What Happens at a Stamford DUI Arraignment?

When you’re arrested for DUI in Stamford, your very first court appearance is called the arraignment. This hearing typically takes place at the Stamford Superior Court located at 123 Hoyt Street. It can be intimidating to walk into court, especially if you have never been there before, but understanding the process helps remove uncertainty.

An arraignment is not your trial. You will not be found guilty or sentenced that day. Instead, the purpose is procedural: to make sure you understand the charges, to protect your rights, and to set the stage for what comes next in your case.

The Stamford Superior Court is a busy courthouse. On any given morning, dozens of defendants line up to check in with marshals and clerks. Security screening is mandatory, so arrive at least 30 minutes early.

Most DUI arraignments are held in the Part B courtroom, where lower-level felonies and misdemeanors are heard. The courtroom itself is formal: the judge sits elevated at the bench, prosecutors (Assistant State’s Attorneys) sit at one table, and defense attorneys at the other. Marshals control the courtroom and escort defendants.

When your name is called, you’ll stand next to your lawyer at the defense table.

You will check in with the court clerk, pass through a metal detector, and wait in the assigned courtroom.

If you’ve hired a private lawyer, you’ll meet with them before your case is called. Your attorney may speak to the prosecutor in advance to discuss bond or conditions of release.

The clerk announces your name. You walk with your lawyer to the front of the courtroom. The judge confirms your identity.

Most defendants plead Not Guilty at arraignment. This preserves defenses and allows time to review evidence. Rarely does anyone plead guilty at this stage.

The judge decides how you will be released pending trial. Options include:

• Promise to Appear (PTA): No money required. Most first-time DUI cases qualify.
• Non-Surety Bond: A set dollar amount, but no money is posted unless you fail to appear.
• Surety Bond: You may need to pay a bondsman or post cash to be released. More common in repeat offender cases.
• Conditions: The court may impose conditions like no driving without an ignition interlock device, alcohol evaluation, or counseling.

The judge sets your next appearance, usually called a pretrial conference. This is when negotiations, motions, and case review begin.

While each judge has their own style, Stamford judges generally:

• Treat first-time DUIs seriously but fairly, often granting release on PTA.
• Require bonds or stricter conditions for repeat offenders, accidents with injuries, or very high BAC cases.
• Encourage defendants to obtain a lawyer early to streamline the process.

• First-Time DUI: Usually PTA release, with arraignment lasting under 5 minutes. Your lawyer may begin discussing eligibility for the Impaired Driving Intervention Program (IDIP).
• Second or Third DUI: Judges may set significant bond, impose stricter conditions, or order alcohol treatment assessments. These arraignments take longer and are more contested.

Do:

• Hire a lawyer before the arraignment if possible.
• Dress neatly in business casual clothing.
• Arrive 30–45 minutes early.
• Bring paperwork from your arrest and bond.

Don’t:

• Speak directly to the judge unless asked.
• Try to explain “your side” of the story.
• Joke, chew gum, or act disrespectful.
• Miss the arraignment — failure to appear = arrest warrant.

After arraignment, your case moves into the pretrial phase. This is where most DUI cases are resolved. Your attorney will:

• Request discovery (police reports, body cam footage, BAC test results).
• Evaluate defenses (illegal stop, faulty testing, etc.).
• Negotiate with prosecutors for dismissal, reduction, or program admission.
• File motions to suppress evidence if necessary.

If diversionary programs like IDIP are approved, you may avoid a criminal conviction entirely.

• Address: 123 Hoyt Street, Stamford, CT 06905
• Parking: Limited metered parking is available nearby. A public parking garage is located at the Stamford Government Center, a short walk away.
• Tip: Bring quarters or use a credit card parking app — parking enforcement around the courthouse is strict.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stamford DUI Arraignments

At Stamford Superior Court, 123 Hoyt Street.

Yes. Missing your arraignment results in a bench warrant.

Your case may last 5 minutes, but you could wait hours for your case to be called.

No. Plead not guilty unless you have consulted with a lawyer.

Not usually. Most first-time DUI cases are released on PTA.

Yes, especially for repeat offenses or high-BAC cases.

No. Discovery usually comes later.

You may request a public defender at arraignment if you qualify financially.

Not directly. License suspension is handled by the DMV.

Your case proceeds to pretrial conferences where motions, negotiations, or program applications occur.

Yes, especially for repeat offenders or very high BAC.

Rarely. Most dismissals happen later, after motions or program completion.

No. It is an open courtroom with other defendants present.

Sometimes. Your lawyer may discuss release conditions or program eligibility with the prosecutor.

Your attorney may request special accommodation to appear via Microsoft Tems, but you must appear in person unless excused.

A Stamford DUI arraignment may feel overwhelming, but it is just the first step in the process. With preparation, professionalism, and an experienced defense lawyer at your side, it can be navigated smoothly.

I’ve represented thousands of clients at Stamford Superior Court over the last 30 plus years and know exactly what to expect at arraignment — and how to set your case up for the best possible outcome.

📞 Call The Law Office of Allan F. Friedman today for a free consultation.