St. Peters DWI Lawyer
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 the criminal and administrative aspects of a DWI arrest, fighting for the best resolutions in each proceeding.
Too much is at stake for you to plead guilty immediately. If you have been arrested for DWI, call a skilled St. Peters DWI defense attorney who will protect your rights and interests at 636-487-4139. You can also contact the Weber Law Firm, L.C., online.
Exploring All Possible Defenses in Your DWI Case
While you may see an administrative hearing as a burdensome addition to dealing with the court system, we see it as an opportunity to get the information we will need to fight the criminal charges against you. Our founding St. Charles County DWI lawyer, Matt Weber, is attentive to all the details in challenging the police report and identifying if your rights were violated.
You do not have to just plead guilty. There are a variety of possible defenses that can keep your record clean and keep you out of jail:
- 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 in five years: a fine up to $1,000; a five-year suspension of your driver’s license; up to one year in jail; 12 points will be assessed against your license; you must install an ignition interlock device if granted a hardship license.
If you are convicted of a third or subsequent DUI within 10 years, that is classified as felony DUI, and comes with greatly increased penalties. Similarly, 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. Attorney Matt Weber 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 a St. Charles DUI Attorney for a Free Consultation
Do not hesitate to get help if you face drunk driving charges. To schedule a free initial consultation with an experienced criminal defense lawyer regarding a charge of DWI/DUI, call 636-487-4139. You can also contact our St. Peters law firm online.