Understanding the DUI Court Process in Orlando, Florida, from Arrest to Trial

Are you facing a DUI in Orlando, Florida? If so, you’re probably scared about the court process and the impact a conviction could have on your future. You’re not alone. DUI is very common. Many individuals make the mistake of thinking they can handle the road after they’ve had a few drinks. But knowing what you’re going to face can alleviate some of the stress. In this article, the Orlando, FL, DUI lawyers at FL DUI Group will discuss the DUI court process and what you should expect.

DUI arrest and booking 

The process usually begins with a traffic stop. You may have been pulled over because you were speeding, ran a red light, or committed some other form of traffic infraction. Law enforcement asks you a few simple questions, and you answer to the best of your ability, but the officer suspects you of being drunk behind the wheel. The officer may then ask you to perform field sobriety tests (FSTs) or a breathalyzer test.

If the officer has sufficient evidence to believe that you are impaired, you will likely be arrested and transported to a police station for booking. There, your personal information will be recorded, and you will be fingerprinted and photographed. You may also be asked to provide a blood sample, urine sample, or breath sample.

Arraignment and plea 

Your arraignment will be your initial court appearance after your arrest. The charges against you will be presented, and you will enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. A guilty or no contest plea will lead to sentencing, while a not guilty plea will move the case to the pretrial phase.

Pretrial conferences and motions 

During the pretrial phase, plea negotiations will occur between your DUI defense attorney and the prosecutor. Motions to suppress evidence will be filed during this phase.

The trial 

If your defense counsel and the prosecutor cannot reach a plea, the case will proceed to trial. The trial itself includes several stages. First includes jury selection. Then, opening statements occur. Next, both sides will present evidence and witnesses. Ultimately, the jury will decide your fate, leading to a verdict. If you are found guilty, the case moves to sentencing.

Sentencing (if convicted) 

If you’re found guilty, the case will move to the sentencing phase, where the judge determines the appropriate penalties based on factors like:

• The severity of the offense
• Prior convictions
• BAC levels

Penalties can include:

• Fines
• Community service
• License suspension
• Jail time
• Mandatory DUI school
• Installation of an ignition interlock device

Driver’s license administrative hearings 

Importantly, a DUI arrest also triggers a separate administrative process concerning your driver’s license. This is handled by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV). You have a limited opportunity to challenge the administrative suspension (usually 10 days). Failure to do so will result in an automatic suspension of your license, regardless of the outcome of your criminal case.

Talk to an Orlando, FL, DUI Attorney Today 

FL DUI Group represents the interests of those charged with DUI in Orlando. Call our Florida DUI lawyers today to schedule an appointment, and we can begin discussing your next steps right away.