If you have been charged with a DUI in Island County or Skagit County you will be required to appear at both a "preliminary" hearing and an arraignment. Typically, in most every other county, you would simply appear at an arraignment (where you are advised of your rights and enter a plea of not guilty). However, in Island and Skagit Counties you must appear at the preliminary hearing prior to entering a plea (the preliminary hearing is usually the next available court day after your arrest). In such a case the Judge will find probable cause and then set conditions of release. These conditions may be simple such as re-appear at the arraignment or can be as severe as ordering you to wear a SCRAM bracelet (alcohol detection device on your ankle) or even take you into custody (if you have prior DUI convictions this should cause you concern - get an Island County DUI attorney or Skagit County DUI attorney to be with you!).
After your preliminary hearing you'll be ordered back to court for your formal arraignment about two weeks later. If you hire Island County DUI attorney or Skagit County DUI attorney after your preliminary hearing the attorney can "waive" your arraignment - therefore you would not need to appear.
These procedures in both courts are much different than other courts so be sure you consult with a DUI attorney who is familiar with either court. For information on DUI cases in Island County or Skagit County please contact one of our DUI attorneys at 425-493-1115 or check out our website at www.washdui.com
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