Will My Case Go To Trial?
One of the most difficult aspects of defending drunk driving cases is knowing when to advise a client to take their case to a trial. Some DUI attorneys are happy and willing to advise every client to go to trial, without properly exploring the chances of winning. This may be because of the attorney's "never plead guilty approach", or because the attorney has a personal agenda to try as many cases as possible for the "experience", or because the attorney wishes to obtain the increased fees for trial whenever possible. This is, of course, what some defendants want.
When you work with Gold & Witham, you will find that we are never willing to offer a blanket solution for any case. Instead, we work to determine the best course of action so that you can have the best chance of success. Regardless, we always prepare every single case as if it is going to trial and will be ready to do so if it is required.
If you are arrested for driving under the influence, you will be booked and await arraignment where you will hear a formal reading of your charges. At this point, you will plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest. If you plead not guilty, then your case will be set for trial. Your DUI case will go to trial unless your attorney successfully files a motion to dismiss and the judge dismissed your case before it goes to trial.
Some people who are arrested for DUI, after consulting with an attorney, find that their best course of action is accepting a plea deal. In exchange for a guilty plea, the court typically offers the defendant reduced charges and/or penalties. If you plead guilty, your case will not go to trial. Talk to an attorney about your best option after a DUI arrest.
