First Time DUI Defense Attorney in St. Charles County and St. Louis
What should I do after a DUI arrest in Missouri?
Quick Answer:
After a DUI arrest in Missouri, you should avoid discussing your case, act quickly to protect your license, and speak with an experienced DUI defense attorney before making any decisions.
Key Steps:
- Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney
- Request copies of all charges and police reports
- Be aware of strict deadlines for license suspension hearings
- Do not miss any court appearances
- Depending on your location, you should speak with an experienced Defense attorney located in Missouri, preferably someone in your own area who knows both state and local laws.
Need An Experienced DUI Defense Attorney?
Wayne Schoeneberg is Ready to Fight for Your Freedom & Driving Privileges
For many people, their first experience with the Missouri criminal justice system begins with a DUI or DWI arrest. Unfortunately, even a first-time DUI offense can lead to serious consequences, including fines, court costs, driver’s license suspension, and even possible jail time.
If you’re in the St. Louis area and this is your first offense, we encourage you to protect your rights, reputation, and future. And one of the most important steps you can take is hiring an experienced DUI defense attorney in St. Charles County or the St. Louis area who understands how to navigate these cases.
Whether you’ve been arrested for a DUI in St. Charles, St. Louis, or the surrounding area, Wayne T. Schoeneberg P.C. is ready to fight for the most favorable outcome in your case. With more than four decades of experience, Wayne is a long-time, trusted DUI defense attorney in St. Charles County who has handled thousands of cases and guided clients through every stage of the legal process. So if this is where you are today, then take heart. I’m in your corner, and I want to help. Take it from an experienced DUI Defense Attorney in St. Louis, call me before you do anything else or say anything else.
Call (314) 708-1000 or complete our online contact form today to schedule a free case review.
First DUI Laws & Penalties in Missouri
Missouri DUI laws are strictly enforced, and even a first offense carries significant penalties. Under Missouri’s “per se” law, a driver can be charged with DUI if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, any detectable alcohol can result in charges.
Missouri also follows an implied consent law, meaning drivers agree to chemical testing when they operate a vehicle. Refusing a breath or blood test can result in additional penalties, including automatic license suspension.
Penalties for a first-time DUI in Missouri may include fines, license suspension, mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs, probation, and possible jail time. The severity increases if there are aggravating factors such as a high BAC or an accident.
A first DUI offense is typically charged as a Class B misdemeanor, which can carry up to six months in jail and fines up to $1,000. However, courts may allow probation and treatment programs instead of jail time in some cases.
If a driver’s BAC is 0.15% or higher, there may be a minimum jail sentence of 48 hours. If the BAC reaches 0.20% or higher, the minimum sentence can increase to five days.
In addition to criminal penalties, the Missouri Department of Revenue may impose a 90-day administrative license suspension. After 30 days, some drivers may qualify for restricted driving privileges with an ignition interlock device (IID).
We cannot stress it enough; if you have been arrested for a DUI anywhere locally, it is critical that you speak with a DUI defense attorney in St. Charles County or the St. Louis area as soon as possible.
Let an Experienced DUI Defense Attorney in St. Charles County Help
Don’t wait to get the legal guidance you need. A DUI conviction can have lasting consequences, but the right defense strategy can make a meaningful difference in your case.
Wayne T. Schoeneberg P.C. is prepared to investigate your arrest, evaluate the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and defend your rights in court. If you are searching for a trusted DUI defense attorney in St. Charles County or St. Louis, we are here to help.