I have always been someone who loves to stay on the right side of justice, which is probably why I shied away from hanging out with the wrong crowd all growing up. Unfortunately, I found myself with someone when they committed a criminal act a few years ago, and it really hurt my case. It was amazing to see just how damaging those initial charges were to my self-confidence, and I knew that I had to do something to make things right. I began focusing on working with the right lawyer to clear my name, and within a few days, things were looking up. Check out this website to learn more about criminal attorneys.
The Steps And Stages Of A DWI Case
If you have never dealt with the aftermath of a DWI, or driving under the influence, you might not be prepared for the hours, days, and weeks to come. The eventual penalty and outcome of a DWI can vary greatly depending upon the driver's blood alcohol level, past offenses, and several other factors. However, the steps involved in a DWI are often very similar.
Here are a few steps and stages you can expect if you are ever pulled over for a DWI.
You Are Stopped By the Police
From weaving around in traffic to driving too fast or being seen getting behind the wheel after leaving a bar, there are several reasons why a police officer might pull you over for suspicion of driving under the influence. The officer will ask to see your license, tell you why you are being pulled over, and ask you to perform a series of sobriety tests, including a breathalyzer.
If there is enough evidence based upon the field test for the officer to believe you are driving under the influence, you will be arrested. Depending upon where you live and the circumstances of the arrest, you could be detained or sent to a detoxification facility.
Contact a DWI lawyer immediately, when you are allowed to use the phone. Your attorney can help determine the best way to help you move on with your case, including posting bail.
Your License Is Suspended
One major consequence of being arrested for suspicion of a DWI is losing your license. The length of time you will lose your license will depend upon where you live and if this is your first offense. Talk to your attorney about the possibility of fighting your driver's license suspension and arrange for an extension of your temporary license. This will allow you to continue driving to work.
Your Arraignment, Plea Bargain, and Trial
Finally, the first of the final stages is the arraignment before a judge. You will either plead guilt or not guilty, depending on the recommendation of your attorney. After the arraignment, your defense attorney may work with the prosecution to arrange a plea deal.
If you plead not guilty and there is no plea deal, the next step is a preliminary trial. Your attorney will present evidence in your defense. A final trial will then occur if no plea deal is reached after the preliminary trial.
If you are ever pulled over for driving under the influence, there are several stages and steps that will typically occur. Contact an attorney immediately if you are arrested to ensure you get through the process quickly and can begin to enjoy your life again.