How to Plead in a DUI Case

Sometimes when you are charged with a DUI, you simply want to plead and get the case over with. Someone who is charged with a DUI is charged with driving under the influence of alcohol. This is sometimes a misdemeanor crime and sometimes is a felony, depending on the severity of the incident.

Instructions

1. Decide whether to hire an attorney or whether you will represent yourself. If you are pleading guilty, you probably want to represent yourself and save your attorney fees. But the choice of whether to hire an attorney in this instance is truly a personal one.

2. Talk with the prosecutor before your arraignment, if you wish, to discuss your plea. The prosecutor may be willing to reduce the charge or the sentence for you in exchange for your decision to plead guilty in the DUI case.

3. Attend the court arraignment at the specified time on your DUI ticket. Arrive early if possible. Check in with the clerk to let court officials know that you are there. Wait until they call your name for your arraignment.

4. Tell the judge that you decided to plead guilty to the DUI charge, when he asks how you would wish to plead. The judge may then ask you whether you understand the seriousness of the charges against you. Tell him that you do.

5. Listen to the judge as he sentences you for your crime. The judge likely will sentence you right then and there. You should pay your fee at your earliest convenience and serve your jail sentence if that was part of your sentence.