Montgomery County Court Process
Complete guide to arraignment, court dates, plea options, and what to expect during your case in Montgomery County.
Court Information
Court Process Timeline
Arraignment
First court appearance, typically within 24-48 hours after arrest.
What Happens:
- Judge reads charges against you
- You enter initial plea (usually Not Guilty)
- Bail is set or reviewed
- Next court date is scheduled
- Public defender appointed if needed
Pre-Trial Hearings
Multiple court dates over 2-6 months where your attorney negotiates with prosecutors.
Attorney Activities:
- Review police reports and evidence
- File motions to suppress evidence
- Challenge breathalyzer/blood test results
- Negotiate plea bargains
- Discuss diversion program eligibility
Plea Bargain or Trial
Most cases (over 90%) resolve through plea bargaining, not trial.
Plea Bargain Benefits
- • Reduced charges
- • Lighter sentence
- • Certainty of outcome
- • Lower costs
Trial Risks
- • Maximum sentence if convicted
- • Higher legal fees
- • Uncertainty
- • Time consuming
Sentencing
Judge determines penalties based on the plea agreement or trial verdict. Sentences may include fines, probation, jail time, license suspension, IID, SCRAM monitoring, and/or DUI classes.
Don't Face This Alone
A attorney can make the difference between a conviction and a dismissal, between jail time and probation. They know local judges, prosecutors, and can challenge evidence that you might not even know is challengeable.
Find Montgomery County AttorneysThe Montgomery County Courts at 135 Commerce Street in Clarksville, TN, handle many DWI cases. Understanding the court procedures can significantly reduce stress and improve your preparedness. This guide provides essential information about navigating the DWI court process in Montgomery County.
Courthouse Location
The primary location for court proceedings related to DWI cases in Montgomery County is:
135 Commerce Street, Clarksville, TN 37040
Parking information is detailed below.
Do NOT Do These Things
Entering the courtroom requires adherence to specific rules of conduct. Violating these rules can result in being held in contempt of court or being asked to leave. Avoid these common mistakes:
- No Phones in Courtroom: All electronic devices, including cell phones, must be turned off or silenced before entering the courtroom. Some courtrooms may prohibit phones entirely.
- No Food/Drinks: Eating or drinking is strictly prohibited inside the courtroom.
- Dress Code Violations: Dress professionally. Avoid wearing casual clothing such as shorts, tank tops, hats, or clothing with offensive graphics. Business casual is generally acceptable.
- Speaking Out of Turn: Only speak when addressed by the judge. Do not interrupt or engage in side conversations.
- Being Late: Punctuality is crucial. Arrive early to allow time for security screening and finding your courtroom. Being late can negatively impact your case.
Security Screening
| Prohibited Items | Allowed Items/What to Expect মাধ্যমে 보안 검색을 수행할 수 없습니다. on the 19th of November.
Sources
Tennessee Penal Code
Montgomery County District Court
Tennessee Court System
24/7 Legal Support
Need a Attorney in Montgomery County?
Get connected with experienced attorneys who know Montgomery County courts and can fight for the best outcome.