An arrest and criminal charges are just the beginning of a very serious business
A DWI or similar charge in Missouri is dealt with far more harshly than other offenses of the same level. This is because a person charged with--for example--peace disturbance--would face a single criminal charge and may end up paying a $100 fine.
With a first offense DWI, the criminal case--which can result in a large fine and a possible jail sentence--is only the tip of the iceberg.
In addition, the driver faces:
- the loss of a driver's license for the accumulation of points
- an administrative hearing and loss of license for driving with an illegal blood alcohol level
- revocation of a driver's license for one year if the driver refused to take a breath test; and
- the additional costs of legal representation and court costs in the administrative matters, the time and cost of an alcohol treatment program, possible ignition interlock devices, re-instatement fees and increased costs of auto insurance.
These consequences multiply with each repeat offense, sometimes making it difficult or impossible to retain employment.
If you are charged with a DWI-related offense you need to speak with an experienced criminal lawyer. If you do nothing, your operator's license will almost certainly be suspended or revoked long before you go to court. This occurs automatically within 15 days of your arrest, so act quickly and make the right call. Call us at 573-415-0240, and we will be happy to discuss your case and answer your questions. There is no charge for an initial consultation.
When we file our entry in a case, we do our best to obtain all the discovery in the case and make a careful review of every report, every test and every piece of evidence. The technical aspects of field sobriety testing, breathalyzer operation, maintenance and calibration must be examined for compliance with tight specifications. DWI cases can easily contain defects that can affect the final result.
Our job is to review and develop the evidence in your case to find those defects. Only then can we deal with the prosecuting attorney to obtain the most favorable resolution to your case. While it is true that most cases are resolved by agreement, you need an attorney with the toughness, experience and willingness to take your case to trial. We will do our very best for every client, to represent them diligently, keep them fully informed and to be available to answer their questions and concerns.
