Court Process

Dealing with a Waterbury DUI arrest and the consequences that come with it can be a slow and frustrating process because once the case reaches the court process, the control lies with the judges, clerks, and prosecutors. Every courthouse moves at its own pace, and the time it takes to reach the end of a case typically depends on the caseload in that courthouse at the time. Generally, cases are delayed for weeks and sometimes months, and though this can be aggravating for a client, it is quite normal and generally not something that can be sped up, so patience during the process is critical.

Connecticut’s Court Process

One of the most stressful and confusing parts of the court process is when their attorney requests continuances, or delays in the case. Continuances are extended periods of time that are necessary for a case because it allows time for the attorneys to obtain all of the information necessary and time to study the case to get the best outcome possible for the client. Working with the attorney and being patient with the attorneys and the court is very important.

DUI cases are criminal cases in the state of Connecticut, which means that the case will be held at a Superior Court in the area where the alleged DUI occurred. The section of the Superior Court is called a geographical area and it includes the geographical region of the state that the particular case belongs to.

For example, Waterbury Superior Court, G.A. 4, is in charge of cases that arise out of the towns of Prospect, Naugatuck, Middlebury, Southbury, Watertown, Waterbury, Woodbury, and Wolcott. Contact us to learn more about the Waterbury DUI court process.

Television shows, movies, and other media sometimes refer to the prosecution as the DA, but in Connecticut, they are called State’s Attorneys. The States Attorneys represent the people of the state and work to prosecute those that they believe have committed a crime in the state. On the other side, the defense attorneys represent defendants and advocate for their clients while defending their Constitutional Rights.

Types of Crimes and the Court Process

There are many different categories of crimes, but at the most basic level, there are three categories: felonies, misdemeanors, and infractions. Felonies are the most serious offenses that carry the most severe punishments, including prison sentences of a year or more. Misdemeanors are a class of crimes that are less serious than felonies but are still punishable by a prison sentence of up to one year. Infractions are the least serious and are punishable by fines, programs, and community service. Some infractions may not even require a courthouse appearance and instead would require something like mailing in a fine after receiving a traffic ticket.

Going to Court

The importance of courthouse etiquette is something that may not be expressed much and is not something that is often portrayed on television. Factors like demeanor, speech, and clothing are all things that a prosecutor and a judge take notice of, and they can be something that makes the difference in a criminal case.

Appearing in court, a defendant should carry him or herself in a way that does not come off as offensive or aggressive, but respectful and aware of the seriousness of the circumstances for which they are there. Speech is equally important, and defendants should not speak to a judge unless directly spoken to or are told to do so by their attorney. It may go without saying, but the use of vulgar or offensive language is inappropriate in this setting.

Additionally, a good impression with the judge and prosecutor can go a long way and part of making a good impression is dressing in a way that acknowledges the seriousness of the situation. Wear business clothing to court such as a dress shirt, dress shoes, and a tie for men and a dress, blouse, skirt, nice shoes, sweater, or business jacket for women. It is not recommended that a defendant appear in court wearing jeans, hats, t-shirts, or anything that may be inappropriate or insulting because the judge and others in the court will take notice of this.

Going through the court process can be stressful and intimidating, but it is important to remember that having a good attorney to advocate for you and your case is critical for getting the best outcome possible. If you have been charged with a DUI in Waterbury, call Lady DUI today to speak with an attorney about the court process.