DWI & DUI Attorney in St. Louis, Missouri

For drivers in Missouri, the line between a good night and a costly mistake can change in the blink of an eye. With strict laws and unforgiving penalties, a single decision under the influence can alter the course of your life.  

Fortunately, our legal team at Eisenhauer Law has the experience, knowledge, and resources to fight for your rights after being charged with a DWI/DUI. We understand the consequences that follow these serious charges, which is why we dedicate our time and knowledge to helping you.  

Our firm proudly serves clients in St. Louis County, St. Charles County, and Jefferson County, Missouri. Schedule a meeting today to get the help you need.  

DWI & DUI Laws in Missouri 

Firstly, it's important to understand Missouri's approach to intoxicated driving. Both DUI (a broader term covering various substances) and DWI (typically affiliated with alcohol) fall under the broader category of Impaired Driving. 

Impaired driving happens when the operation of a vehicle is affected by alcohol or other drugs. In Missouri, the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.08% for drivers 21 and older. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%. There's a 'Zero Tolerance' policy for drivers under the age of 21, for whom any detectable amount of alcohol can result in a DUI charge. 

In Missouri, DUI and DWI are used interchangeably. Both terms cover the act of operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. However, law enforcement and the legal system recognize gradations in the severity of offenses, primarily based on previous offenses and BAC levels.  

Penalties and Punishments 

For a first conviction, the penalties can include up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and license suspension. The average cost of a DUI in Missouri, including legal fees, treatments, and increased insurance rates, hovers around the $10,000 mark.

Each subsequent offense escalates the punishments incrementally, with a third DWI considered a Class E felony, punishable by jail time and significant fines.

Other penalties include:  

• Repeat Offenses: The 'lookback' period in Missouri is five years. If you receive a second conviction within five years of the first, the penalties are enhanced. These may include an extended license suspension, mandatory use of an ignition interlock device (IID), and an alcohol education or treatment program. 

• License Suspensions: A crucial mechanism in the Missouri legal arsenal against DWI is the suspension or revocation of driving privileges. The period for which your license is suspended or revoked depends on your offense number and the specifics of your case. For many Missourians, losing the ability to drive can have catastrophic professional and personal consequences. 

• Ignition Interlock Device (IID): An IID is a breathalyzer wired into your vehicle's ignition system. To start the car, you must blow into the device and receive a clean BAC reading. It's an effective tool to prevent drunk driving, but it can also be a visible, daily reminder of past mistakes and a significant financial burden. 

• Your Record and Insurance: A DWI conviction significantly impacts your driving record and can lead to skyrocketing insurance premiums. The long-term financial implications are so severe that a first-time DWI offender usually spends a substantial amount more on insurance premiums than on their actual fine. 

Thankfully, the road back isn't entirely one-way. By taking certain proactive steps, such as enrolling in driver's education classes and seeking legal assistance from Eisenhauer Law, you can potentially lessen the blow on your record and insurance. 

Possible Defenses for DWI & DUI Charges 

Every case is unique, and the variability of human behavior and law enforcement practices leaves room for a robust defense. Possibilities may include challenging the BAC test reliability, contesting the traffic stop's legality, and questioning the administration of field sobriety tests. However, mounting a successful defense requires a strategic approach, thorough case investigation, and often expert testimony. 

For defendants in Missouri DWI cases, preparation and attention to detail can be game-changers. Understanding applicable state laws, gathering evidence, and enlisting the assistance of a criminal defense attorney are crucial steps in mounting an effective defense. 

The Role of Legal Counsel 

Missouri's DWI laws are complex and continuously evolving. Entrusting your case to a seasoned DWI attorney can provide clarity and a powerful ally in navigating the legal intricacies. 

How an Attorney Can Influence the Outcome 

An astute attorney can gather evidence, interface with the prosecution, and, when beneficial, negotiate a plea. The nuances of Missouri DWI law call for specialized knowledge, and an attorney can identify aspects of your case that present favorable opportunities for mitigation or acquittal. 

Choosing the Right Legal Professional 

Selecting the correct representation might be one of the most important decisions you make in the DWI process. Look for attorneys experienced in Missouri's DWI laws, with a proven track record and a style of representation that aligns with your case and personal values.