STL DUI Defense Attorney

Last updated on March 24, 2025

If you have been cited for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you may be worried about keeping your driver’s license and avoiding jail time. These are natural concerns at the time of the arrest, but a more important goal should be preventing a criminal record.

To get your driver’s license back while your criminal case is pending, request a hearing before the Missouri or Illinois Department of Transportation (MoDOT or IDOT) as soon as possible. Our defense attorneys can help you get a court date on the calendar right away.

You may have made a terrible decision to consume alcoholic drinks before getting behind the wheel, resulting in impaired driving charges. It is also possible that your arrest was unjustified. Whatever your blood alcohol content was, at KesslerWilliams, we do not believe your temporary loss of judgment should mean months in jail for you or worse. We are aggressive, dedicated criminal defense attorneys. We work hard to give our clients chances to prevent having a criminal record whenever possible.

First-Time DUI Offenders: What To Expect

If you’re facing a DUI charge for the first time, you may feel overwhelmed. As attorneys who have helped many first-time offenders, we understand your concerns. Potential consequences can include license suspension, fines and even jail time. However, with proper legal representation, you may be able to minimize these impacts. Our lawyers work diligently to explore all options, such as diversion programs or plea bargains, that could help preserve your driving privileges and avoid a criminal record.

CDL Holders Face Severe Penalties For A DUI

Commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders face particularly harsh consequences for DUI charges. A conviction could mean losing not just your license but your livelihood. Our firm has extensive experience defending CDL holders against DUI charges. We understand the nuances of these cases and the critical importance of preserving your commercial driving privileges. Our attorneys fight tirelessly to protect your career and future.

Field Sobriety Tests Are Not Foolproof

While horizontal gaze nystagmus (HGN) and standing tests are often used by law enforcement, they’re not infallible. Even when administered correctly, these tests are only about 87% reliable. Our attorneys scrutinize every aspect of your field sobriety test, including:

• Whether the officer was properly trained
• If environmental factors affected the test results
• If the tests were administered according to standardized procedures

We cross-examine the arresting officer meticulously, challenging the reliability of these tests and working to cast doubt on the prosecution’s case.

The Impact Of A DUI Conviction

A DUI conviction extends beyond immediate penalties like fines and potential jail time. Insurance premiums typically increase dramatically after a DUI conviction, often doubling or tripling for at least three to five years. These increased rates can cost you thousands of dollars over time.

Employment opportunities may become limited with a DUI on your record. Many employers conduct background checks and may be hesitant to hire individuals with criminal convictions, especially for positions involving driving. Professional licenses in fields such as health care, education and law may also be jeopardized by a DUI conviction.

Travel restrictions represent another significant consequence, as many countries, including Canada, Mexico and Australia may deny entry to individuals with DUI convictions. These restrictions can complicate personal travel plans and career opportunities requiring international travel.

DUI And Drug-Impaired Driving

While alcohol-related DUIs receive significant attention, drug-impaired charges present unique challenges. Missouri laws prohibit driving while under the influence of drugs that impair the ability to operate a vehicle safely, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs and illegal substances.

Unlike alcohol, which can be measured with standardized tests, determining drug impairment often relies on:

• Blood tests that detect the presence of substances but not necessarily impairment
• Drug recognition experts (DREs) who perform specialized evaluations
• Field sobriety tests that may not accurately indicate drug impairment
• Officer observations that can be subjective

Legal prescription medications can lead to DUI charges if they impair your driving ability, even when taken as prescribed. Marijuana-related DUI cases have become increasingly complex as states modify their cannabis laws. The prosecution must prove impairment rather than just the presence of THC in your system.

DUI Checkpoints And Your Rights

DUI checkpoints remain a common enforcement tactic in Missouri. While these checkpoints are legal, it is important to remember you have constitutional rights during these encounters.

When approaching a checkpoint, you should be aware that:

• Police must follow specific guidelines for conducting checkpoints
• Checkpoints must be publicly announced in advance
• Officers must have a legitimate reason to extend the stop beyond a brief interaction
• You have the right to remain silent beyond providing basic information
• You can refuse field sobriety tests, though this may lead to consequences

Law enforcement must establish reasonable suspicion of impairment before requiring further testing. Signs they look for include the odor of alcohol, slurred speech, bloodshot eyes or open containers in the vehicle.

Questions And Answers About Your Alcohol Or Drug-Related Traffic Offense

Bring your concerns, such as the following, to our attention. We are ready to create and implement defense strategies with your future in mind.

What happens if I get charged with DUI/DWI in St. Louis?

Your driver’s license may be suspended, but often, you may be able to keep it until your criminal case is finished. To preserve your driving privileges and defend you from criminal charges, your attorney will need to request a hearing with MoDOT or IDOT, and begin preparing arguments in your defense for the criminal court.

What are the penalties for DWI in Missouri?

The penalties that you may receive after a conviction for first, second or third (or subsequent) offenses are as follows:

• Jail time: Up to six months in jail, up to one year or up to four years
• Fines: Up to $1,000, $2,000 or $10,000
• Driver’s license: Up to a 30-day suspension followed by a 60-day restricted license; up to a one-year revocation or up to a 10-year revocation

Those are general descriptions only. Individual outcomes may vary considerably. Offenders who complete the requirements for probation, including getting alcohol abuse treatment, may have considerably more favorable consequences. Repeat offenders or drunk drivers who were transporting children may face more severe penalties.

How will a St. Louis DWI lawyer defend me against my charge?

Your attorney may defend you with evidence that:

• A police officer stopped you without probable cause.
• No official informed you of your right to contact a lawyer.
• Chemical or field sobriety tests were not valid or reliable.
• A previous conviction on your record was unjustified.

A thorough investigation is the first step toward renewed hope after a DUI/DWI arrest.

DUI Charges Require Urgent Action

Time is of the essence in DUI cases. In Missouri, you have only 15 days from the date of your arrest to request a hearing to contest your license suspension. Failing to act quickly could result in automatic suspension, potentially jeopardizing your job and daily life. Don’t wait to seek legal help. Contact our firm immediately after a DUI charge to ensure we can take swift action to protect your rights and driving privileges.

At KesslerWilliams, we’re committed to providing robust defense strategies for those facing DUI charges. Whether you’re a first-time offender, a CDL holder or facing any other DUI-related situation, our experienced attorneys are here to guide you through the legal process and work toward a positive outcome.

You Can Get Your License Back After A DUI

Losing your driver’s license can affect how you get around every day, and getting your driver’s license back requires careful attention and several steps. Knowing what you need to do can help you get your driving privileges back quickly. This process involves:

• Complete court requirements: Follow the rules set by the Missouri Department of Revenue or the court. This might mean serving a suspension period, finishing a driving improvement program or meeting any court-ordered requirements.
• Pay the fees: You need to pay certain fees to get your license back. These fees depend on what you did wrong, and you must pay them in full.
• Show proof of insurance: You might need to file an SR-22 form, which shows you have the right insurance coverage.
• Submit required documents: Make sure you turn in all required documents, such as proof of identity, insurance and fee payments, to the Department of Revenue.

The process can be confusing and stressful, especially if you are not familiar with legal procedures. While you can do it on your own, a lawyer who knows Missouri traffic laws can guide you through the process, making sure you understand what you need to do. This guidance can help you avoid mistakes that might delay the restoration of your license, address the unique challenges you may face during the process and offer peace of mind.

Get The Personalized Guidance You Need After A DUI

Call 314-720-5476 or email us to schedule an initial consultation about your drunk driving charges and the most effective defenses in your case.