The Time Frame for a DUI Case in Los Angeles
We can help you review the general time frame used for DUI cases here in Los Angeles. Many drivers are not sure what to expect after a DUI arrest. Generally, your first appearance in court will be for an arraignment hearing. During this hearing you:
- Will learn what charges you are facing
- Will plead not guilty, guilty, or no contest
After your arraignment, the case enters a period of discovery. Your lawyer can investigate your charges and gather evidence during this period. After this, your lawyer can file pre-trial motions. Some of these motions are filed at the pre-trial hearing.
Lawyers can also work to secure plea bargains for many DUI cases in Los Angeles. Plea bargains are deals with the prosecution that allow you to resolve a criminal charge out of court. These deals are usually arranged before your criminal trial begins.
After all pre-trial motions are resolved, a judge makes sure both sides are ready to proceed to trial. This allows your case to go to criminal court, where you can receive a verdict from a jury.
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DUI Pre-Trial Motions in California
As we mentioned, a DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can file motions at your pre-trial hearing. These hearings are usually only attended by the defense, the prosecution, and a judge. They are not as crowded as criminal trials. Some common examples of DUI pre-trial motions include a:
Motion to Suppress
A motion to suppress asks the judge to block certain evidence. For example, let’s say that a police officer illegally searched your vehicle during a DUI arrest. Any evidence found in this search would therefore be inadmissible.
Request for a Pitchess Hearing
Pitchess hearings allow your lawyer to focus on the past actions of the officer who arrested you. Sometimes, police officers have a history of making incorrect arrests. This kind of hearing could help strengthen your defense.
Motion to Dismiss
Your lawyer can also make a motion to have your charges dismissed. A lawyer could argue you were stopped without reasonable cause. In this situation, the court can set aside the charges you are facing. Find out more about pre-trial motions by calling (310) 896-2723. Get legal answers today from the Simmrin Law Group.
Plea Bargains and the Pre-Trial Period of a DUI Case
Many DUI cases in California end with a plea bargain. A plea bargain is a special deal arranged with the prosecution. You have to plead guilty to a lesser charge to accept a plea bargain. In return, you should face lessened penalties.
However, not all plea bargains are in your best interests. The prosecution may encourage you to take a deal that works against you. Allow a lawyer to look over any deal you are offered before you accept it in Los Angeles.
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and DUI Pre-Trials
As we mentioned, it can take time to begin a criminal trial after a DUI arrest. During this time, a lawyer can also help with your Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) hearing. You can request a DMV hearing within 10 days of a DUI arrest. If you do not request this hearing, the DMV can automatically suspend your license.
We know how to handle a DMV hearing for you. We can take steps to protect your driving privileges while focusing on your pre-trial needs. Get additional information about your options by reaching out to us right now.
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Ask a Lawyer What to Expect at a DUI Pre-Trial Hearing
Contact the Simmrin Law Group to find out what to expect at a pre-trial hearing for a DUI charge. Our Los Angeles DUI lawyers are standing by to answer all of your legal questions now. We’ll also focus on building a strong defense for you. Just contact us by calling (310) 896-2723. We also have an online contact form for you.
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