In Hawaii, persons who are arrested for DUI have to go through two separate proceedings. The administrative license revocation process and court. Here, you will find out what to expect at court.
Initial Appearance
When you bailed out, or were released the next day by a judge, you were given a court date. Generally speaking, that is your arraignment date. Arraignment is where you enter an appearance and say whether you are guilty or not guilty. You do not have the right to a jury trial unless charged with Habitual DUI.
Trial
Your next court date will be about 6 weeks after the arraignment date. That is when the State, through the Prosecutor's Office, must present evidence to show beyond a reasonable doubt that you were driving while impaired at the time of arrest. For blood alcohol cases, a blood alcohol content of .08 or higher is enough to secure a conviction.
If the State's witnesses aren't there at the first court appearance, they will generally be allowed to continue the case for about one month to try and get their witnesses into court. The State may get a number of continuances, but if they don't bring you to trial within 6 months of arrest, your case can get dismissed because you have a right to a speedy trial.
