The Court Process for a Los Angeles DUI

Los Angeles DUI Lawyer

Providing dedicated legal counsel through every phase of your Los Angeles DUI case is a primary concern of our law firm. At the Law Offices of Loren M. Merlin, we understand that every step we take has the potential to make a difference in the outcome of your case. When you work with our DUI defense lawyer, we will therefore provide committed legal representation through the entire court process. This is the criminal side of your case and involves the charges you face in criminal court. This operates separately and independently from your DMV hearing, which addresses your potential license suspension.

Although this may vary depending on your particular case, the following is a basic overview of the DUI court process in Los Angeles, California:

Arraignment – this is the first stage of the criminal process and will typically be your first court appearance. You will be informed of your charges and will need to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty or no contest. If you plead not guilty, your case will go to the next phase.

Pre-Trial Motions – before the trial begins, your Los Angeles DUI attorney will have the opportunity to carefully scrutinize all evidence against you in order to begin building a defense against your charges. He or she may also have the opportunity to file specific motions, such as a motion to suppress evidence, to positively impact your case before it reaches trial.

Plea Bargaining – another stage before a trial may involve the prosecuting attorney offering a plea bargain to a defendant. You are not obligated to accept a plea bargain but should instead review this with your lawyer to determine whether it is truly in your best interests. A plea bargain typically involves a defendant pleading guilty to a lesser charge or penalties.

Trial – although many cases settle before trial, if your DUI case goes to trial you can expect to hear opening statements by each side, the examination and cross-examination of witnesses, closing arguments, jury deliberation, and finally the verdict.

Sentencing  – upon a guilty verdict, a judge will determine sentencing. Specific DUI penalties in Los Angeles may vary depending on the specific case.

Though the DUI court process has the potential to be highly complex, we have the drive and dedication to seek the best possible result in every stage. Contact a Los Angeles DUI Attorney today!