The Role Of A DUI Lawyer: What To Expect During Your Legal Proceedings

Getting stopped and arrested for DUI is the beginning of a lengthy legal process with many steps and procedures. Although each DUI case has its merits, the processes followed are usually the same, but the details might change slightly.

Most DUI cases start with a traffic stop, followed by some field sobriety tests, and if law enforcement has enough evidence, you may be arrested and charged.

What To Expect During The Legal Proceedings

There are various phases of the legal proceedings, each preceding the other. Being well-informed at each step is essential for staying mentally prepared.

• Arraignment:
  During arraignment, the judge will read out your charges and require you to enter a plea. Bail and bail conditions will also be set during this time, and the determination of whether you will be released pending your next court date.
• Pre-trial Hearings:
  During pre-trial hearings, the court will address any legal motions raised by your attorney, examine the evidence, and also look into any plea deals if you agree to them with the prosecution. Your DUI lawyer can also use this opportunity to try and resolve the case without going to trial.
• Plea Bargain:
  In plea bargaining, you can negotiate a deal with the prosecutor, which could lead to reduced penalties and charges. The plea deal might be beneficial, but you should always weigh the pros and cons because accepting a plea deal essentially means you’re giving up your right to a trial.
• Trial:
  If you don’t settle on a plea bargain or don’t want a plea, the next step in the DUI legal process is the trial. During the trial, your DUI lawyer will challenge the prosecution’s evidence and also present your defense.
• Sentencing:
  If you’re found guilty or accept a plea deal, sentencing will take place. The judge considers various factors such as your criminal history, mitigating circumstances, and severity of the offense before deciding on the penalties.

What Is The Role Of A DUI Lawyer?

Although most DUI cases in Charleston, SC, are misdemeanors, it doesn’t mean they are easy to handle. Also, you shouldn’t take any chances with the case, considering the consequences of DUI, including fines, probation, license suspension, and potential jail time.

You can give your DUI case the best chances by working with an experienced DUI lawyer. The lawyer plays various roles, including:

Investigation

When you first get in touch with a DUI lawyer in Charleston or Daniel Island, SC, the first thing they will want to do is conduct their investigation and gather as much evidence as possible. They will gather information and witness statements that will help them with defense strategizing and picking out weak points in the prosecution’s case.

Defense Strategy

After analyzing the case and the evidence, the lawyer’s next task is to develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances. The defense strategy could include:

• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop
• Questioning the accuracy of the sobriety tests
• Disputing the accuracy of the blood tests or the breathalyzer

Negotiation

In some DUI cases, the lawyer has to negotiate with the prosecution for plea bargains on your behalf. With the right negotiation skills and circumstances, the negotiation could result in reduced charges and penalties. This can substantially reduce the consequences of DUI.

Legal Advice

The DUI lawyer near me you choose to work with will also provide you with legal advice on the case. This begins with helping you understand the charges, the severity of the case, and the potential penalties associated with the charges.

The lawyer has the duty to provide you with accurate information and a clear understanding of the potential outcome, as well as how you should conduct yourself to minimize the impact of these penalties.

Representation In Court

Should your case make it to trial, it is the DUI lawyer’s duty to represent you and advocate on your behalf. They will present evidence, make legal arguments, defend you against the charges, and cross-examine witnesses.

Deal With License Suspension Challenges

Typically, one of the consequences of DUI is the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license. It’s the lawyer’s duty to challenge the administrative penalties and reinstate your driving privileges.

Emotional Support

Besides the legal work, a DUI lawyer can also play a crucial role in emotional support. The DUI legal process can be taxing, and the lawyer can provide you with the emotional support you need to deal with the stress and anxiety that comes with the case.

Make The Right Decision Contact Us Today!

It’s not enough to know what to expect during your DUI legal proceedings. You also need a lawyer who understands the nuances of the case, can defend your rights, and can work towards getting you the best outcome. At Sahn Law Firm, we specialize in DUIs and have over a decade of experience representing clients in South Carolina.

We understand the legal and emotional aspects of a DUI case and are prepared to be the DUI lawyer near me you need to support you through the proceedings. Call us today at (843) 856-2222 or text us at (843) 273-8221 for a free consultation and to get started on your case.

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