If you were arrested for DUI in Glendale, your first formal court appearance will typically be the arraignment. For many people, this is their first time in a courtroom. As a result, the process can feel intimidating and confusing. However, understanding what happens at a DUI arraignment can reduce stress and help you prepare.
Arizona DUI laws are strict, and even a first-time offense carries mandatory penalties. Therefore, taking the arraignment seriously is critical. Guardian Law provides strategic and aggressive DUI defense representation for individuals facing charges in Glendale and throughout Maricopa County.
What Is a DUI Arraignment?
An arraignment is the first court hearing in your criminal case. At this hearing, the judge formally advises you of the charges against you and your constitutional rights. Additionally, the court will ask you to enter a plea.
Importantly, the arraignment is not a trial. The court does not determine guilt or innocence at this stage. Instead, the proceeding focuses on officially starting the case.
What Happens During the Arraignment?
Although each case is slightly different, most DUI arraignments in Glendale follow a structured process.
1. The Judge Calls Your Case
When your case is called, you (and your attorney, if you have one) approach the front of the courtroom. The judge confirms your identity and reviews the charges filed against you.
2. The Charges Are Read
The court will formally state the DUI charge, which may include:
- Standard DUI (BAC of 0.08% or impairment to the slightest degree)
- Extreme DUI (BAC of 0.15% or higher)
- Super Extreme DUI (BAC of 0.20% or higher)
- Aggravated DUI (felony DUI in certain circumstances)
Because Arizona law distinguishes between these levels, the potential penalties vary significantly.
3. Advisement of Rights
The judge will advise you of your constitutional rights, including:
- The right to remain silent
- The right to an attorney
- The right to a trial
- The right to confront witnesses
- The right to present evidence
If you have not hired a private attorney, the court may discuss appointing a public defender depending on financial eligibility.
4. Entering a Plea
At arraignment, you will enter a plea. In most DUI cases, defendants enter a plea of “not guilty.” This allows the case to move forward into the pretrial phase, where evidence can be reviewed and negotiations may occur.
Entering a not guilty plea does not mean the case will go to trial. Instead, it preserves your rights and gives your defense attorney time to analyze the evidence.
5. Scheduling Future Court Dates
After the plea, the judge schedules future hearings. These may include:
- Pretrial conferences
- Motion hearings
- Settlement conferences
- Trial dates if necessary
The court may also discuss conditions of release, such as travel restrictions or compliance requirements.
What You Should Wear and How to Act
First impressions matter. Although arraignments are brief, you should:
- Dress professionally and conservatively
- Arrive early
- Turn off your phone
- Address the judge respectfully
Demonstrating seriousness and respect can positively influence how the court views your case.
Will You Go to Jail at Arraignment?
In most misdemeanor DUI cases, especially first-time offenses, defendants are not taken into custody at arraignment if they were previously released. However, circumstances such as prior failures to appear or aggravated DUI charges may affect release conditions.
If you face a felony aggravated DUI, the court may review bond or release terms more carefully.
What Happens After the Arraignment?
After arraignment, your case enters the pretrial phase. This is where much of the defense work occurs.
Your attorney may:
- Obtain and review police reports
- Analyze body camera and dash camera footage
- Examine breath or blood test records
- Investigate whether the traffic stop was lawful
- Challenge field sobriety testing procedures
- File motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence
Because DUI cases often involve technical and scientific evidence, careful review is critical.
Administrative License Suspension Issues
Separate from the court case, DUI arrests often trigger administrative license suspension through the Arizona Motor Vehicle Division (MVD).
If your BAC measured 0.08% or higher—or if you refused chemical testing—you typically have a limited time to request a hearing to challenge the suspension. Therefore, acting quickly after arrest is essential.
The arraignment does not resolve license suspension issues. Those are handled separately.
Why Having an Attorney at Arraignment Matters
Although arraignments are brief, having an experienced DUI defense attorney present can make a difference. Your attorney can:
- Ensure your rights are protected
- Enter the appropriate plea
- Address release conditions
- Begin negotiating with prosecutors
- Develop a strategic defense plan
Early legal involvement often shapes the direction of the case.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a DUI arraignment take?
Most arraignments are relatively short, often lasting only a few minutes once your case is called.
Do I need to speak at my arraignment?
Typically, your attorney speaks on your behalf. You may only need to confirm your identity and plea.
Can my DUI case be dismissed at arraignment?
Dismissals rarely occur at arraignment. However, your attorney can begin identifying weaknesses in the case that may lead to dismissal later.
Should I plead guilty at arraignment?
In most cases, defendants enter a not guilty plea at arraignment to preserve their rights and allow time to review evidence.
What happens if I miss my arraignment?
Failing to appear can result in a bench warrant for your arrest and additional legal consequences. Always attend your scheduled court date.
Contact Guardian Law Today
Facing a DUI arraignment in Glendale can feel intimidating, but you do not have to face the process alone. Early and strategic legal representation can protect your rights and position your case for the best possible outcome.
Call Guardian Law today at (602) 888-8020 for a confidential consultation.