After a DUI arrest, you’ll be scheduled for arraignment. During arraignment, you’ll have the opportunity to enter a plea and sort out a number of details pertaining to your case. For many individuals, a DUI arraignment is the first time they set foot in criminal court. In this blog, our Denver DUI attorney explains what happens during arraignment and what you can expect.
Representation
In some DUI cases, a defendant has the option to have his or her attorney appear on his or her behalf. If, for whatever reason, you do not have a lawyer, you’ll be given the option of having a public defender appointed to your represent you in court. The courts will strongly suggest that you avoid representing yourself. For this reason, it’s imperative that you secure representation immediately after a DUI arrest.
What are your options?
You have to decide whether you’ll be pleading guilty or not guilty to your charge. Although having an attorney represent you during your arraignment is considered unnecessary by some, you’ll have to make a decision on how you’ll be pleading – you’ll want to have an understanding of your legal options beforehand.
Waiving Time
At your arraignment, the judge will also ask you waive time. Waiving time simply means that you won’t be holding the court to any strict or vigorous deadlines for holding a trial, should your case go to trial. Should you choose to waive time and change your mind later, you and your attorney can request to withdraw your initial time waiver.
If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, do not hesitate to secure the representation you need to combat these charges. Whether this is your first DUI or a subsequent offense, you can trust that our Denver DUI attorney will vigorously protect your rights every step of the way.
The Law Office of Joseph A. Lazzara, P.C. proudly represents clients in Damas, Jefferson, Douglas, and Arapahoe Counties. Call (720) 809-8262 to request a free consultation.