Pulaski County DWI Lawyers
Seasoned Legal Counsel in Waynesville & Phelps County, MO
Facing a Missouri DWI charge can be a daunting experience. The consequences of a DWI conviction can significantly impact your life, potentially leading to the loss of driving privileges, hefty fines, or even jail time. Having the right legal team on your side is crucial; you need a firm that is knowledgeable, experienced, and committed to protecting your rights.
At Lowe Dreesen Miller, we provide DWI defense across St. Robert, Fort Leonard Wood, Rolla, St. James, and throughout Pulaski and Phelps counties. With over 30 years of experience, our attorneys are well-versed in the nuances of Missouri's DWI laws, which are continually evolving. Our commitment is to provide a tailored defense strategy to achieve the best possible outcome.
Book a free initial consultation with a Pulaski County DWI attorney by contacting us online or at (573) 888-8888. Available 24/7.
What Constitutes DWI in Missouri?
Under Missouri law, you can be charged with DWI if you operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or if you are deemed to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs, regardless of BAC.
Commercial drivers are held to a stricter standard of 0.04%, and drivers under 21 can be charged with a BAC as low as 0.02%.
In Missouri, an excessive blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is defined as 0.15% or higher. It can lead to enhanced penalties, even for a first-time offender.
Missouri has consolidated “DUI” and “DWI.” Any charges related to these terms fall under the same legal framework.
Potential Penalties for DWI in Missouri
Penalties for DWI convictions in Missouri vary based on prior offenses:
- First offense (Class B misdemeanor): Up to six months in jail, fines up to $1,000, and a 30-day license suspension followed by 60 days of restricted driving.
- Second offense (Class A misdemeanor): Up to one year in jail, fines up to $2,000, and a one-year license revocation.
- Third offense (Class D felony): Up to four years in prison, fines up to $10,000, and a 10-year license denial.
Points are added to your driving record for DWI convictions. Additional consequences may include mandatory ignition interlock devices, substance abuse education programs, and increased insurance premiums. Depending on the facts of the case, DWI charges may be reduced to a lesser charge through a plea deal.
Administrative License Suspension & Hearings
You have only 15 days from the date of arrest to request a hearing with the Missouri Department of Revenue to contest your license suspension. Our attorneys can represent you in these hearings to fight for your driving privileges.
Our FAQ
Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 573-888-8888 today!
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Possibly. A first-time DWI may be eligible for expungement 10 years after the conviction, provided no subsequent alcohol-related offenses have occurred. Certain conditions must be met, and expungement is unavailable for felony DWIs.
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An administrative hearing is separate from the criminal case and determines whether your license will be suspended. Having an attorney represent you during this hearing is highly recommended, as it can impact your driving privileges and be a strategic part of your overall defense.
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Depending on your situation and whether it's a first offense, you may be eligible for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) or a Limited Driving Privilege (LDP). These "hardship licenses" allow you to drive for specific purposes like work, school, or medical appointments, often requiring the installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) and proof of SR-22 insurance. Our attorneys can help you understand your eligibility and navigate the process to seek these restricted privileges.
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If you refuse to submit to such a test, your Missouri driving privilege will be automatically revoked for one year, regardless of whether you are convicted of the DWI charge. This is separate from any criminal penalties. You generally have a limited time (30 days from notice) to appeal this administrative revocation.
Defense Strategies for Missouri DWI Charges
Our firm employs defense strategies tailored to the specifics of your case, including the following.
- Challenging the traffic stop: Examining whether the officer had probable cause to make the stop.
- Questioning field sobriety tests: Assessing the administration and accuracy of sobriety tests.
- Disputing chemical test results: Investigating the calibration and maintenance of breathalyzer equipment.
- Exploring medical conditions: Identifying health issues that may have affected test results.
We aim to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case by scrutinizing every aspect of your arrest. We are committed to minimizing the impact of DWI charges, including safeguarding driving privileges, exploring options for license reinstatement, and obtaining hardship licenses where applicable.
Contact Lowe Dreesen Miller at (573) 888-8888 today for a free case review with a Pulaski County DWI attorney.
What Sets Us Apart
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Decades of Real-World ExperienceWith over 30 years of legal service and more than 85 years of combined military experience, we bring steady, proven judgment to every case.
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Built on Hard Work
We believe in earning trust through relentless preparation, clear communication, and a strong work ethic on every case.
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Fair Pricing and Free Consultations
We offer clear, reasonable fees and free initial consultations so you can compare with confidence.
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Ready for Trial
Unlike many firms, we’re always prepared to take your case to court if that’s what justice requires.
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We’re committed to achieving fair and just resolutions, protecting your rights and interests every step of the way.
