The last procedural hearing prior to trial in the DUI process at Seattle Municipal Court is called the readiness hearing. Quite simply, it is a hearing to determine if the parties are prepared to go to trial and if not, what should happen next. Readiness hearing from jurisdiction to jurisdiction do not differ in any significant way, though they are often called different things.

In Seattle, if the parties are ready to proceed with the DUI trial, the previously set trial date, usually scheduled about 5-12 days after the readiness hearing is merely confirmed. The parties would then return to court at the appointed time for trial.

If the parties are not ready to proceed, it is possible that the trial date may be continued. Possible reasons for a continuance at this juncture are conflicts with either attorney’s trial schedule, to explore newly discovered evidence, to hear of motions that have been previously scheduled but for some reason unheard, or to continue with possible plea bargain negotiations. It is also possible that the court may not grant a continuance and that the trial will proceed as scheduled.

Another common occurrence is that a DUI charge will be resolved at this stage. It is not uncommon for the City prosecutor to agree to a reduction of the DUI charge at this stage in lieu of proceeding to trial. It is important to note however that it is also not uncommon for the City to wish to proceed to trial at this juncture. Never assume that merely setting the case for trial will automatically result in the reduction. If your DUI charge is set for trial in Seattle Municipal Court, it is imperative that you plan and prepare for a DUI trial.