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DUI Court Processing in Washington

In Washington state each jurisdiction has different DUI court processing variations, The following information may not apply to all drunk driving situations in Washington State. The best place to get detailed and exact information on you process if you have been charged with DUI is a professional lawyer that specializes in DUI defense.

 
 

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Washington Processing Steps

Basically the DUI court processing in Washington State will take you as a defendant through 5 important steps they are:

  • Arraignment
  • Pre-trial conference
  • Motions
  • Readiness hearing
  • Trial

DUI Court Processing Arraignment

The first court process after a drunk driving arrest is the Arraignment. At the arraignment, the charges you face will be made clear to you and you will be allowed to plead guilty or innocent. Your DUI lawyer will advise you on which to choose. Based on your decision will be either sentenced, or bail will be set. The amount of bail depends on the details of your case.

DUI Pretrial Conference

The pretrial conference is designed to check on the progress of your case. Issues will be discussed between the judge, your attorney, and the prosecutor. Sometimes the prosecutor will offer a plea bargain and your DUI defense team will decide what is best in this case.

DUI Motions Hearing Process

A DUI defense lawyer usually requests motion hearings. At this hearing the lawyer will present motion to the judge on such matters as witnesses, evidence and procedures at your trial.

DUI Readiness Hearing

This hearing is held 7 days before your trial date. The hearing confirms that everything is ready for trial. Scheduling conflicts may be discussed as well as any new plea agreements.

The Trial

The majority of DUI trials in Washington last about 1 to 2 days, however certain variables could increase this. You may receive a bench trial or a jury trial. With a jury trial, there are 6 jurors that determine what is fact, and the judge determines law issues. With bench trails, a judge does both. Your lawyer will decide which is best for you.

During the trial, a final decision on your guilt or innocents will be decided. If you are found guilty, a penalty will be imposed and you will be allowed to file an appeal. If you or someone you known has been arrested for DUI in Washington, it is vital that you seek professional help in guiding you through the DUI court process in Washington.