If you’ve been accused of driving while intoxicated, your DWI attorney will strive to negotiate a fair settlement with the prosecutor. However, in some cases, a courtroom trial may be your best option. This can be overwhelming for those who don’t have much experience with the legal system, but knowing what to expect during the trial can help you achieve the best possible outcome.

The Steps of a DWI Case

1. Arraignment

The arraignment is your first court appearance, usually taking place within three days of your arrest. At this hearing, the judge will read the charges against you, allow you to enter a plea, and set bail if you haven’t been released already.

2. Preliminary Hearing

Before a criminal trial can begin, a judge has to agree that the state has a strong enough case to move forward. At the preliminary hearing, the prosecutor will lay out all the evidence against you, including the results of blood alcohol tests and your own statements.

3. Pre-Trial Motions

During a traffic stop, police are required to follow strict protocols designed to protect your rights. If your DWI attorney believes the officers failed to follow the law, they may file pre-trial motions to have the resulting evidence thrown out.

4. Trial

The courtroom trial is the longest part of any criminal case. During the trial, the prosecutor will present the evidence against you to a jury. In response, your DWI attorney will challenge their conclusions, cross-examine witnesses, and call witnesses to defend you.

5. Sentencing

If the jury finds you guilty of driving while intoxicated, the judge will issue penalties in a separate hearing. In North Carolina, anyone convicted of a first offense faces fines of up to $200, a maximum 60-day jail sentence, and a suspension of their driving privileges.

A DWI is a serious charge, so you need an aggressive legal team that understands the law and is committed to fighting for your rights. With nearly 20 years’ experience, the DWI attorneys at Fulcher Law Firm in Albemarle, NC, provide representation to defendants throughout Montgomery and Stanly counties, and will deliver the best plea possible for a reduced rate. Follow their Twitter for legal news and updates, learn more about their practice areas online, or call (704) 984-6060 to schedule a consultation today.