A DWI Charge Is Not an Automatic DWI Conviction
You could lose your driver's license after an arrest for a DWI and before anything is resolved in the criminal case. Many clients overlook or are not aware of the administrative hearing that determines your fate when it comes to driving legally.
At the Weber Law Firm, L.C., in St. Peters, we help our clients with both aspects of a DWI arrest and fight for the best resolution to both the criminal and administrative proceedings.
Too much is at stake for you to plead guilty immediately. Contact an attorney who will protect your rights and interests at 636-487-4139 or toll free at 888-312-6234.
Exploring All Factors in Your DWI Case
While you may see an administrative hearing as burdensome in addition to dealing with the court system, we see it as an opportunity to secure the information we will need to fight the criminal charges against you. At the Weber Law Firm, L.C., we are attentive to all the details in challenging the police report and identifying if your rights were violated.
There are many factors that led up to your DWI arrest and each one needs to be explored:
- Did the officer have reasonable suspicion to pull you over for drinking, or was there another reason?
- Did the officer use an objective standard as the basis for your arrest?
- Was that officer properly trained to perform a field sobriety test?
- Did the officer relay the instructions and score the test correctly?
- Was the Breathalyzer machine used properly and recently calibrated?
What Are the Penalties for DUI in Missouri?
Judges have discretion when sentencing people convicted for drunk driving. However, in general, the following penalties apply:
- First DUI: a fine of up to $500; a 30-day suspension of your driver's license followed by a 60-day restriction allowing driving to and from school, work, or alcohol counseling; a potential jail sentence of up to six months in jail; you may be required to install an ignition interlock device; eight points will be assessed against your license.
- Second DUI: a fine up to $1,000; a five-year suspension of your driver's license if you were convicted for DUI within the last five years; up to one year in jail; 12 points will be assessed against your license; you can apply for a hardship license after two years of your five-year suspension; you must install an ignition interlock device if granted a hardship license.
- Third DUI: a fine up to $5,000; a 10-year revocation of your driver's license; a prison term of up to five years; no hardship license allowed.
- Four or more DUIs: A fourth or fifth DUI conviction involves substantial prison time, a $5,000 fine, and the permanent loss of your driver's license.
Penalties may increase if a minor was in your car at the time of your arrest or if your blood alcohol content (BAC) was above a certain level.
We Explore All Options and Fight for Your Rights
The last thing you need is an attorney who immediately takes the first deal offered by prosecutors, particularly if you are facing a felony DWI conviction. Matt Weber, the founder of our firm, will work your case and secure whatever value he can. If you have an alcohol or drug problem, getting the help you need allows us to present you in a better light.
Contact Us
For more information, or to schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced criminal defense lawyer regarding a charge for drunk driving, please contact us.
