The Criminal Court Process
Defending Your DUI Criminal Charges in Court
When people are arrested for DUI in California, they face two separate legal processes: the DMV hearing and the criminal court process. The DMV hearing is an administrative review hearing with a representative from the DMV to determine whether or not your driver’s license will be suspended. In addition to the DMV hearing, all DUI offenders are also required to appear in court for their criminal case.
The criminal court process determines whether a driver is guilty or not guilty of the crime of driving under the influence. If you have been charged with a DUI in Contra Costa, it’s exceptionally important to retain the services of a highly skilled DUI attorney who can represent you at both the DMV hearing and in criminal court. Working with an experienced Contra Costa DUI lawyer puts you at a great advantage for receiving a successful outcome in court.
It is important for anyone charged with a DUI to have a clear understanding of what he/she can expect to face in criminal court. The first stage of the criminal process is the arraignment. The arraignment is the first time you will appear in court for your criminal case, and where you will make your plea of either “guilty,” “not guilty,” or “no contest.” The type of plea you make will determine what happens next in the criminal process. If you plea “guilty” or “no contest,” then your criminal case comes to an end, and the judge will sentence you to whatever penalties he or she sees fit. If you plea “not guilty” at the arraignment, then the judge will set a trial court date.
Your case will move to court if a plea agreement hasn’t been made between your attorney and the prosecution by your scheduled trial date. At trial, your case will be heard before a judge and jury who will determine whether you are “guilty” or “not guilty” of driving under the influence.
During the trial, your attorney will present evidence, testimony, and information before the court, and have the opportunity to challenge or make arguments against the evidence, testimony, and information presented by the prosecution. At the conclusion of your criminal case, the judge and/or jury will rule as to whether you are “guilty” or “not guilty” of the DUI charges brought against you. If you are found “not guilty,” you will be cleared of all charges. If you are found “guilty,” the judge will then impose a sentence.
Contact Contra Costa DUI Lawyer Robert Tayac
If you have been charged with a DUI, it’s important to these charges seriously. If convicted, you could face a number of adverse legal penalties, such as time in jail, fines, probation, community service, driver’s license suspension, and mandatory participation in an alcohol treatment program.
For these reasons, it’s in your best interest to contact an experienced Contra Costa DUI attorney as soon as possible. When you retain the services of Attorney Robert Tayac, he will evaluate your case, discuss your best options, and begin to prepare your criminal case by collecting compelling evidence and testimony. Once Mr. Tayac steps into the courtroom, he provides zealous representation and aggressive defense.
Mr. Tayac is not afraid to challenge the arguments and evidence presented by the prosecution, and always seeks a reduction or dismissal of the charges. Above all, Mr. Tayac works relentlessly to ensure your rights and best interest are protected at all times, and that you walk away from your criminal case with a verdict of “not guilty.”
To schedule an appointment with Contra Costa DUI attorney Robert Tayac, please call 925-288-9800.