Getting arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) can be a stressful experience. When charged with this offense, there’s more to it than just being given a breath test. You’ll have to navigate the legal process, including a preliminary hearing. This is where your case will get its first review, and you’ll find out if there’s enough evidence against you for trial. In this blog post, we will talk about what happens during a DUI preliminary hearing and how you can prepare for it.
- The Purpose of a Preliminary Hearing
The first step in understanding the DUI preliminary hearing process is to know its purpose. The preliminary hearing takes place soon after your arrest, usually within a couple of weeks. It is before your trial, and its purpose is for the court to determine if there’s enough evidence to continue with a trial. The judge will also decide whether to lower or hold your bail amount.
- What Goes On During the Preliminary Hearing?
During a preliminary hearing, the prosecution will present evidence, including witness testimony and police reports, against you. Your attorney is also allowed to cross-examine the witnesses and present evidence on your behalf.
- How to Prepare for a Preliminary Hearing
Preparation can make all the difference in effectively navigating a DUI preliminary hearing. This means finding yourself a skilled DUI defense lawyer who can provide you with expert legal advice on how to proceed with the hearing. Together with your lawyer, you will need to gather all relevant evidence needed for your defense. You should be well-prepared for possible questioning to ensure that you’re not contradicting yourself.
- What Happens After the Preliminary Hearing?
After the preliminary hearing, the judge will make his decision. If the judge decides there’s sufficient evidence to continue with the trial, then you must prepare to attend your trial. If the judge can’t find enough evidence to proceed with the trial, then the case will be dismissed.
- How to Deal with a DUI Charge
Getting charged with DUI is scary, but it’s essential to keep your cool throughout the legal process. It’s critical to note that you’re legally entitled to defend yourself in court. The first step in dealing with such a charge is finding a competent DUI defense lawyer and keeping good communication with them.
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In conclusion, DUI preliminary hearings are essential because they provide clarity on the strength of the case against you. It’s also an excellent opportunity to prepare for potential arguments you might face during your trial. After your preliminary hearing, it’s essential to stay consistent with legal advice from your DUI defense lawyer to prepare you for your trial. Remember, a skilled DUI defense lawyer is your best weapon in defending against DUI charges.
You need more than just one good DUI lawyer. You need the best. You need a team of experienced DUI lawyers fighting for you. Contact Lee Ciccarelli, and his team of West Chester, Pennsylvania DUI lawyers.
Watch out. There’s a lot of former prosecutors boasting about their experience: experience putting people just like you behind bars. Instead, look to Lee Ciccarelli and his team with nearly 100 years of experience fighting for clients facing the penalties of a DUI.
Contact Chester County DUI Defense Attorney
It may be possible to fight your Pennsylvania DUI charge and win, but you’ll never know if you plead guilty without first exploring your options. Ciccarelli Law Offices can review your case to determine whether the local Pennsylvania district attorney’s case has weaknesses that are open to challenge. We will prepare each case as though it is going to trial to insure preparation and thorough understanding and will take the case to trial if you are not satisfied with the resolution that is offered. We strive to be zealous advocates and always try to obtain the best results for our clients.
We are based in West Chester PA (Chester County) in Suburban Philadelphia and represent individuals charged with Drunk Driving, DUI, Driving After Imbibing cases Throughout Pennsylvania including but not limited to Philadelphia, Lancaster, Allentown, Oxford Exton Phoenixville Parkesburg Malvern Coatesville Lionville Chesterbrook Devon Newtown Square Glen Mills Pottstown Downingtown Kennett Square King of Prussia Paoli and beyond.
You deserve a West Chester Pennsylvania DUI lawyer that is available when you need him, treats you with respect, and protects your rights vigorously. For more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced Pennsylvania DUI Attorney at Ciccarelli Law Offices, by contacting us at (610) 692-8700 or toll free at (877) 529-2422.