Following a DWI arrest, several things occur. The officer typically issues a summons indicating the charges and a court date. The driver receives temporary documentation regarding their license status.
New Jersey uses a Public Safety Assessment system rather than traditional cash bail. Most DWI defendants are released following processing at the police station.
The first court appearance is the arraignment, usually scheduled within a few weeks of the arrest. At arraignment, charges are formally read, and a plea is entered. Most defendants plead not guilty at this stage.
A drunk driving lawyer New Jersey can begin working on the case immediately after arrest. Early involvement allows attorneys to preserve evidence, request discovery promptly, and prepare for initial court appearances.
Documenting details while they are fresh may be helpful. Writing down what occurred during the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and breath testing can assist attorneys during case evaluation. A DUI dismissal lawyer New Jersey reviews these details alongside official documentation to understand the complete picture.
Consulting with an attorney before the first court date helps individuals understand the process ahead.