Atlanta Municipal Court Appearances

For many people, an arrest for driving under the influence in Atlanta will give them their first experience in an Atlanta Municipal Court. Having to appear in court can be a confusing and intimidating experience. Each court has its own unique set of norms and procedures that are unfamiliar to the average citizen. In most cases, even where you are able to represent yourself, having a lawyer represent you can save you time and even money. There is a lot at stake in an Atlanta DUI case, including fees, fines, DUI school, increased insurance premiums, substance abuse counseling, and even jail time. Before you decide to represent yourself at a DUI hearing in Atlanta Municipal Court, it is important to consider that hiring a DUI lawyer can save you money in the end, in addition to keeping your record clear and keeping your driver's license.

What to Do When Appearing in Court

First, make sure you read all documents and notifications carefully. Understand where and when you have to appear for court. If you do not appear, you may have a failure to appear (FTA). An FTA will add additional steps and complications to your case. A failure to appear can even lead to you having a warrant for your arrest. Just for not appearing in court, you may be at risk of getting arrested.

When you arrive for your court hearing date, you must arrive early, and be prepared to wait. Leave plenty of time to park, pass through security and find your court room so you will ready when your case is called. Unfortunately, there is the chance that the court will not have time to hear your case, and it will have to be rescheduled for a different day, requiring you to come back to the court on another day. If you hire a lawyer, they will be able to appear on your behalf, so you don't have to take a day off of work, or spend hours waiting in the courtroom.

It is important to dress appropriately for court. Dressing professionally will demonstrate to the judge that you are taking the matter seriously and showing respect to the court. Showing respect for the court and deference to the judge will go a long way in making sure that the judge listens to and considers what your have to say. Even if you think that your arrest was unfair and that the court hearing is unnecessary, the court appearance will be your chance to have your case dismissed or get a not-guilty verdict.

Bring all relevant documentation you plan to reference in support of your case. Make photocopies of any relevant pictures or documents so that you can provide them to the court if necessary. If you have any electronic documents, be sure to print them out and bring them with you. The judge will not be interested in any documents you left at home, or any emails you have on your phone or computer.

Atlanta Municipal Court Lawyer

You must take your municipal court appearance seriously because time, money and even jail time may be at stake. Contact an experienced Atlanta DUI defense lawyer to discuss your case, and the possible associated penalties and what defenses may be available. Call me today so we can talk about what happened when you were arrested, and I will be able to appear for you in court, and fight so that your arrest does not lead to a conviction.