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From DUI to DC Court – What is the process?
The Stages of a DUI in the District of Columbia
Being pulled over by the police on suspicion of DUI starts the process for DUI in the District of Columbia.
This is your first appearance in Court. The officer gave you a citation to appear in Court. You will be scheduled to appear in D.C. Superior Court – Courtroom 115 Judge Wingo, Courtroom 116 Judge Howze or Court 120 Judge Brandt. Which courtroom you are scheduled to appear is based on the District you were arrested in. You should have an attorney at your arraignment date. If you do not have an attorney the Judge will give you additional time to get an attorney or if you cannot afford an attorney, an attorney will be appointed. You will plead not guilty at arraignment even if you think you are guilty as sin. Remember your case has not been investigated, consulted or prepared by an attorney. The court will set a new court date referred to as a status hearing. This is usually 2 to 3 weeks after the arraignment date.
The status hearing is for you and your attorney to make a decision whether to divert(if an option) plea or set a trial. At this point you the case should have been investigated, consulted and prepared for you to make an informed decision on whether to plea to the DUI charges.
The status hearing is for you and your attorney to make a decision whether to divert(if an option) plea or set a trial. At this point you the case should have been investigated, consulted and prepared for you to make an informed decision on whether to plea to the DUI charges.
If you are found guilty, sentencing may be continued to a different day or you may go to sentencing immediately. This should be discussed with your experienced DUI attorney before the start of trial process. You must be prepared for all outcome