New Jersey DWI Court Process
What to Expect During the Court Process for DUI
Whether this is your first DWI arrest or you have multiple drunk driving convictions on your record, the DWI court process can be a confusing and frightening experience. An experienced lawyer can guide you through each stage of your case and make sure that your rights are fully protected.
I am John W. Tumelty, a New Jersey DWI court process attorney with 30 years of criminal and traffic law experience, first as a prosecutor and now as a defense lawyer. I have been named a New Jersey Supreme Court-certified criminal trial attorney. I know how the court process works, and I know what it takes to successfully defend a DWI case and minimize DWI/DUI penalties.
If you have been charged with drinking and driving, contact my law firm to learn how I can help you. I have offices in Atlantic County and Cape May County.
Understanding the Court Process
A DWI case begins when a person is arrested and charged with a DWI offense and/or a refusal to take a breath test offense. The initial court appearance is listed on the actual tickets. The first court date is called an “arraignment.” At the arraignment, the judge will explain the charges and potential penalties. The judge will also explain that you have a right to an attorney and the right to remain silent. The judge will encourage you to get an attorney. Last, the judge will ask you to enter a plea of guilty or not guilty. Most people plead not guilty on the arraignment date.
The municipal court will generate a new court notice quickly. You will receive a notice of the final court date within a couple of weeks. A final court date will take place within 60 days of the arrest. As your DWI defense attorney, I will obtain a copy of the police report package as soon as possible. I will also provide you with a copy of the police report and discuss the contents thereof in detail with you, and then I will prepare for the final court date.
You will be required to appear in municipal court on the final court date. This court date is the time for your attorney to discuss any unresolved discovery issues and pending motions with the prosecutor and judge. If there are no outstanding discovery issues or pending motions, you will likely be required to plead guilty or proceed to trial on this court date.
Contact an Atlantic City DUI Lawyer
To learn more about the New Jersey DWI court process and how I can help protect your rights at each stage of your case, call me today at 609-390-4600 to schedule a free consultation.
