When a prosecutor charges you for driving while intoxicated (DWI), he or she typically do so as a result of documents they’ve been given by the arresting law enforcement officer. The report summarizes the reasons for the arrest, as well as what happened when you were placed in custody. Once the documents are reviewed, the prosecutor will decide whether or not the charge is justified.
The stages of DWI court procedures
- Arraignment – This is your first court proceeding. As a criminal defendant, you will be officially informed of the charges against you. You will have the opportunity to enter a plea of “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest”.
- Pre-trial – This stage allows the defendants, lawyers and any victims to determine what issues are going to be judged and what evidence will be shown. It can give each party a chance to solve the matter before trial as well.
- Trial – If it is determined that the case will go to trial, a Bench Trial or a Trial by Jury will be held. During a Bench Trial, the judge will make a decision on the outcome. During a Jury Trial, a jury will make that decision. Your DWI lawyer will fight to get the best outcome for you.
Fighting for the best outcome
The fourth stage of the process is pre-sentencing. The judge will review the pre-sentence documents and other evidence before sentencing begins. Sentencing is the final step. The judge merely announces your sentence. Most sentences include jail time, fines, or probation. Your lawyer will attempt to reduce the penalties so that you can move on with your life.
Reach out to a Minneapolis DWI lawyer
As a Minneapolis DWI lawyer, Mark Herman helps clients in situations like yours secure positive results in their DWI criminal cases. To learn how he can help you, call 612-382-4545 and set up a FREE consultation.
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- Implied Consent Laws
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