Court Dates for Pennsylvania DUI Cases

If you are currently in Pennsylvania and have been charged with a DUI, you are likely facing a time of significant stress and uncertainty. Perhaps you accidentally rolled through a stop sign or drifted slightly in your lane while driving. If law enforcement observes any behavior that leads them to suspect you are operating a vehicle while intoxicated, they will initiate a traffic stop. If they find probable cause, you will be charged, setting the formal legal process in motion.

During the arrest process, officers will be thorough in their attempt to gather evidence proving you were impaired behind the wheel. You may encounter the following procedures:

• The officers will observe your speech patterns to see if you are slurring.
• They may examine your eyes for signs of impairment.
• Your vehicle may be searched to locate open containers or other evidence to be used against you.
• You will likely be asked to submit to field sobriety tests and/or blow into a breathalyzer.

If you complete these tests and the police determine your Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) is over the legal limit, you will be arrested, and a bond will be prepared for your court presentation. In these serious situations within Fayette county, professional legal assistance is vital. At Logue Law Group, you can find a Uniontown DUI attorney who will work tirelessly to help resolve the charges against you.

DUI Arraignment on the First Date

The initial hearing for your case is known as the “arraignment.” On this day, the court will formally read the charges filed against you. You will also be informed of your constitutional rights, after which your legal counsel will enter a plea of either guilty or not guilty. While it is possible to attend this first hearing without representation, it is generally not thoughtful to navigate the court system alone. Hire a Uniontown criminal lawyer for your better assistance.

Filing the Pre-trial Motion 

Following the arraignment, both the state prosecutor and the defense will submit pre-trial motions. These legal documents often include arguments regarding outstanding discovery motions and requests for pre-trial hearings where your counsel can attempt to suppress evidence or file a motion to dismiss the case entirely.

It is critical that a knowledgeable Uniontown criminal lawyer handles these complex legal proceedings. Based on their professional advice, you can determine the best strategy for addressing any plea bargains offered at the beginning of the legal process.

DUI Case in Trial

If a plea agreement is not reached, the case moves to trial. Both parties present in the courtroom will participate in the selection of jurors. Once the jury is seated, the trial officially commences. Both the prosecution and the defense will deliver opening statements to outline their arguments. The prosecution will then present evidence and call witnesses to the stand. Your legal representative from Uniontown DUI attorney will have the opportunity to cross-examine these witnesses, after which the defense will present its side of the case. Finally, both sides will deliver closing arguments. 

The Final Verdict

Once the court has heard the closing arguments, the jurors will retreat to discuss the case in private. After weighing all witness testimonies and evidence, the jury will return with a verdict. If you are found guilty, the judge will proceed to announce the sentencing and punishment.If you are facing these charges, contact844.PITT.DUI an experienced Uniontown DUI attorney at Logue Law Group immediately. Ensure you have the right representation for your defense. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.