will have to go through. It’s essential to hire a DUI attorney to represent you and help you understand each and every step along the way. After your initial arrest (and potential night in jail), here is what you could have to face:
Attend an Arraignment
This is your first court appearance and is where you will officially be charged with a DUI. Your arraignment – where you will enter your plea – typically takes place within a few days of your arrest.
This is not a trial – but you should have your DUI attorney present to help you through the process. The arraignment is generally pretty matter-of-fact and covers basic information:
- Your identity is confirmed.
- You will hear the charges against you.
- You will enter a plea of not guilty and you will be given your next court date and time
This is a basic process, but it’s essential to show up for it. Failure to appear in court can result in a warrant for your arrest, additional charges, and the loss of eligibility for certain programs, such as Diversion. If you’re unsure of the severity of the penalties and the importance of appearing in court, talk to your DUI attorney about the possible repercussions.
Get the Evidence Against You
After your arraignment, you will enter the discovery process. This is when your attorney can start to evaluate the evidence against you. Typically, this includes the police report and your field sobriety or blood test.
Reviewing this information will help your attorney plan your defense.
Attend Your Trial
Your DUI attorney will lead the charge during your trial. They will try to present evidence to show doubt in the prosecutor’s claims. You could be facing extreme penalties – including jail time, license suspension, and hefty fines. Because of this, it’s essential to follow your DUI attorney’s instructions and guidance. They have been through these DUI trials with numerous other clients, so it’s critical to take their advice.
There are certain actions you can take to help your case. A lot of these are based on your actions and behaviors in court. It’s critical to follow your attorney’s tips on what to wear. Your outfit will make your first impression on the judge or jury. Your attorney will also direct you on how to act in the courtroom. It’s crucial to be respectful to the judge and others in the courtroom.
Why You Need a DUI Attorney
When you’re facing DUI charges, it’s essential to hire an experienced DUI attorney. You need someone on your side who knows the ins and outs of the legal system. Tapping into this know-how can help you potentially avoid jail time, expensive fines, and other penalties.
Let Us Help You
If you are facing DUI charges in Portland, let our lawyers at The Law Offices of Alexzander C.J. Adams, P.C. help prepare you for what to expect and help you try to reduce your penalties. Going this alone – or without an experienced attorney – can put your future, your finances, and your freedom at risk. We work for you, the people, and not institutions. Contact us for a free case evaluation, or no-obligation consultation. We are dedicated to helping you overcome this small bump in the road and assisting you to get on with your life.
