{"id":286687,"date":"2016-04-04T10:45:08","date_gmt":"2016-04-04T15:45:08","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/dui\/cases\/dui-trial.html"},"modified":"2025-07-21T09:53:14","modified_gmt":"2025-07-21T14:53:14","slug":"dui-trial","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/dui\/cases\/dui-trial.html","title":{"rendered":"What To Expect During a DUI Trial"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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What To Expect During a DUI Trial<\/h1>\n\n
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\n By Christie Nicholson, J.D.<\/a> | Legally reviewed by Laura Temme, Esq.<\/a>\n | Last reviewed\n
\n \n <\/i>\n Legally Reviewed\n <\/summary>\n\n
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This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n\n

\n \n <\/i>\n Fact-Checked\n <\/summary>\n\n
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The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n

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Most DUI cases<\/span> are resolved quickly through plea bargains<\/span> rather than going to trial. But defendants may choose trial if they believe the prosecution’s case<\/span> is weak or constitutional violations occurred. The trial process takes more time. It<\/span> includes jury selection<\/span>, witness testimony, opening and closing arguments<\/span>, and jury deliberation to reach a verdict.<\/p>\n\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n

Not all criminal cases go to trial, and even fewer cases involve a jury trial. This is especially true for DUI cases. Even if your case is scheduled for trial, that doesn\u2019t mean your case will go before a judge. Most criminal cases are resolved via a plea bargain, sometimes on the morning of trial.<\/p>\n

Know what to expect during a trial for driving under the influence<\/a> (DUI\/DWI). This article will explain the trial process<\/a> step-by-step, giving you a better idea of how to prepare for your DUI case.<\/p>\n

Keep in mind that DUI\/DWI laws<\/a> vary significantly by state. If you\u2019re facing DUI charges, contact a criminal defense attorney<\/a>. A local attorney will know how DUI trials typically work in your area and can help you build the best defense possible.<\/p>\n

Learn about the DUI trial process below:<\/p>\n