Court Process

So, you’ve just been charged with a DUI in Derby, Connecticut. Most likely, this is your first run-in with the law, and you are probably at a loss when it comes to what to expect next. We are here to guide you through this oftentimes troubling experience and hopefully give you a sense of confidence as you go through the court process. Read on to learn more about what to expect from the court process if you have been arrested for a Derby DUI and also feel free to contact us if you have additional questions.

What to Expect in Derby

You will likely have to appear in court at some point if you have been arrested for a DUI in Derby. The location of the crime/arrest will determine what courthouse your case is heard in. So, if you were arrested in Derby for a DUI, your case will be heard at the Derby Courthouse, also known as Geographical Area (G.A.) 5. The other towns that filter into the Derby Courthouse are Ansonia, Beacon Falls, Orange, Oxford, Seymour, and Shelton.

You can expect that it may take some time for your court date to be scheduled or for you case to be completed. This is due in part to personnel such as judges and prosecutors controlling the docket in the courthouse. Alternatively, you may choose to ask for a continuance to delay your case in order to have extra time to find the right lawyer or build your defense. Either way, you can expect your Derby DUI case to take up to a year to complete.

If you are facing a first-offense DUI with no aggravating factors, you can expect to be charged with a misdemeanor. Subsequent offenses or those that include aggravating factors, such as an accident causing injury or death to another person, will most likely be charged and prosecuted as felonies. Unlike most motor vehicle violations, the DUI is not considered an infraction in Connecticut. An infraction usually results in a fine and could result in points against your driver’s license, but infractions are not considered crimes. As such, there is no potential jail time associated with infractions. This is not the case for DUI charges, whether they are considered misdemeanors or felonies. You may be looking at some jail time if you are convicted of a DUI, but especially for a first offender, the jail sentence may be suspended.

When you appear in court, it is best to have a Derby DUI defense lawyer on your side. A lawyer can ensure that your rights are not violated throughout the court process. If you have any questions when you get to the courthouse, such as what courtroom you should report to, ask your lawyer or a court clerk. The clerks know the ins and outs of the courthouse and can advise you.

Remember that you will be dealing with prosecutors and judges if you are charged with a Derby DUI. Make sure to always be respectful towards this personnel. It does not pay to make enemies with the prosecutor or judge assigned to your case.

The Help You Need

You do not have to go through the Derby courthouse process alone. That is where our team comes in. We can attend your court dates with you, and in some cases, attend on your behalf. We have handled cases in every courthouse throughout the state of Connecticut for over a decade. We can protect your rights and your future. Contact us today to get started on your DUI defense. We are happy to discuss your situation with you during a free consultation.