Court Process in Grafton WV

DUI Court Dates Arraignment and Final Plea in West Virginia

If you face DUI charges in Grafton, West Virginia, your court process begins once those charges are officially filed. Following a detailed investigation, including testing such as sobriety evaluations, speech analysis, and examining eye reaction, authorities may determine your Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) exceeds permissible limits. Should this occur, you could be immediately charged with DUI and potentially arrested on the spot. Depending on the circumstances, you may be held in custody in accordance with legal protocols or released on bond, which guarantees your appearance at court proceedings and future court dates.

What Does DUI Arraignment Mean?

A DUI arraignment is the initial step in the courtroom process. During this procedure, you are brought before a judge who will explain your legal rights and formally present the charges against you. At this stage, you may either plead guilty or not guilty. This process typically takes place shortly after your arrest in lower court, often without the presence of your attorney.

Filing Pre-Trial Motions

Before a DUI case goes to trial, lawyers for the state and the defense must file pre-trial motions. These motions help establish the parameters for the legal proceedings. Examples of pre-trial motions include requests to allow or suppress certain evidence, determining whether witnesses can testify, and whether the case should go to trial or be dismissed altogether.

If you have a skilled Grafton DUI attorney by your side, this is also the stage where plea deals are often negotiated. A plea deal can significantly impact the case, potentially allowing you to avoid jail time and instead serve probation. With the help of an attorney from Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, you can assess options to make an informed decision about accepting a deal.

What Happens When a DUI Trial Begins?

If your DUI case proceeds to trial, the process begins with jury selection. Both the prosecution and the defense have the opportunity to question potential jurors and request dismissals if necessary. Once the jury is finalized, the trial officially commences.

The court proceedings usually begin with opening statements by both the prosecution and the defense attorneys. The prosecution will present their case first, often calling witnesses and submitting evidence to support their argument. Following this, your defense Grafton DUI attorney conducts cross-examinations to challenge the presented evidence. The prosecution may offer a rebuttal, after which both sides deliver their closing arguments.

The Final Outcome

After closing arguments, the jury deliberates, reviewing the case based on the evidence and testimony presented during the trial. Once their discussion is complete, they deliver a verdict of guilt or acquittal. If a guilty verdict is reached, the jury or judge determines a punishment that aligns with the case’s circumstances.

Get Expert Legal Assistance from a Grafton DUI Lawyer

Facing DUI charges can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Mountaineer Criminal Law Group, we dedicate time and resources to crafting a comprehensive defense for your case. Our experienced Grafton criminal lawyers are here to guide you through the complexities of the legal process and stand beside you every step of the way.

Whether your charges are minor or severe, we work to ensure your rights are protected, and we strive to reduce or dismiss charges whenever possible. Call us today at (304) 381-3656 to schedule a free consultation in our Grafton office or another West Virginia location. With Mountaineer Criminal Law Group by your side, you gain a trusted partner ready to fight for your freedom and help resolve your case effectively.