College Station DWI Arraignment Process

Being charged with a DWI is a serious matter. The arraignment is the first formal step in the legal process, and understanding what happens there can make a massive difference in the progress of the rest of your case.

The arraignment is a defendant’s first formal court appearance after being charged with a crime. The judge formally presents the charges against you and asks for you to enter a plea.

Understanding the College Station DWI arraignment process, particularly the meaning of each possible plea you can make, is vital. In most scenarios, a not-guilty plea is a defendant’s best option since it provides the most significant opportunities to build a defense and fight the charges. For more information, call our seasoned DWI attorneys today.

What to Expect at a DWI Arraignment

The arraignment process can be confusing and intimidating. Knowing what to expect can reduce some of that uncertainty. During the courtroom proceedings, the judge explains your rights. They will provide a formal reading of the charges, and then the defendant will enter into a plea.

The defendant says guilty, not guilty, or no contest in this portion. The judge may decide whether they will release you and, if so, whether there will be bail or other conditions. Future court dates may be set during this time as well.

Potential Outcomes After the Arraignment

After your arraignment, the legal process continues. However, your actions can dictate how it unfolds. The case may proceed to sentencing if you plead guilty or no contest. If you plead not guilty, the case moves to the pre-trial stage, including pre-trial hearings.

Defendants need to consider two primary factors during the pre-trial process. The first is whether they will be released pending trial. Pre-trial release is almost always preferable to being detained until trial, but not everyone can afford bail conditions. Being free to work, continue their everyday lives, and help prepare their defense are all important.

The second one is whether there are any options available that would reduce a defendant’s jail time. A lawyer could negotiate for reduced charges or explore alternative sentencing options in the lead-up to a hearing. Having an attorney at your side is one of the best ways to protect your rights during a DWI arraignment in College Station.

How a Lawyer Can Help You Win Your Case

While cases are not won or lost at the arraignment, how you approach it sets the tone for the rest of the process. Interactions with the judge should be respectful, and you should listen to your lawyer’s advice about tone and intention. A not-guilty plea gives your team the time to build effective defense strategies, including the following:

• Challenging the legality of the stop;
• Questioning field sobriety test results;
• Challenging breathalyzer test results;
• Negotiating with prosecutors; and
• Exploring sentencing alternatives.

While the criminal justice system has established rules and guidelines, a criminal defense attorney works hard to make you stand out as an individual.

In addition to helping plan a good defense strategy, The Greening Law Group focuses on helping reduce the impact of a DWI charge on your life through the following:

• Expungement guidance—helping you clear your record when eligible;
• Driver’s license reinstatement assistance;
• Locating and accessing rehabilitation programs; and
• Finding resources for long-term success.

Since the impact of DWIs can go well beyond the criminal justice system, a College Station lawyer could make a tremendous difference for many defendants during the arraignment process and beyond.

Talk to a Lawyer About the College Station DWI Arraignment Process

When you have been arrested for a DWI, you need to know about the College Station DWI arraignment process. While the arraignment does not define the criminal process, it is the first meaningful step in fighting the charges, protecting your rights, and securing your future.

Schedule a free case evaluation with a dedicated attorney from The Greening Law Group today to learn more.