TennesseeVan Buren CountyCourt Process

Van Buren County Court Process

Complete guide to arraignment, court dates, plea options, and what to expect during your case in Van Buren County.

Court Information

Court Process Timeline

1

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
2

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
3

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
4

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 Van Buren County Attorneys

Van Buren County DUI cases are primarily heard at the Justice Center in Spencer, a small, localized administration serving as a "legal island" within Tennessee's 31st Judicial District. Understanding the court procedures in this rural setting is crucial for navigating your DWI charge.

Courthouse Location

The Van Buren County Justice Center is located at:

17 Veterans Square (also cited as 121 Taft Drive), Spencer, TN 38585.

Parking is available on-site, but can be limited.

Do NOT Do These Things

Entering the Van Buren County courtroom requires respect and adherence to specific rules. Avoid these common mistakes:

  • No Phones in the Courtroom: All electronic devices, especially cell phones, must be turned off and put away before entering the courtroom.
  • No Food or Drinks: Eating and drinking are strictly prohibited inside the courtroom.
  • Dress Code Violations: Dress professionally. Avoid wearing 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 essential. Arrive early to allow time for security screening and finding your courtroom.

Security Screening

| Prohibited Items | Allowed Items / What to Expect | | :------------------------------------------ | 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* | Weapons (including pocket knives, pepper spray) | Valid ID (driver's license, passport) | |

Sources

Tennessee Penal Code

Van Buren County District Court

Tennessee Court System

Back to Tennessee DUI Guide

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