If you’re arrested for a DUI in Virginia, one of the first questions you may ask is: “How fast can I get out?”
Generally, in most first-time DUI cases, individuals are released on some form of bond after spending time in a holding cell to lower their blood alcohol content (BAC). Typically, release occurs once law enforcement determines the individual no longer poses a risk to themselves or others.
However, certain extenuating circumstances can lead a magistrate to hold you without bond, even on a first offense. These situations are rare, but they can happen if:
- There are additional charges (like hit & run, eluding police, or assault on an officer).
- Your BAC is extremely high.
- You have a lengthy criminal history or prior failures to appear in court.
Second or Subsequent DUI Offenses: More Complicated
If this isn’t your first DUI, the situation gets more serious. Second or third offenses, especially if they occur close together in time, dramatically increase the chances of being held without bond. If other factors like prior probation violations or related felony charges are introduced, it becomes far more likely you will remain in jail until a judge decides otherwise.
How Fast Can You Get a Bond Hearing?
This is where local rules really matter. For example, in Norfolk General District Court, where our attorneys handle bond hearings routinely, the court requires 48 hours’ notice to the Commonwealth’s Attorney for any bond hearing. That means:
- Your attorney has to file the request.
- The prosecutor has to be notified.
- The court has to have an available date and time slot.
Since multiple parties have to be appropriately notified, it can take a few days to coordinate a bond hearing.
Why the Right Attorney Makes All the Difference
At Driving Defense Law, we handle DUI-related bond hearings across Hampton Roads on a routine basis. We know how each court handles bond requests, who to contact, and how to move the process forward as quickly as possible. If you or someone you know is being held after a DUI arrest, call our team immediately. We’ll fight to secure the fastest possible release and start building your defense from day one.
