St. Charles DWI Defense Attorneys

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) is also known as Driving Under the Influence (DUI). It can be highly nerve-racking and costly in Missouri to face DWI charges. Just one conviction could take away a huge part of your freedom, make a dent in your finances, and damage your prospects in life.

If you have been charged with DWI, don’t risk your future. It is best to hire a lawyer – one you have chosen carefully to protect your rights and liberties. Talk to us at Shea Kohl Law to see how our competent lawyers can be of service to you.

Alcohol Limit In Missouri

DWI in Missouri means driving with a certain level of blood alcohol concentration (BAC):

• For drivers 21 years old or older – BAC of 0.08 or higher
• For drivers younger than 21 – BAC of 0.02 or higher
• For commercial drivers – BAC of 0.04 or higher (special limit)

DWI Penalties In Missouri

The penalties for a drunk-driving conviction in Missouri depend on how many times you have been convicted. The following is an overview of the potential penalties as set by the law.

• First conviction
  • Fines of up to $500
  • Jail time of up to six months
  • 30-day driver’s license suspension
• Second conviction
  • Fines of up to $1,000
  • Jail time of up to 12 months/one year
  • One-year driver’s license revocation
  • Requirement to install an ignition interlock device for license reinstatement
• Third conviction
  • Fines of up to $5,000
  • Jail time of up to four years
  • Ten-year driver’s license revocation
  • Requirement to install an ignition interlock device for license reinstatement
• Fourth conviction
  • Fines of up to $5,000
  • Jail time of up to seven years
  • Ten-year driver’s license revocation
  • Requirement to install an ignition interlock device for license reinstatement
• Fifth conviction
  • Fines of up to $5,000
  • Jail time from 5 to 15 years
  • Ten-year driver’s license revocation
  • Requirement to install an ignition interlock device for license reinstatement.

Additional penalties may apply if someone was injured or killed in an accident where you stand accused of drunk-driving. But even if you did not harm anyone, you could still be facing penalties that could affect your whole life. At Shea Kohl Law, we try to minimize these penalties and we have successfully done so in numerous cases.

How We Can Defend You In A DWI Case

These are only some of the DWI defenses that we may be able to use in your case:

• Improper stop. If the law enforcement officer who pulled you over did not have probable cause to do so, any evidence gathered afterwards may be inadmissible.
• Improper Field Sobriety Test. If the police officer failed to follow protocol when administering your field test, the test may be considered invalid.
• Test result challenges. Whether it’s a breathalyzer, urine test, or blood test, there are all sorts of ways that an alcohol test could be inaccurate.
• No Miranda warning. If the arresting officer did not properly give you the Miranda warning (“You have the right to remain silent…”), the arrest may be deemed invalid.
• Testimony challenges. The police officer will provide his or her own observations as testimony against you, and these observations can be refuted in various ways.
• Involuntary intoxication. You could have ingested too much alcohol without being aware of it – for example, if someone spiked your drink at a party.
• Medical condition. There are health conditions that can create physical qualities similar to drunkenness, such as a diabetes side effect that produces an ‘alcohol smell.’
• Being “under duress” means you were forced to do something – for instance, someone forced you to drive by threatening you with violence.

An effective DWI defense requires in-depth knowledge of the law, extensive research, creative strategizing, and assertive reasoning in court. Only an experienced attorney, backed by a diligent law firm, can provide these for you. Choose a DWI defense attorney who has years of hands-on experience and a proven track record in helping clients like you.

Why You Should Choose Shea Kohl Law

In St. Charles, MO and surrounding areas, Shea Kohl Law has been trusted since 1984 for our effective legal services. Here’s what you can expect from us:

• Advantageous trial experience – a result of our attorneys’ combined 90+ years of service
• Straightforward assessment of your case, and the corresponding practical solutions
• Skilled, resourceful strategies appropriate for your specific situation
• Clear, consistent communication throughout your case.

We have achieved positive results for our clients, including one of the Top Defense Verdicts in Missouri in 2006. Our attorneys are highly rated in the legal profession, such as by the Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review system, as well as by our past clients who now continue to enjoy their rights and freedom.

Contact Us

Your consultation with us is free and confidential. Call Shea Kohl Law today at (636) 946-9999.