How Long Does a DUI Case Take From Start to Finish in North Carolina?

By Doug Edwards

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DUI/DWI Defense

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Last Modified on Sep 25, 2025

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense in North Carolina that comes with severe consequences if you’re convicted. However, getting arrested today doesn’t mean you’ll have your trial tomorrow. How long does a DUI case take from start to finish in North Carolina? An Asheville DUI lawyer can help you understand how long it takes to resolve these cases.

What to Know About DUIs in North Carolina

North Carolina saw 11,860 alcohol-related crashes in 2022. From 2017 to 2022, North Carolina averaged more than one DUI fatality per day. While not every DUI results in an accident, it’s important to get some insight into how these crimes impact the community.

If you’re stopped under suspicion of a DUI, it’s important to cooperate with the officer. If you’re arrested, kindly request to speak with your attorney, and don’t say anything until they arrive. Everything you do from the moment you’re stopped can impact your case, including how long it might take to resolve.

Arrest and Arraignment

Following your traffic stop, the officer on the scene will arrest you if they have reason to believe you’re under the influence. They may establish probable cause by administering a field sobriety test or breathalyzer. If you refuse a breathalyzer, they will take you into custody immediately to get a blood test. At this point, you may be formally arrested for DUI.

Within 72 hours in most jurisdictions, you’ll make your first appearance in court for your DUI charges. This is called an arraignment. The judge will read your charges aloud, you’ll enter your plea, and the judge will set bail.

Preliminary Hearing and Pretrial Preparations

At the preliminary hearing, the prosecutor shares the evidence against you. At this point, the judge will decide if there is enough evidence proving your guilt for the case to proceed before setting the date for your next appearance.

In the meantime, the prosecutor and your lawyer will make pretrial motions and prepare their arguments for court. This is also the time prosecutors may offer plea bargains. Speak with your DUI attorney before accepting any deal from the state.

Trial and Sentencing

Once both sides have had their chances to submit pretrial motions and hearings are complete, the judge will set a date for your trial. It may take months from your initial arrest before you stand before a jury. At any point before or even during the trial, you can enter into a plea deal with the prosecutor.

If you reach a plea agreement or are found guilty by the jury, next will come sentencing. North Carolina DUI penalties include:

• Jail or prison time
• Fines
• License suspension
• Probation
• Mandatory education

Your case can take anywhere from one month to over a year to conclude, so it’s important to temper your expectations.

Hire a DUI Lawyer Today

DUI cases can change your life. If you’ve been charged with a DUI in North Carolina, hire a DUI lawyer from Edwards Law, PLLC. Contact us today to fight your charges and protect your freedom.