What happens at a pre-trial for driving under the influence (DUI) in Los Angeles? Your pre-trial hearing may focus on allowing the judge to determine if your case is ready to proceed to trial. It also allows your lawyer to make some pre-trial motions. It could even end with the resolution of your case through a plea bargain.
As you can see, a lot might happen at your DUI pre-trial hearing. Dig into the pre-trial process with this article.
Basic Information About Pre-Trial Procedures
A pre-trial hearing in California occurs before your criminal trial. However, this hearing doesn’t typically occur immediately after your arrest, either. The hearing occurs after your lawyer has had a chance to investigate your charges and work on your defense. The prosecution also uses this time to build a case against you.
During the hearing, your lawyer and the prosecution meet with the judge who is handling your case. The judge will ensure that both sides of your case are ready to proceed with the trial. These hearings are generally not attended by a large number of people. Your case will not be heard by a jury at a pre-trial hearing.
Pre-Trial Motions and Your Case in Los Angeles
A Los Angeles DUI lawyer may also file a number of pre-trial motions for you before your criminal trial. These motions may be filed at your pre-trial hearing. Some common motions in the state of California include a:
Motion to Suppress
The motion to suppress allows your lawyer to work to block evidence against you. Your lawyer may file this motion if police officers violated your rights while gathering evidence. Evidence gathered improperly may not be used against you.
Pitchess Motion
Your lawyer may file a Pitchess motion to learn more about the history of the officer who arrested you. This could be useful if the officer violated your rights or used excessive force during your arrest. Make sure you speak to a lawyer if these events occurred.
Motion to Dismiss
In some cases, DUI charges in California are dismissed. A lawyer could file a motion to get your charges dismissed by the court. A judge may only dismiss your charges if there is not a lot of evidence against you. Find out more about pre-trial motions by calling (310) 896-2724.
Plea Bargains and Pre-Trial Hearings in Los Angeles
The prosecution may offer you a plea bargain at your pre-trial hearing in Los Angeles. Your lawyer may assess the plea bargain for you. These deals allow you to lower the penalties you face for a criminal charge in many cases.
However, you also get a conviction on your record if you accept a plea bargain. This means that these deals are not always in your best interests. You should always have a lawyer go over any deal before you accept it, as it may not be the right choice for you.
You should know that “wet reckless” charges are a common part of DUI plea bargains in Los Angeles. These charges may reduce your fines and jail time. However, they are also priorable. This means they count against you if you are arrested for a subsequent DUI.
Learn More About Your Criminal Trial in California
Your pre-trial hearing could allow your case to move forward into your criminal trial. Not all DUI cases end with a plea bargain in Los Angeles, after all. A DUI lawyer can help you get ready to stand up in front of a judge and jury.
Your lawyer can work on your defense starting right now. Your lawyer could work to show that a police officer had no reason to stop you. Your lawyer might also dispute the accuracy of any blood alcohol content (BAC) tests you took.
These tests may return inaccurate results if they are not completed properly. Police officers have to perform these tests within a certain amount of time after they stop you. The tests must also be stored properly before use to return accurate results. Discuss possible defenses for your case with a law firm right now.
Talk to a Lawyer About What Happens at a DUI Pre-Trial
So, what should you expect at a DUI pre-trial hearing? Your lawyer may file a number of motions on your behalf. You could also resolve your case by accepting a plea bargain. A Los Angeles DUI lawyer can help you learn more about this part of your legal case. Start getting more information right now with a FREE consultation.
You can reach out to us by calling (310) 896-2724. You may also fill out our online contact form. Allow us to address all of your legal needs today.
