Missouri DWI Case Law Updates
Getting pulled over for a DWI (or DUI) can happen at any moment when you are on the road. Perhaps a police officer caught you speeding or running a stop sign; that officer can pull you over, and if they suspect you of being drunk or high, they can begin to administer sobriety tests to you. If the police officer comes to the conclusion that you are drunk or high, they can arrest you for a DWI. It is important to understand your rights in these moments and to speak to a criminal attorney when getting arrested.
With new marijuana laws passing in Missouri, so do new laws surrounding DUI/DWI. If you get caught up in a DWI controversy in Missouri, contact me at Guilfoil Law Group and set up a free consultation. I defend those facing DUI/DWI charges in the entire state of Missouri including Kansas City, Clay County, Platte County, and Jackson County.
A Breakdown of DWI Charges in Missouri
As is customary, the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Missouri is 0.08%. If you test at a high percentage than that, you can be arrested for a DWI. A first-time DWI is a class B misdemeanor and a conviction can result in you serving up to six months in jail and paying a $1,000 fine. Along with that, your driver’s license can be suspended for 30 days; then, it can become a restricted license for 60 days.
As your DUI attorney, I will utilize my decades of knowledge and trial experience to help you seek the best outcome possible for your case. Many people don’t think they need a criminal attorney at their side, but that is not true. I am here to help you. Reach out to me in Kansas City, Missouri, and let’s discuss your case.
Marijuana Laws in Missouri
In November 2022, the state of Missouri legalized the use of recreational marijuana. This new legislature brings into question the legality of driving while under the influence of marijuana.
Drug DUIs are more difficult to objectively determine since there is no standard on limits like BAC. With marijuana being legal in Missouri now, that does not mean there is a free pass to drive high. After smoking or consuming marijuana in any capacity, it’s in your best interest to abstain from operating a motor vehicle until sufficient time has passed since ingesting the drug.
If you get arrested for driving while high, contact me at Guilfoil Law Group in Kansas City, Missouri immediately. I provide my services as a DUI attorney to the entire state of Missouri including Clay County, Platte County, and Jackson County.
Multiple DWI Convictions
The more DWI convictions you have, the more severe the penalties become. Being convicted of a second DWI in Missouri can result in one year in jail and fines up to $2,000. You can also lose your driver’s license for up to one year (five years if this offense falls within a five-year timeframe following the first conviction). Any subsequent convictions can result in up to four years in jail and a $10,000 fine. You could also lose your license for 10 years. With consequences such as these, you can see why it is important to have a criminal attorney at your side after a DWI arrest.
What Sets Me Apart From Other Lawyers?
I have spent my entire legal career as a criminal attorney emphasizing DWI cases. I published the chapter for Missouri’s Bar Associations reference book titled “Standardized Field Sobriety Testing and Cross-Examination of the Arresting Officer.” This chapter gives insight into how to defend a client accused of a DWI and how to handle the arresting officers; DUI attorneys all over Missouri utilize this material. I am truly dedicated to giving you the best service possible which is why I spend 20 hours a month researching recent cases, legal treatises, technical literature, and articles on the subject of DWIs. Want to learn how I can help you? Call me today.
Contact a Knowledgeable DUI Attorney
It can be difficult to navigate DWI cases by yourself, especially if you do not know or understand your rights or the law. I am here to give you the legal representation that you deserve. Contact me today at Guilfoil Law Group and set up a free consultation for your DWI case. I provide services to people across Missouri, including Kansas City, Clay County, Platte County, and Jackson County.