As with any arrest or legal situation, it's important to know your rights before you find yourself in the wrong situations. If you are ever arrested and charged with driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated, you have the right to legal representation.

How long is the process?

Once you've been stopped for a possible DWI, you should know exactly how to proceed. Here is a short list of the events that will occur should you find yourself in this situation:

1. Traffic Stop

2. Arrest

3. Booking

4. Preliminary Hearing

5. Trial

6. Sentencing

Retaining a lawyer as soon as possible will be very helpful, since lawyers that specialize in DWI cases are familiar with the steps that must be followed to help you avoid conviction. Being sure that you answer no questions until you've spoken with your attorney will go a long way in assuring that you receive the best possible outcome. These steps can occur rather quickly, but in the case of a jury trial, the process may extend out over a number of weeks or months.