It could have started with a police officer stopping you after driving home from a night out. You might feel confused and worried, as in Missouri, a first-time DWI charge is generally considered a Class B misdemeanor. A conviction can result in fines, a suspended license and even jail time.
However, not all is lost after a DWI arrest. A mistake does not have to define your future. These are the things that you need to know after a first-time DWI charge.
What constitutes a DWI in Missouri?
A DWI is defined as operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Missouri’s legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08 percent for adults and 0.02 percent for minors. For commercial drivers, the legal limit is 0.04 percent. However, how alcohol affects BAC depends on factors like age, weight, metabolism and whether food was consumed.
If a police officer stops you, they may ask you to submit to a series of field sobriety tests, which you can politely refuse. If the police have probable cause to arrest you, they will request an official breathalyzer or urine test at the police station, which can lead to official charges.
What happens after a first-time arrest?
There are many possible outcomes. Here are some of them:
- License suspension: You may be eligible for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) if you agree to install an Ignition Interlock Device (IID), which is a breathalyzer connected to your vehicle’s ignition system.
- Criminal penalties: The maximum penalties for a first-time DWI are up to six months in jail and a $500 fine, unless there are aggravating factors.
- Additional requirements: Upon conviction, a judge will typically order participation in Missouri’s Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program (SATOP).
If you were convicted of DWI while driving a commercial vehicle, the penalties are even harsher.
Why legal support is important
A DWI does not have to jeopardize your future. With the aid of a defense attorney, you can pursue legal options such as negotiating for reduced charges, challenging the accuracy of the evidence or seeking dismissal of the charges, if warranted.