What happens at a DUI arraignment in Lexington
You were driving on Interstate 81 through the Shenandoah Valley when a traffic stop turned into an arrest for driving under the influence. Now you have a court date at the Lexington General District Court on South Main Street. You’re anxious and unsure what to expect. The arraignment is your first appearance before a judge, where the DUI charge is formally read, your rights are explained, and you enter a plea. Knowing what happens can help you prepare. An experienced attorney can advocate for you from the start. Call (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation with a Lexington DUI defense lawyer at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
How a lawyer can influence your DUI arraignment
The arraignment is more than a formality. An attorney can begin protecting your rights before you ever step into the courtroom. Before the hearing, counsel reviews the police report, identifies potential weaknesses in the case, and discusses possible resolutions with the Commonwealth’s Attorney. At the arraignment itself, your lawyer can argue for reasonable bail or release on recognizance, address license-suspension issues, and, if appropriate, enter a not-guilty plea while preserving your right to challenge evidence later. Even if you are considering pleading guilty, having an attorney ensures you understand the consequences before you waive important rights. Contact Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747 to learn how they can approach your case.
What to expect at the Lexington General District Court
Your DUI arraignment will take place at the Lexington General District Court, located at 2 South Main Street in the Twenty-fifth Judicial District. Plan to arrive early and check in with the court clerk. When your case is called, the judge will read the charge under Virginia Code § 18.2-266 and advise you of your rights, including the right to an attorney and the right to trial. You will then be asked how you plead: guilty, not guilty, or nolo contendere (no contest). If you plead not guilty, the court will set a trial date—typically within 4 to 8 weeks. The judge will also address bond and any conditions of your release, such as a requirement to abstain from alcohol or to maintain contact with pretrial services. If you have a lawyer, counsel can address these matters on your behalf. DUI arraignments are handled efficiently, but your presence is required unless your attorney secures a waiver. For many defendants, this is the first step in a longer legal process.
Potential consequences of a Virginia DUI conviction
Driving under the influence in Virginia is a criminal offense, not a simple traffic ticket. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record and can affect employment, professional licenses, and driving privileges. Even a first-time offense can result in incarceration, substantial fines, and a lengthy license suspension. The court may also order an ignition interlock device and require completion of the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP). Beyond the court-imposed penalties, a DUI conviction typically leads to significantly higher auto insurance premiums and may impact your ability to travel internationally. Given these consequences, the decisions you make at your arraignment—and every court appearance afterward—carry real weight. A lawyer who understands Lexington’s court procedures can help you navigate the process and strive for favorable outcomes.
About Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has been practicing since 1997. He is a former prosecutor who has testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). With bar admissions in Virginia, Maryland, D.C., New Jersey, and New York, he brings a multi-state perspective to every case. His Of Counsel team includes experienced litigators who concentrate on DUI defense. Together, they have documented case results in Lexington City, including 14 reported outcomes with favorable results in all instances. Results may vary. When you call, you will speak with our firm, not an automated system. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your arraignment.
Frequently Asked Questions about DUI arraignments in Lexington
What is a DUI arraignment in Lexington?
A DUI arraignment is the first court hearing where you are formally told of the charge against you and you enter a plea. It is held at the Lexington General District Court. The judge will read the DUI charge under Virginia Code § 18.2-266, explain your right to an attorney, and ask how you plead. This hearing sets the stage for the rest of your case. Unless you have a lawyer and a waiver is filed, you must appear in person. Call (888) 437-7747 to speak with a local attorney who can guide you through the process.
Do I have to attend the arraignment in person?
Yes, unless your attorney has obtained a waiver from the court, you must appear in person at the Lexington General District Court. Most judges require the defendant’s presence for a DUI arraignment. If you fail to appear, the judge may issue a bench warrant for your arrest. Your attorney can inform you if a waiver is possible. Contact the firm before your court date to discuss your options.
Can I plead not guilty at the arraignment?
Yes, you can plead not guilty at your DUI arraignment. Pleading not guilty preserves your right to challenge the prosecution’s evidence at trial. The court will then set a trial date—commonly within a few weeks. Even if you later decide to negotiate a resolution, entering a not-guilty plea initially does not harm your case. An attorney can help you decide the trusted plea.
What if I can’t afford a lawyer?
If you cannot afford a private attorney, you may ask the court to appoint a public defender or court-appointed counsel. You must complete a financial statement and qualify based on income. However, the court may also allow you time to hire private counsel. A private DUI attorney can often devote more individual attention to your case. Call (888) 437-7747 to discuss flexible consultation options.
Will I go to jail after the arraignment?
Generally, not unless the judge determines you pose a flight risk or danger to the community. DUI defendants are typically released on bond or personal recognizance pending trial. The judge may impose conditions, such as abstaining from alcohol or maintaining employment. Your attorney can advocate for the least restrictive conditions. Contact us for more information.
What happens if I plead guilty at the arraignment?
Pleading guilty at the arraignment means you waive your right to trial and typically results in immediate sentencing or a later sentencing hearing. The judge will inform you of the consequences and ensure you understand the plea. Given the serious penalties of a DUI conviction, it is usually advisable to consult with a lawyer before entering any plea. A guilty plea can rarely be withdrawn later.
How long does the DUI process take in Lexington?
After arraignment, a first-offense DUI case often takes several months to resolve. The court sets a trial date within weeks, but litigation, motions, and negotiation can extend the timeline. If you appeal a district court conviction to circuit court, the process may take longer. Each case is unique. Call (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.
Can I get my DUI charge reduced?
It is sometimes possible to negotiate a reduction to reckless driving or another offense, depending on the case. The Commonwealth’s Attorney in Lexington has discretion to amend charges. Factors such as your BAC level, driving behavior, and prior record affect this possibility. An experienced DUI lawyer can evaluate your case and pursue a reduction when appropriate. Results vary.
What is the difference between DUI and DWI in Virginia?
Virginia uses the term DUI (Driving Under the Influence) for alcohol-related offenses; there is no DWI separate offense. The law, Va. Code § 18.2-266, prohibits driving with a BAC of 0.08% or higher or while impaired. The term DWI is sometimes used colloquially but is not a distinct charge. Regardless of what the officer called it, a DUI charge carries serious consequences.
Should I hire a lawyer before the arraignment?
Yes. Hiring a lawyer before your Lexington DUI arraignment allows counsel to prepare your defense from the very beginning. Your lawyer can review the arrest report, discuss strategy with the prosecutor, and appear with you at court. Early involvement can influence bond, plea options, and the overall direction of your case. Call (888) 437-7747 now to schedule a consultation.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has a DUI arraignment coming up in Lexington, do not wait. Speak with an experienced attorney who knows the local courts. Call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Our firm serves clients throughout the Shenandoah Valley from our Woodstock location, by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
505 N Main St, Suite 103
Woodstock, VA 22664
(888) 437-7747
For a detailed analysis of Virginia DUI statutes and defense strategies, see our firm’s DUI practice page.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.