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DUI charges can be dropped at an arraignment hearing, but this usually does not happen. At an arraignment hearing, the judge will read your charges and your rights, and you will enter your plea.
The prosecutor has the power to dismiss your charges, but you must have compelling evidence that you were wrongly charged. A Los Angeles DUI lawyer can work to get your charges dropped or your sentence reduced by negotiating a plea bargain with the prosecutor.
The sooner you contact a lawyer, the better they can prepare for your DUI arraignment hearing. They can investigate your arrest to determine if your rights were violated and work toward the best possible outcome in your case.
What to Expect From a DUI Arraignment Hearing
An arraignment hearing is the first step in the court’s process of charging you with a DUI. This hearing takes place after you are arrested, and you may be out on bail. You can expect the following things to happen during arraignment:
- The judge will inform you of your rights, including the right to hire an attorney.
- The judge will inform you of your charges.
- The judge may also set or modify your bail.
- You will have a chance to enter your plea of guilty, no contest, or not guilty.
Your attorney can represent you at your arraignment hearing. If you face felony DUI charges and if your DUI involved bodily harm or death, you will also have to make an appearance.
If you plead guilty or no contest, the judge will proceed to sentencing. If you plead not guilty, they will set a date for your trial.
The Importance of Hiring a DUI Attorney Before Your Arraignment Hearing
DUI charges are serious, and a conviction can affect your life in many ways. It’s important to get started on your defense as soon as possible by contacting a DUI attorney. You will want to do this before your arraignment hearing for two reasons:
- An attorney can investigate your arrest and may be able to prove to the prosecutor that you were wrongly charged under California Vehicle Code 23152(a) or California Vehicle Code 23152(b). This may result in the prosecutor dropping your charges.
- An attorney can investigate the evidence in your case and negotiate a plea deal with the prosecutor. This requires you to plead guilty, but it would also reduce the sentence you face with a conviction.
There is much to do when preparing for a DUI case, and you will want to give yourself the best chance of receiving a favorable outcome. A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can get to work immediately after you contact them.
A DUI Lawyer Can Use Several Defense Strategies Aimed at the Dismissal of Your Charges
There are several defense strategies a DUI attorney can use to seek a dismissal of your charges. Keep in mind that every case is unique. Your lawyer will investigate your arrest and charges to determine the best legal strategy for your specific situation.
Here are some examples of defense strategies a DUI attorney in Los Angeles may use:
- Identify inconsistencies and discrepancies in the arresting officer’s testimony
- Determine that the sobriety field tests used, such as a breathalyzer test or blood test, were inconclusive or inadmissible under the law.
- Illustrate that your arrest was unlawful, such as if the arresting officer failed to read your rights.
- Demonstrate that the arresting officer had no probable cause to pull you over in the first place.
- Explore reasons for a refusal of a sobriety field test
- Gather evidence, such as video surveillance that contradicts eyewitness testimony and the arresting officer’s statements.
Possible defense strategies can be discussed during a free consultation with a DUI lawyer. The sooner you contact one, the better they can design your specific defense strategy.
Working Toward the Best Possible Outcome for Your DUI Case
Dismissal of DUI charges is not always possible, either during your arraignment hearing or after. If this is the case, an attorney will work to reduce your sentence. This may or may not involve accepting a plea deal or going to trial. The purpose of a plea bargain is to reduce your sentence and avoid going to trial.
Ultimately, your attorney will aim for a reduction of fines and jail time. Depending on whether this is your first DUI offense or not, a lawyer may be able to help you avoid jail time entirely. You may just have to complete a probation or parole period.
A legal team can also help you get your driver’s license reinstated. Remember, this is always contingent on the particulars of your case. Either way, your attorney will guide you through the process.
Contact a Los Angeles DUI Law Firm Today to Get Started on Your Defense
Time is of the essence when you are facing DUI charges. Before your arraignment hearing, contact a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles. They can begin investigating your arrest and negotiating with the prosecutor to obtain the best possible outcome for you.
During a free initial consultation, they can explain how they may be able to get your DUI charges dropped or reduced. They can represent you at your arraignment hearing and prepare you if you have to make an appearance.
Take your defense seriously. Get started immediately to help protect your rights.