What to Expect at Your First Court Appearance for DUI in Chatham County?

Facing your first court appearance after a DUI arrest can be daunting, but understanding what to expect at your first court appearance for DUI in Chatham County can help you feel more prepared and confident as you navigate your way through the process.

About Us

With deep roots in the Georgia legal community, Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C. offers a powerful advantage: our attorneys have stood in the prosecutor’s shoes. This insider perspective guides our strategy and strengthens our ability to challenge the opposition.

The Arraignment Process

The first court appearance in most DUI cases is called an arraignment. This isn’t the trial, but the formal step where the court introduces the charges against you. During the arraignment, the judge reads your charges and asks you to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest.

If you plead not guilty, the court can schedule a future date for additional hearings, which could include pre-trial motions or, eventually, a trial. This is where hiring an experienced DUI attorney can make a real difference. An attorney can carefully review the evidence, explain your legal options, and make sure your rights are fully protected throughout the process.

The judge could discuss the conditions of a bond, limitations on your driving, or requirements such as alcohol or drug testing. Having a solid understanding of Chatham County DUI laws at this stage is essential, as even seemingly minor mistakes, such as driving while your license is suspended, can lead to more serious penalties.

What Happens After Arraignment

After the arraignment, your DUI attorney begins the discovery process. This involves gathering all the evidence the prosecution has against you, including police reports, body camera footage, and the results of any breath or blood tests.

Every piece of evidence is carefully reviewed and, if necessary, challenged under Chatham County DUI laws, especially if procedural mistakes occurred during the arrest or testing process.

In addition to discovery, you could have pre-trial conferences or motion hearings. These are key opportunities for your attorney to negotiate for reduced charges or a dismissal if the prosecution’s evidence is weak. Many DUI cases never make it to trial because they’re resolved through negotiations or plea agreements at this stage.

If your case moves forward to trial, your attorney can develop a detailed defense strategy tailored to your situation.

What to Expect in Court

When you go to court, it’s important to dress appropriately and arrive early. It’s important to remember that this is a formal legal process, so being respectful, attentive, and composed can work in your favor.

Your DUI attorney handles most of the speaking. Your role is largely to listen carefully, follow instructions, and provide any information your attorney requests.

Why You Should Hire a DUI Lawyer

Despite the fact that DUIs account for 30% of all traffic fatalities, DUIs made up 11.2% of all arrests in Georgia in 2024, with over 12,000 offenders.

Given how complicated DUI cases can be, it’s strongly recommended that you hire a DUI lawyer as soon as possible. Local knowledge is invaluable, as an experienced DUI attorney who regularly handles cases in Chatham County is familiar with local judges, prosecutors, and courtroom procedures. This familiarity can help you avoid common pitfalls and improve your chances of a favorable resolution.

Protect Your Rights with an Experienced DUI Attorney

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., our local Chatham County team is dedicated to standing up for your rights, advocating aggressively on your behalf, and guiding you through the complexities of Chatham County DUI laws. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.