How long does a DUI trial typically last?
A DUI trial normally takes several days to complete. The first day is normally consumed by trial motions and the selection of a jury by your attorney and the prosecution. On the second day of trial, the prosecution will commence its case by presenting the testimony of the arresting officer, lab technicians, witnesses and expert witnesses, if needed. After these individuals are cross-examined by the defense, the government rests after which the defense may then present evidence on their behalf, by calling the defendant, witnesses and/or expert witnesses, if needed. After both sides have presented their case to the jury (1-2 days in less complex DUI cases), closing arguments will be made and the Court will give the jury instructions prior to their deliberations. Deliberations may take anywhere from several minutes to several days, even weeks in a complex criminal case.
