Court Appearances In A DWI Case: What You Need To Know

In this article, you can discover:

• The court attendance requirements and procedures for a DWI case, including arraignments and subsequent appearances.
• What to expect during the arraignment and the importance of hiring a DWI attorney.
• The benefits of having an experienced attorney and the optimal time to hire one for your DWI case.

When Am I Required To Attend Court For A DWI Case?

You are required to attend court whenever you receive a notification. The initial court appearance, called the arraignment, is typically conducted virtually using services such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Subsequent case management conferences may also be virtual, but in-person appearances become more likely as the case progresses, especially during trial.

What Happens During The Arraignment For A DWI Case?

At the arraignment, the judge informs you of the charges and penalties, and you should enter a not-guilty plea. The judge will then inquire about your plans to hire a lawyer and if you can afford one. If you cannot afford a lawyer and meet specific criteria, you may apply for a public defender, which may require a fee between $50 and $200.

At What Point Should I Hire A DWI Attorney?

It is advisable to hire a DWI attorney as soon as possible. While you can manage the initial arraignment on your own, it is best to have legal representation by the second court appearance. Hiring a knowledgeable and experienced attorney increases your chances of building a strong defense.

For more information on Court Appearances In A New Jersey DWI Case, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (732) 218-9090 today.