Getting ready for a DUI Arraignment
If you have been stopped by the police and subjected to tests that indicate to the officer that you are driving under the influence of drugs or liquor, you will be taken to the police station and charged with DUI. After you have been charged you will be arraigned in court, most people do not know what an arraignment is let alone know what to expect. An arraignment is when the charges that have been brought against you are formally read; at this time the accused has the opportunity to plead innocent or guilty.
To prepare for arraignment it is a good idea to have hired a DUI lawyer in West Georgia who can tell you what punishment to expect based on the charge and to determine if it looks possible that the charges can be reduced or perhaps even dropped.
At the arraignment you can plead your innocence or admit to your guilt. In many cases a guilty plea will bring instant sentencing as many states have a set penalty that the judge gives. If you plead not guilty to the DUI charge, the case will be continued and a court date will be set for a later time. There are cases where the defendant has multiple convictions of DUI and the judge may set bail for the release of the convicted individual.
As it is everyone’s right to have a lawyer and have the DUI lawyer in West Georgia present at the arraignment. The judge will ask if you have a lawyer, if you have not arranged for your own lawyer the court can appoint one if you so request. It is always best to have your own lawyer and to hire him prior to the arraignment so you can be guided on what to expect and how to handle it. After listening to your side of the story and studying the charge sheet the lawyer can advise you whether to plead guilty or innocent.
You may be tempted to simply plead guilty and get the issue behind you, especially if it is a first offense and you have a clean record otherwise. Your lawyer will usually suggest that you do not do this as you will end up with a criminal record and be subjected to heavy penalties, a plea of not guilty will allow the lawyer to work on getting a suitable verdict. Click here for more details.
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ALENA GOLDMAN
Alena Goldman is a prolific writer renowned for her expertise in crafting informative articles and engaging blog posts across a wide array of subjects. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for research, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her writing endeavors. Alena's versatile writing style allows her to delve into diverse topics, ranging from technology and science to travel and lifestyle. Her dedication to providing readers with well-researched, insightful content has garnered her a loyal following. Alena's articles are characterized by their clarity, depth, and ability to distill complex information into easily understandable insights. Whether she's exploring the latest advancements in artificial intelligence or sharing tips for sustainable living, Alena has a knack for captivating audiences and sparking meaningful conversations. With years of experience in the field, Alena has established herself as a trusted voice in the world of online content creation. Her commitment to excellence, coupled with her innate curiosity and passion for learning, continues to drive her writing forward, making her a sought-after writer in the digital landscape. When she's not immersed in research or crafting compelling narratives, Alena enjoys exploring nature, experimenting with new recipes, and embarking on adventures near and far.
