Your first appearance in a courtroom after an arrest for driving under the influence (DUI) can be stressful. Your first formal hearing before the court will be for your arraignment, and one of our experienced DUI defense attorneys could help guide you through the Key West DUI arraignment process.
Our team at Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC, understands that making your first court appearance can feel challenging. We can explain the arraignment process and answer your questions about how it will proceed. Contact us today to discuss your pending DUI charges.
A DUI arraignment is the first formal hearing in a criminal matter. At your arraignment, you will be advised of your legal rights, the official charges will be read to you, and you will enter a plea. Typically, this will be a not guilty plea to allow time for obtaining and reviewing evidence related to your case.
At the arraignment, the court may also address bail and other conditions of release. There will also be scheduling of future court hearings. Although the DUI arraignment process can feel overwhelming, one of our Key West attorneys could answer your questions and help you move forward with confidence.
At a DUI arraignment, the court will review all your legal rights, including the right to remain silent. You do not need to make any statements at this time. There will be an explanation of the potential penalties if there is a conviction. The maximum punishment can vary based on your blood alcohol level, prior DUI convictions, and other aggravating circumstances.
At the arraignment, you have a right to have the court review your bond. It may modify the conditions of the bond, including restricting your alcohol use while the matter is pending. The court will also inform you that you have the right to review all evidence that the prosecution intends to present against you.
You also have the right to obtain legal representation to assist you at the DUI arraignment, and your Key West attorney may be able to appear on your behalf during this process.
Whether or not you must personally attend the arraignment may depend upon if you have an attorney representing you or not. If you do not have legal representation, you must personally appear at your arraignment. If you do, your attorney could obtain your written permission to appear on your behalf and enter a not guilty plea.
If you do not hire an attorney and you do not appear, the court may issue a warrant for your arrest. One of our knowledgeable lawyers could help you navigate the DUI arraignment process in Key West and answer your questions.
Being arrested for DUI and making your first court appearance can feel scary. One of our experienced attorneys could explain the Key West DUI arraignment process and help guide you through the steps.
At Keys Criminal Defense, PLLC, we help individuals understand their legal rights and the criminal justice system. Contact our team today to discuss your case.
