Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyer

DUI Process in Minnesota

After a person has been arrested for DUI in Minnesota, it is likely that they will be charged by a criminal court. The legal proceedings that will determine their innocence or guilt will consist of the following:

• Release from custody - Most people arrested for DUI are released from custody after promising to appear in court at a later time. Some individuals may be required to post bond before they can be released. Those who can't post bond and are ineligible for release may be held in custody until their arraignment.
• Arraignment - This is the first court appearance a person will attend following their DUI arrest. At this hearing, the person will be read their charges and asked to enter a plea. If the person pleads guilty, they will be sentenced by the judge. If they plead innocence, their case will move forward, and their next court appearance will be at the pre-trial conference.
• Pre-trial conference - This court hearing gives a person an opportunity to provide the judge with updates about their case, including scheduling and discovery issues. The prosecutor may offer a plea agreement at this hearing. If the person accepts it, the judge enters the plea on their record. If the offer is declined, the case proceeds to trial.
• Pre-trial motions - This series of hearings allows the defense to file motions before the trial, such as those requesting the suppression of evidence. The defense attorney may also cross-examine the law enforcement officers and witnesses involved in the case, or call an expert witness to testify on behalf of the defendant.
• Trial - The majority of DUI cases are resolved prior to trial. If a person's case goes all the way to trial, it will be heard by a judge and a panel of six jurors. Following jury selection, the trial will include opening arguments, the presentation of cases (including evidence and testimony), cross-examination, and closing arguments by both sides. Once this is complete, the jury will deliberate and make their decision. If a verdict of not guilty is reached, the person will have their charges dismissed. If the person is found guilty, their case will proceed for sentencing.

If you need more information about the DUI process, or are seeking legal representation for your DUI case, contact a Minnesota criminal defense lawyer today.

DUI Attorney in Minnesota

At Heimerl & Lammers, we understand how frightening it can be to be arrested and charged with a crime. Our goal is to help you through this difficult time by providing you with high quality defense representation in your DUI case. With many years of experience in practicing criminal defense, we will be able to aggressively defend you against your charges with the intent of securing an outcome that is favorable to you.

Contact a Minnesota DUI attorney if you need help after being charged with DUI.