Erie DUI Crime DWI Lawyer

Erie DUI attorney

So you've been arrested and charged with "driving under the influence" ("DUI") or "driving while intoxicated" ("DWI"). While you'll most certainly need a representative to defend you in court, it can make things a lot lessbewildering tounderstand what's going to materialize in court before you talk to a lawyer. Erie DUI attorney

Arraignment

The judge will ascertain whether or not to reduce your bail amount or release you on your "own recognizance" without needing additional bail. If you aren't already represented by an law firm, the judge willdecide whether you aresuitable for a government-appointed attorney, known as a "public defender."

Motions in an Erie a Pennsylvania Drink Driving Criminal Case

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• Physical evidence such as alcohol bottles confiscated from the car|} {
• Blood alcohol content testing results|} {
• Any incriminating statements or confessions you may have made to the arresting officer(s)|}

Trial for a Pennsylvania Drunk Driving Although many DWI cases are solved before going to trial, it'sa possibility that you'll find yourself at trial.

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• Jury selection (unless it is a trial by judge, which is fairly unusual in DWI trials)|} {
• Opening statements by your attorney and the prosecutor, outlining the evidence each intends to present|} {
• Testimony from witnesses|} {
• Cross-examination of the witnesses by both attorneys|} {
• Motions from your attorney after the prosecution has presented its case, sometimes asking the judge to dismiss the case for lack of evidence|} {
• Closing arguments from both lawyers summing up the evidence, and arguments about how the law applies|} {
• Jury instructions (by the judge) on the law the jury must apply|} {
• Jury deliberation|} {
• Jury verdict|}

Sentencing for a DWI If you're convicted for Pennsylvania Drunk Driving, the judge may sentence you to:

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• Pay fines|} {
• A short jail stay|} {
• A long jail term if you were involved in an accident where you injured or killed someone|} {
• Probation or a suspended sentence, with conditions on where you can go and actions you're prohibited from (such as drinking)|} {
• Community service, working with local non-profit community organizations|} {
• Drug or alcohol counseling or outpatient or intensive inpatient rehab|} {
• Install an "ignition interlock" device on your vehicle}|}

You'll really want a accomplished Erie criminal defense trial lawyer to stand for you prior to and throughout trial. It's most helpful to find a attorney you trust as soon as possible following being charged with a DWI. For help with an Erie Pennsylvania criminal defense, then find a DUI attorney Erie PA.