Can a DUI Lawyer Go to My First Portland, Oregon Court Appearance?

If you have a conflict that will not allow you to go to your first DUI court appearance there is a possibility you can hire or retain the services of a DUI lawyer to make an appearance for you. The lawyer must tell you that he or she can appear on your behalf.

The general rule is if you fail to appear for court you forfeit your right to do diversion and a warrant will be issued for your arrest.   You may also be charged with the crime of failure to appear.

There is an exception; in some Oregon courts if you hire an attorney prior to your first appearance and the attorney can appear on your behalf.  Some of these counties include Multnomah County; Clackamas County and Washington County. If you have any questions about appearing in court after a DUI contact Andy Green today at 503-477-5040.

An important piece of information is you must always appear in court on felony DUI charges or any felony charges in general. Failure to appear (FTA) can cause many legal problems. Upon missing a court date a second crime can be charged. It can be a failure to appear in the second degree or failure to appear in the first degree. The court will issue a warrant for your arrest which is known as a bench warrant. We strongly suggest you talk to a lawyer before missing any court date. This could end up saving you a significant amount of jail time and money in the near future.

Having worked with the Multnomah County District Attorneys Office Mr. Andy Green knows the intricacies of the Oregon Court System. Rather than missing your first court appearance and having a warrant out for your arrest it is wise to contact one of the best Portland DUI lawyers today. He can help explain all of your options before your first court date.