What to Expect at Your DUI Trial

Going through a DUI trial can be a challenging experience. This comprehensive guide explores what one can expect at their DUI trial, covering the process from beginning to end, legal strategies, potential outcomes, and the impact on one's life, so one can feel confident knowing there won't be any surprises.

Understanding DUI Trials

A DUI trial is a legal proceeding where the prosecution attempts to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant operated a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. The trial seeks to establish whether the defendant violated the state's laws related to impaired driving and, if convicted, the potential penalties they may face.

Initial Arrest and Charges

The process typically begins with the initial arrest by law enforcement officers who suspect the driver is impaired. Following the arrest, the driver may be charged with Driving Under the Influence (DUI), which initiates the legal proceedings. The specific charges and severity depend on factors such as blood alcohol concentration (BAC), any prior DUI convictions, and whether any injuries or property damage occurred. When one is arrested for DUI, they have the right to an attorney. Contact a St. Louis, Missouri, criminal defense attorney at Bretz Legal, LLC after an initial arrest.

Arraignment

The first formal court appearance is the arraignment, where the defendant is informed of the charges against them and enters a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). If the defendant pleads not guilty, the case proceeds to trial. It's recommended to seek the legal help of a DUI attorney at this stage if one has not done so already.

Pre-Trial Motions and Hearings

Before the trial begins, both the prosecution and defense may file pre-trial motions. These motions address various legal issues, such as suppression of evidence, challenges to the validity of the arrest, or requests to exclude certain testimony. The judge will hear arguments from both sides and make rulings that can impact the trial's proceedings.

Jury Selection (If Applicable)

If the defendant opts for a jury trial, a jury selection process occurs. Both the prosecution and defense attorneys question potential jurors to guarantee a fair and impartial jury is selected. The chosen jury will hear the evidence presented during the trial and ultimately decide the defendant's guilt or innocence.

Opening Statements

The trial begins with opening statements from both the prosecution and defense. These statements outline each side's theory of the case and provide an overview of the evidence they intend to present. Opening statements aren't evidence but rather a roadmap for the jury to understand the upcoming testimony and exhibits.

Presentation of Evidence

During the trial, both sides present their evidence to support their arguments. This typically includes witness testimony, expert opinions (such as toxicologists or accident reconstruction specialists), police reports, BAC test results, dashcam footage, and any other relevant documentation. The prosecution bears the burden of proving the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. It's up to the defense (one's DUI attorney) to indicate areas of doubt for the jury.

Cross-Examination

After witnesses testify for the prosecution or defense, the opposing side has the opportunity to cross-examine them. Cross-examination aims to challenge the credibility of witnesses, highlight inconsistencies in their testimony, or elicit information favorable to the cross-examiner's case.

Closing Arguments

Once all evidence and testimony have been presented, both sides deliver closing arguments. In these arguments, both the prosecution and DUI attorney will summarize the key points of their case, highlight the strengths of their evidence, and attempt to persuade the jury to reach a verdict in their favor. Unlike opening statements, closing arguments may include references to the evidence presented during the trial.

Jury Instructions

Before the jury begins deliberations, the judge provides them with instructions on the law relevant to the case. These instructions explain the legal standards for determining guilt or innocence and outline the specific charges the defendant faces. Jurors are instructed to base their decision solely on the evidence presented in court and the law as explained by the judge.

Deliberations and Verdict

After receiving jury instructions, jurors deliberate in private to reach a unanimous verdict. Deliberations can vary in length depending on the case and the evidence presented. Once the jury reaches a decision, they notify the court, and the verdict is announced in open court.

Potential Legal Strategies and Defenses

Challenging the Stop or Arrest

One common defense strategy of a DUI attorney is to challenge the legality of the traffic stop or arrest. If law enforcement officers didn't have probable cause or reasonable suspicion to stop the vehicle or make an arrest, evidence obtained as a result of the illegal stop or arrest may be suppressed and deemed inadmissible in court.

Questioning Field Sobriety Tests

Field sobriety tests (FSTs), such as the walk-and-turn or one-leg stand tests, are used by officers to assess a driver's coordination and cognitive abilities. A DUI attorney may challenge the accuracy and reliability of these tests, citing factors such as poor testing conditions, physical impairments unrelated to intoxication, or inadequate administration of the tests.

Disputing BAC Test Results

Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) tests, such as the breathalyzer or blood tests, are critical pieces of evidence in DUI cases. Defense strategies may involve questioning the calibration and maintenance of testing equipment, the qualifications of the technician administering the test, and potential physiological factors that could affect test results.

Rising BAC Defense

The "rising BAC" defense argues that the defendant's BAC was below the legal limit at the time of driving but rose to an illegal level by the time the chemical test was administered. This defense relies on expert testimony and evidence to establish the defendant's BAC trajectory and challenge the prosecution's timeline of events.

Necessity Defense

In rare cases, the necessity defense may apply if the defendant drove under the influence out of necessity to prevent a greater harm. For example, if driving impaired was the only way to avoid imminent danger or injury, the defendant may argue that their actions were justified under the circumstances.

Potential Outcomes of a DUI Trial

Acquittal

If the jury finds the defendant not guilty or if the prosecution decides to dismiss the charges, the defendant is acquitted, and no criminal conviction is entered. The defendant is free from further legal consequences related to the specific charges.

Conviction

If the jury finds the defendant guilty beyond a reasonable doubt, the defendant is convicted of the DUI charges. The court proceeds to sentencing, where the judge imposes penalties according to state law, which may include fines, probation, mandatory alcohol education programs, community service, license suspension or revocation, and in some cases, jail time.

Appeal

If the defendant is convicted, they have the right to appeal the verdict or sentence under certain circumstances. Grounds for appeal may include errors in legal procedures, misconduct by the prosecution, or new evidence that could affect the outcome of the case.

Impact on One's Life

Criminal Record

A DUI conviction results in a criminal record, which can have long-term consequences for employment opportunities, professional licenses, housing options, and personal relationships. Some employers and organizations conduct background checks that include criminal history inquiries, potentially affecting job prospects.

License Suspension of Revocation

Upon conviction, the defendant may face driver's license suspension or revocation. The duration of the suspension and eligibility for restricted driving privileges vary by state and may depend on factors such as prior offenses, BAC level, and completion of required programs.

Financial Penalties

DUI convictions often incur significant financial penalties, including fines, court costs, legal fees, increased insurance premiums, and costs associated with alternative transportation arrangements during license suspension.

Mandatory Programs

Depending on state law and the circumstances of the case, DUI offenders may be required to complete mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs. These programs aim to address underlying issues related to alcohol or substance use and reduce the risk of future offenses.

Ignition Interlock Device

In some states, DUI offenders are required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) on their vehicle. The IID requires the driver to pass a breathalyzer test before starting the vehicle, serving as a deterrent against impaired driving. According to the Missouri Department of Revenue, an IID is required under Missouri law if one has been found guilty of two or more DUI offenses.

Speak to a DUI Attorney

A DUI trial involves understanding the legal process, preparing a robust defense strategy, and being aware of potential consequences. From the initial arrest and charges to the final verdict and its impact on one's life, each stage of a DUI trial requires careful consideration and legal guidance. 

By understanding what to expect at a DUI trial, one can make informed decisions, protect their rights, and seek the best possible outcome in their case. Whether contesting the legality of evidence, challenging BAC test results, or presenting mitigating factors, defendants have options to defend against DUI charges and mitigate the impact on their future.

Contact an experienced DUI attorney today at Bretz Legal, LLC for more information or to schedule a consultation. Bretz Legal, LLC serves St. Louis, Missouri, and the surrounding areas of St. Charles, Jefferson, Franklin, and St. Louis counties.