WHEN DO I GO TO COURT?

If you are placed under arrest you will be afforded the opportunity to make bond. In a D.U.I. case the bond is usually low enough that most people will only have to spend one night in jail. If, however, you are unable to make bail you will remain in jail until your first scheduled court appearance. The first court appearance is called an arraignment. The arraignment has its roots in our Constitution's abhorrence for the practice of English authorities who would throw someone in jail and not inform them of the charge against them. Within a short period of time you will be brought before the Municipal Court judge and you will be asked to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty or no contest. It is vital that you not enter a plea of guilty or no contest unless you have spoken to an attorney. Do not give up your rights on the hope that you will be released from jail or because you feel embarrassed and humiliated.

Following the arraignment you may be released from jail, or if the crime merits it, you may be forced to remain in jail until you can post bond. If your bond is unreasonably high your criminal attorney can take steps to secure your release pending trial. For most "first-time" D.U.I. offenders the bail will be low and/or the judge will release you from jail following the initial appearance. This is the point at which you will have the most fear and humiliation. You must face your family and/or friends with the news that you have been arrested for D.U.I.. At this vulnerable time you should also pick an attorney to represent you.