New Canaan DUI Jury Trials

If you have been charged with a DUI, you should contact an experienced DUI lawyer as soon as possible. New Canaan prosecutors take DUI cases seriously, so it is important to hire a qualified attorney to help you build the optimum case. The best lawyers can handle everything from plea deals to New Canaan DUI jury trials if necessary.

What are the Types of DUI Trials?

A bench trial would be a trial in front of the judge only. A jury trial would consist of jurors who will make the final determination in any given case. There are six jurors selected for this type of charge.

If there was anything particularly egregious about the case, or if the person has a previous DUI, those might be considerations to request a bench trial. If the state will have difficulty proving its case, the defendant is credible or sympathetic, or the jury might like the defendant, then the lawyer might recommend a jury trial. The lawyer will also consider whether the police have followed the book in their actions. Ultimately, the facts of each case will help determine the best choice for that specific circumstance.

Benefits of a Jury Trial

One of the main benefits is that the state would have to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt to six people, rather than just a judge. All six jurors would have to agree unanimously that the person is guilty. Even if five jurors think the person is guilty, they will not be convicted as long as one person feels that the state has failed to meet its burden. That is probably the most significant benefit.

Downsides to a Jury Trial

Sometimes New Canaan DUI jury trials could be boring, especially when the state and the defendant both have expert witnesses. Examinations and cross-examinations of experts can include scientific knowledge and background that some jurors might find hard to follow, or are just not interested in, and may not pay close attention to every single part of the case.

Jury Selection Process

In Connecticut, the jury selection process is actually more involved than it is in other states. Each side can individually question each potential juror to determine what their backgrounds are like and ascertain whether or not they know anyone that has been affected by a DUI, or if they personally have any issues with alcohol. It is a good screening process to pick jurors that would be best for a particular case.

Benefits of a New Canaan DUI Attorney

Someone charged with a DUI wants an experienced lawyer who can scrutinize all of the evidence and give their best advice, whether or not there is a good chance of winning at trial. It is risky to go to trial because if a person loses, there is potential jail time on the line. It is important to have an attorney who could advise on the risks of going to trial, make sure everything is done properly, protect the defendant’s rights, and make sure every helpful piece of evidence is presented to the jury or to the judge.

For a favorable outcome in your case, you should contact a top attorney with experience handling New Canaan DUI jury trials.