Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers | April 3, 2025 | Criminal Defense
In California, a driving under the influence (DUI) charge can mean major penalties, such as license suspensions, hefty fines, and possibly jail time. If you’re facing DUI charges, one of your biggest worries might be whether you’ll end up going to trial.
The quick answer is that most DUI cases do not go all the way to trial. Many conclude through plea deals, dismissals, or other forms of negotiation. Still, every case is different, and there are circumstances where going to trial may be in your best interest.
Plea Deals and Negotiations
For many defendants, a plea bargain offers a way to resolve a DUI case without the stress of a courtroom battle. In a plea deal, the defendant agrees to plead guilty—often to a reduced charge or with a certain sentence limit—and in return, the prosecutor avoids the time and cost of a trial. This process also benefits the court system, which is often overcrowded.
Why do defendants accept plea deals? If the state’s evidence seems solid, taking a plea might lead to lower penalties than if you risk a full trial. On the other hand, if the evidence is weak or if there were errors in the police stop, you might decide to push for a better deal or even go to trial.
It is best not to accept an offer for a plea deal without speaking with your attorney first. Sometimes, a skilled lawyer can have your charges dismissed altogether.
Reasons a DUI Case Might Go to Trial
A DUI case may go to trial for a multitude of reasons, some of which come up more often than others. These include:
- Weak evidence: If the prosecution’s case has flaws—like an unreliable breath test or missing key details—your lawyer may see a chance for a “not guilty” verdict. If the prosecutor won’t drop or reduce the charge, a trial may be worth it.
- Unacceptable plea offers: Sometimes, the plea deal might still feel too harsh. If the penalties seem no better than what you might face at trial, going to court could make more sense.
- Serious prior offenses: If you have multiple past DUIs, the penalties go up. You might prefer a trial if you feel the stakes are already high and you believe the state’s evidence isn’t strong enough to convict you.
- Driver’s personal reasons: Some people prefer to fight in court rather than admit guilt, especially if losing a license or job is at risk. This personal choice can prompt a trial even if a plea deal is on the table.
Even with these factors, few DUI cases progress to a full jury or bench trial. Trials can be expensive and lengthy for both sides, pushing many to settle sooner.
Weighing the Risks and Benefits
If you’re deciding whether to go to trial, it’s important to talk with an experienced lawyer. A trial might lead to a better outcome if you believe the evidence is on your side or if the plea deal doesn’t offer a real advantage.
However, a trial also carries more risk: losing in court can bring stricter penalties than a plea deal might have included. With a solid defense strategy, you could present doubts about the accuracy of breath tests, field sobriety tests, or how police handled the stop.
Contact a DUI Defense Attorney at Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers Today For Help
If you’re facing a DUI in California, it’s normal to worry about penalties, court dates, and your future. An experienced DUI defense attorney can review the evidence, tell you how strong the state’s case is, and help you decide if going to trial is your best move.
Most lawyers offer free consultations, so you can learn about your options right away. Reach out to a qualified lawyer today to protect your rights and aim for the best possible outcome in your DUI case.
For more information, please contact the San Diego criminal defense attorneys at Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers for a free consultation, give us a call at (619) 357-4977, or visit our convenient location:
Blair Defense Criminal Lawyers – San Diego Criminal Defense Law Firm
255 Broadway, Ste 1740. San Diego, CA. 92101
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