There are some important things to understand about DWI law (or DUI law) in Missouri.
A DWI/DUI charge triggers two separate actions:
1. A criminal charge
A criminal charge means that you have been accused of committing a crime and are facing some sort of punishment (i.e. fines, probation, jail time, etc.). You have the right to have a trial and the right to have an attorney. You do not however, have the right to a DWI attorney experienced in DWI laws.
2. An administrative action against your license
An administrative action relates solely to what is going to happen to your driver’s license. Since an administrative action does not involve jail time, you do not have a right to an attorney (meaning you have to hire one on your own) or a right to a trial by jury.
If your blood alcohol content was over the legal limit (or you refused a breathalyzer test) a suspension or revocation of your driving privilege is automatic unless the suspension is fought and won. This is true even if the criminal charge was reduced to a lesser charge or otherwise disposed of.
You have 15 days from the date of the Notice of Suspension or Revocation to request an administrative hearing. If you do not request a hearing, a suspension or revocation will begin on the 15th day after your arrest, and it is final. This is why it is important that you hire an experienced DWI attorney as soon as possible.
A DWI/DUI Conviction has consequences:
Criminally
A criminal conviction for driving while intoxicated can result in anything from probation to up to 15 years in prison depending on the amount of prior DWI/DUI’s that you have. The harsh penalties in the DUI laws are why you need an experienced DUI lawyer.
Administratively
Depending on the amount of prior DWI or DUI’s that you have, a conviction can result in as little as a 30 day driver's license suspension to a much as a 10 year driver's license denial. If you have a commercial drivers license there can also be serious ramifications that could effect your ability to drive a commercial vehicle and you should contact a DUI attorney immediately.
There is some good news….
If you have been charged with a DUI, attorney Justin Summary can help. Justin Summary has represented hundreds of clients all over the St. Louis area who were in need of a good DUI attorney and he has a thorough knowledge of the DWI laws and the complexities of DUI defense. There are hundreds of ways to fight a DWI charge but none will work to your advantage if you choose to hire some other DUI lawyer who is more interested in moving your case than winning it. Put some knowledge and experience in your corner and contact Attorney Justin Summary today to find out about our flexible and affordable payment options and to receive your free consultation.