After you or a loved one are arrested for a DUI, you may not know what will come next. Most people want to put the incident behind them as quickly as possible and move on with their lives. However, a DUI arrest is not what leads to fines, DUI school and possible jail time. Only a conviction for a DUI will lead to those and additional penalties. Whether or not you have a DUI conviction will be determined by the courts, and not by the police. If you want to make sure you don't end up with a conviction or a criminal record, you have to make sure that you win your case in court.
Appearing in Atlanta Municipal Court following a DUI arrest can be a daunting experience. Most people are unfamiliar with criminal court proceedings, and find the whole process overwhelming. It is important to be prepared for your Atlanta Municipal Court hearing, so that you have the best chance of walking away without a conviction on your record. It isn't fair that you have to face a criminal court hearing alone. Your best option may be to get help and guidance from someone experienced in helping their clients navigate the court process, to ensure you are treated fairly by the courts.
Atlanta Municipal Court Proceedings
There is a lot at stake facing a DUI conviction. It will leave a permanent mark on your criminal record, and a conviction can result in jail time, fines, substance abuse evaluation, DUI school, community service, and loss of your license. It is important that you are prepared, and take the matter very seriously. There are a number of little things that can make the whole process a little easier, and can go a long way to presenting a positive impression to the judge handling your case.
On the day of your hearing, you don't want to be stressed and rushing around, so you should plan to arrive plenty early in case there are any delays. The earlier you arrive, the easier it will be to find parking, find the right courthouse, and get through security with enough time to compose yourself before your case is heard.
You may be waiting a long time for your case to be heard, so be prepared to wait. I suggest wearing comfortable, but professional attire. Don't wear shirts with offensive words or pictures, or torn or cut-off clothing. Don't wear clothes that are provocative, or too tight or too short. Presenting a professional and respectful appearance will show the court that you are serious about your case, and understand the gravity of a criminal charge. Keep your phone silenced, and don't engage in excessive or loud talking while waiting for your case.
If you have any documents or evidence to support your position, make sure you have copies and bring them to the court. Also, if you have a defense to present to the judge, be prepared and practice speaking ahead of time, so you will not be thrown off on you hearing date due to the stress of the event. Having a clear and concise position will give you the best chance of having your arguments heard by the judge.
Atlanta Criminal Court DUI Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been arrested for driving under the influence in Atlanta, you should talk with an experienced, local Atlanta DUI lawyer. It is important to understand the consequences and penalties associated with a DUI conviction. You may find that a lawyer can identify a number of possible defenses to get your case dismissed, with no criminal conviction. As an experienced Atlanta DUI lawyer, I will make sure you are treated fairly by the courts. Call me today, so I can fight the criminal charges against you, to make sure you have a clean record.