Arraignment Questions

[theyerb]

What is the name of your state? California

When I go to my first day in court for "driving under the influence", which I'm told is called the "arraignment," should I have a lawyer present? or should I here the charges against me and ask the judge for a brief period to find legal counsel? Will the DA offer me a plea bargain during this first trial? What is the arraignment like? Any advice is appreciated.

[CdwJava]

Originally Posted by theyerb

What is the name of your state? California

When I go to my first day in court for "driving under the influence", which I'm told is called the "arraignment," should I have a lawyer present? or should I here the charges against me and ask the judge for a brief period to find legal counsel? Will the DA offer me a plea bargain during this first trial? What is the arraignment like? Any advice is appreciated.

You will be asked to make a plea (guilty or no guilty) and you will have the opportunity to request counsel if you cannot afford one. If you CAN afford an attorney, it would be wise to do so before arraignment.

The DA will not likely make you a plea offer at arraignment - especially if you do not have an attorney present.

The arraignment is short and quick ... they read the charges, ask you your plea, and then they inquire about attorneys and the next hearing date - simple.

- Carl