A DUI conviction is a life-changing event. If you are found guilty of driving under the influence, the consequences range from staggering fines to jail time. Additionally, you may lose your driving privileges, and depending on your employer, your job may be impacted. It's essential to seek help from a skilled defense attorney. The attorneys at St. Louis Traffic Ticket Fix LLC are dedicated to securing the best possible result on your behalf.
Protecting Your Rights and Freedom
Our law firm provides the representation you need to mount a strong defense. Depending on the facts of your case, we may discover grounds to have the prosecution reduce or even drop the charges. Every case is different, but with our help, you improve your chances of securing a more favorable outcome.
Missouri DUI Penalties
As with most states, defendants confronted with a DUI allegation face severe criminal penalties in Missouri. Under Missouri law, there is no real difference between DUI (driving under the influence) and DWI (driving while intoxicated). While some states make them separate crimes with different standards of proof, Missouri law generally refers to related offenses collectively as driving while intoxicated (DWI).
DUIs Come With Serious Criminal Charges
A driver is considered intoxicated if they:
- Are under the influence of any combination of alcohol, drugs, or controlled substances.
- Have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.04% or more for commercial drivers and 0.08% or more for all other drivers.
The attorneys at St. Louis Traffic Ticket Fix have extensive experience representing clients facing a variety of allegations, including:
A First-Time Offense
Under Missouri law, driving under the influence, whether it involves drugs or alcohol, is usually classified as a Class B misdemeanor. A first offense is punishable by license suspensions, points on your driving record, fines, possible jail time, and other serious consequences. Charges may be increased should certain aggravating circumstances be involved.
Multiple Offenses
A second conviction subjects you to a Class A misdemeanor and elevated criminal charges. Penalties frequently include lengthy license suspensions or revocations, fines, and additional points added to your driving record. In addition, anywhere from two days to up to one year in jail is possible. The penalties for multiple offenses will increase depending on the severity of the offense.
Aggressive DUI Representation
At our law firm, we familiarize ourselves with every aspect of your case. We’ll leave no stone unturned to discover any advantage on your behalf. The law lays out specific grounds for how arresting officers must conduct the proceedings before, during, and after an arrest. As your attorney, we'll look for technicalities and discrepancies such as:
- Whether or Not the Officer Had Reasonable Suspicion
- Whether or Not the Officer Followed Procedure
- What the Road Conditions Were
- How Field Sobriety Tests Were Conducted
- When the Breathalyzer Was Last Calibrated
Remember, time is of the essence in putting together a strong DUI defense. Schedule your consultation as soon as you can following your arrest. Our law firm is on your side.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What happens if I’m charged with a DUI in Missouri?
A DUI (or DWI) charge in Missouri can lead to fines, license suspension, points on your driving record, and even jail time—especially if it's not your first offense. Immediate legal representation is critical.
2. Is there a difference between DUI and DWI in Missouri?
No. In Missouri, DUI and DWI are treated the same under the law and refer to operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances.
3. What is the legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Missouri?
For most drivers, the limit is 0.08%. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and any detectable alcohol may be penalized for drivers under 21.
4. What are the penalties for a first-time DUI offense?
A first offense is a Class B misdemeanor, which may result in:
License suspension
Points on your record
Fines
Possible jail time Penalties may increase based on your BAC level or if aggravating circumstances are present.
5. What if this isn’t my first DUI?
A second DUI is a Class A misdemeanor with steeper penalties—such as longer license suspension, larger fines, more points, and possible jail time up to one year.
6. Will I lose my license after a DUI arrest?
Possibly. Your license may be automatically suspended after a DUI arrest, especially if you refused a breath test or failed one. You may be eligible for a limited driving privilege or challenge the suspension through a hearing.
7. Can a DUI charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes. With the help of a skilled attorney, DUI charges can sometimes be reduced or dismissed if issues are found with the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, or breathalyzer results.
8. What kinds of defenses can be used in a DUI case?
Common DUI defenses include:
Lack of probable cause for the stop
Improper field sobriety test administration
Faulty breathalyzer calibration
Medical conditions mistaken for impairment
9. Should I plead guilty to a DUI to “get it over with”?
No. Pleading guilty without legal counsel could result in unnecessary penalties and long-term consequences. Always speak with a DUI defense attorney to evaluate your options first.
10. How can St. Louis Traffic Ticket Fix help with my DUI case?
We offer aggressive, detail-oriented representation. From evaluating police procedure to challenging evidence, we work to minimize or eliminate charges and protect your freedom and driving record.