It's a Mistake to Plead Guilty at Your First Court Appearance

The criminal justice system encourages people who have no experience in the law to make mistakes. Nice people are usually at a severe disadvantage.

It's normal for anyone to feel remorse, confusion and embarrassment after getting a DUI or being charged with any other crime. But it is a mistake to go to court and plead guilty or enter a diversion program at your first court appearance.

If you have been arrested or cited for DUI in Oregon, the best idea is to have an attorney go to court with you, or appear on your behalf, at your first appearance date. Our judges allow plenty of time for persons charged with DUI to decide what to do.