Preparing For Your San Diego DUI Trial
Have you been arrested for Driving Under the Influence (DUI) in California? Since the start of the pandemic, reports have indicated that there has been a rise in DUI arrests in the state of California. If you are facing a DUI arrest, it is critical that you secure an experienced DUI attorney who can protect your rights and guide you through the complex legal process.
By working with a skilled attorney who understands DUI laws in California and has experience working in the San Diego courts, you will have your best chance at getting the results you desire. Your DUI defense attorney will help you understand the process and guide you competently through it. However, there are things you can do to put your best foot forward in your California DUI trial.
File Pre-Trial Motions
During your initial meetings and before a trial begins, your attorney has the opportunity to file motions on your behalf. Pre-trial motions can seek to suppress evidence against you and bring to light possible violations of your rights. Your attorney can also investigate the procedures of your arrest to ensure that law enforcement followed the necessary protocols.
If the court accepts your motions, there is a possibility that certain evidence cannot be used against you in trial or that the charges can be dismissed or dropped altogether. In some cases, your attorney can work on your behalf to eliminate the need for a trial, saving you a great deal of time, money and anxiety. If the motion is denied by the court, you will proceed to trial.
Behave Respectfully in the Courtroom
No matter if you think you were wrongfully arrested or that there is not enough evidence against you, when you go to trial it is in your best interest to show respect to the courtroom. Pleasing the judge by being respectful, not interrupting or otherwise being in contempt of court can only work in your favor.
Your attorney can help guide you through courtroom etiquette to ensure that you are putting your best foot forward. For example, the judge should be referred to as “Your Honor” and never by their name.
If the prosecutor says something you disagree with, avoid the urge to speak out or cause a scene. Even if the claims are false, interrupting the proceedings with disrespectful behavior could hurt your case and even result in fines and other penalties.
If you do have a comment or wish to contest something the prosecutor has said about you or your case, speak directly to your attorney who can determine the best course of action.
Be An Asset to Your Case
Even if you have zero legal experience, you can still be a critical asset to your defense. Be open and honest with your attorney throughout the process to ensure that they have the information they need to prepare your best defense. Ask questions of your attorney to ensure that you understand what is happening and to give you the opportunity to provide feedback on your case. Remember, it is your freedom that is on the line.
In the courtroom, in addition to being respectful and abiding by courtroom procedures, take an active role in the case. Take notes so you can keep track of who said what and points that you want your attorney to contest. This will also give you a place to record questions when you debrief with your attorney outside of the courtroom.
Experienced San Diego DUI Attorney
A DUI conviction can have serious ramifications on your personal and professional life. It can cause you to lose jobs, lose contact with family members and can seriously impact your financial situation. If you are facing a DUI arrest in San Diego, you need an experienced DUI attorney who knows the law and can help you achieve the best outcome for your specific case.
Your freedom is your right. Do what you can to protect it by working with a competent, tenacious and skilled DUI defense attorney in San Diego. Attorney Joni Eisenstein has been practicing law in San Diego since 2003 and has a reputation for not only being smart, but for being a fervent advocate for her clients.
If you've been arrested for DUI, contact the Law Office of Joni Eisenstein today to schedule your free consultation.