#Plead not guilty how to
#Plead not guilty trial

How to enter an initial Plea for Arizona DUI or Criminal ChargesĬourt rules in Arizona vary by court, and jurisdiction. In the case of a felony the Judge may set a hearing for a future date for the sentencing. The judge will usually proceed with sentencing at this time.

#Plead not guilty trial

However, at the same time, you do not wish to challenge the charges or evidence at trial and will accept the conviction, sentencing and penalties for that charge (without admitting guilt) as ordered by the Judge. By entering this plea you hold, that you are not admitting guilt to a DUI or criminal offense. It is also known as also known as 'Nolo Contendere”. In effect, the end result is similar to accepting a guilty plea, but without actually admitting guilt. “No Contest” – This plea is less often used. For Felonies a sentencing hearing will be scheduled by the judge for an advanced date and timeģ. The Phoenix AZ Court judge will usually proceed with sentencing for the crime at that time.

In effect, by pleading guilty, you have waived your right to retain a criminal or DUI attorney to defend or challenge the charges against you. “Guilty” - You admit that you are guilty as charged or have committed the act charged in the complaint(s) that the act you committed was a violation of the law and that you have no legal defense for your actions. If you enter a plea of “not guilty” at your arraignment, the Judge will set your case for either a pre-trial conference or a formal trial date.Ģ. In this case, the burden of proof lies with the state and prosecution to prove guilt of the DUI or criminal charge against you. If effect, this plea holds that you wish to deny any guilt. If you have not yet retained one, you will get the opportunity to enter this initial plea at your arraignment. “Not Guilty” – This plea may be entered on your behalf by your Arizona criminal or DUI attorney.

The three types of initial pleas that can be entered in Arizona criminal or DUI courts are “Not Guilty”, “Guilty”, and “No Contest”.ġ. (These are in contrast to “Plea Agreements” or “Plea Bargains” which may be negotiated with the assistance of your AZ criminal defense lawyer toward an acceptable resolution). This discussion is about your initial plea. There are three types of pleas you can enter at your Arraignment. Below are the three possible pleas that a defendant can enter when facing DUI or criminal charges and their effects. You should do this well before your scheduled Arraignment date, to discuss your AZ criminal or DUI charges, defense options, and what type of plea you plan to enter at your hearing. If you have a scheduled Arraignment for an Arizona crime or DUI charge you should consult an Arizona DUI lawyer or Criminal Defense Attorney. You should become familiar with the types of pleas you can initially enter and the potential consequences of your plea. Maricopa County Criminal Defense Lawyer How to Plea (Initial) in Maricopa County Criminal Courtĭeciding what type of initial plea to enter in Maricopa County Criminal Courts is one of the most important decisions you will need to make.