If you find yourself in West Virginia and facing a DUI charge, it can be an incredibly distressing situation. Perhaps you unintentionally overlooked a stop sign while driving? As soon as law enforcement officers have any indication that you might have been impaired behind the wheel, they will pull you over and initiate the charging process. From there, the legal proceedings will commence.
During the arrest, the police will diligently work to establish your level of intoxication at the time of driving. Here are some key aspects you might encounter:
If, after going through these evaluations, the police find you guilty of driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level above the legal limit, you will be arrested, and the necessary bond preparations will be made for your court appearance. In such critical circumstances, it is imperative to seek immediate assistance from a skilled Weirton DUI lawyer. At Mountaineer Law Group, our team of experienced West Virginia DUI lawyers will provide you with the necessary support to combat the charges you are facing.
The initial court date, known as the “arraignment,” serves as an opportunity for you to be informed of the charges brought against you. Furthermore, you will be briefed on your rights, after which your lawyer will enter a plea of either guilty or not guilty on your behalf. It is possible to attend this first hearing without the presence of a lawyer, if desired.
When it comes to legal proceedings, it is crucial to have an experienced Weirton DUI lawyer who can handle various aspects of your case. Both the state lawyer and the defense lawyer will submit a pre-trial motion, including arguments on outstanding discovery motions and pre-trial hearings, allowing you to present evidence and file a motion to dismiss.
During the DUI trial, both parties will have the opportunity to select jurors if the case proceeds to trial. Opening statements will be presented, attempting to sway the outcome in each party’s favor. The prosecution will call witnesses and present evidence, followed by cross-examination from your appointed West Virginia DUI lawyer. The defense will then present its case, leading to counter-arguments from both sides, and ultimately concluding with closing statements.
After carefully listening to the closing arguments, the jury will convene to discuss the case privately. They will carefully consider all the evidence and witness testimonies before delivering the final verdict. If found guilty, the judge will then announce the appropriate punishment.
For reliable representation, it is advisable to contact an experienced lawyer at Mountaineer Law Group. Our team is well-equipped to assist you with various legal matters, including those requiring a Weirton Criminal lawyer. Schedule your free consultation today.