St. Charles DWI Defense Lawyer
Defending Clients in DWI Cases in St. Charles, MO
If you’ve been arrested for Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) in St. Charles, MO, the consequences can be serious and long-lasting. From steep fines and license suspension to possible jail time, a DWI conviction can impact your finances, freedom, and future. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, our experienced St. Charles DWI defense attorneys are here to help you fight the charges, protect your rights, and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.
Call (314) 334-3807 or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free, confidential consultation.
What is Considered a DWI?
In Missouri, a DWI means operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. According to state law, a driver can be charged with DWI if:
- Their Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher (for drivers 21 and over).
- Their BAC is 0.04% or higher if operating a commercial vehicle.
- They are under 21 years old and have a BAC of 0.02% or more.
- They are impaired by drugs or alcohol, even if their BAC is below the legal limit.
It’s important to note that you can still be arrested and charged with DWI even if you don’t “feel drunk.” Law enforcement officers often rely on field sobriety tests, breath tests, and their observations of your behavior to support a DWI arrest.
Missouri DWI Charges & Penalties
Missouri imposes strict penalties for DWI offenses. The severity of the consequences depends on the number of prior offenses and the circumstances of the arrest.
First Offense DWI
Class B Misdemeanor, punishable by:
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Up to $1,000 fine
- 90-day driver’s license suspension
- Possible alcohol education or treatment programs
Second Offense DWI (within 5 years)
Class A Misdemeanor, punishable by:
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Up to $2,000 fine
- 1-year license revocation
- Ignition interlock device (IID) requirement
Third Offense DWI (Persistent Offender)
Class E Felony, punishable by:
- Up to 4 years in prison
- Up to $10,000 fine
- 10-year license revocation
- Mandatory IID and substance abuse treatment
Aggravating Factors
Additional penalties may apply if:
- You had a high BAC (0.15% or higher)
- You were involved in an accident causing injury or death
- A minor child was in the vehicle
- You refused to submit to a chemical test
Common Legal Defenses to DWI Charges
At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we tailor each defense to the unique facts of your case. Some of the most common legal defenses to DWI charges include:
- Unlawful Traffic Stop: If the police lacked reasonable suspicion to pull you over, any evidence gathered after the stop could be thrown out.
- Improper Field Sobriety Tests: Field sobriety tests must be administered according to strict protocols. Improperly conducted tests may produce unreliable results.
- Faulty Breath or Blood Tests: Breathalyzer machines require regular calibration, and lab technicians must follow exact procedures. We scrutinize the testing process to identify errors that could invalidate the results.
- Medical Conditions or Medications: Certain health issues or prescribed medications can mimic intoxication symptoms or interfere with test results.
- Rising BAC Defense: Your BAC could have been below the legal limit while driving but rose afterward during testing.
Our attorneys will thoroughly investigate every angle to find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case and aggressively advocate for your rights.
FAQs About DWI Charges in MO
How long will a DWI stay on my record in Missouri?
In Missouri, a DWI conviction can stay on your criminal record permanently unless it is expunged. First-time offenses may be eligible for expungement after 10 years if certain conditions are met.
Can I refuse a breathalyzer test?
Yes, but refusing a chemical test can result in an automatic 1-year license revocation under Missouri’s Implied Consent Law, even if you're not ultimately convicted.
Will I lose my license if I’m arrested for DWI?
Possibly. Missouri has both criminal and administrative penalties, meaning the Department of Revenue can suspend your license independently of the court’s decision.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time DWI?
Absolutely. Even first-time DWIs carry severe consequences. A qualified DWI defense lawyer can help minimize the penalties or even get the charges reduced or dismissed.
Contact The Hammer Law Firm, LLC Today for a Free Consultation
Don’t face DWI charges alone. The sooner you contact a knowledgeable St. Charles DWI defense lawyer, the better your chances of protecting your rights and your future.
Contact us today at (314) 334-3807 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step towards a decisive legal strategy.
client testimonials
At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"Help and support through every step of the process..."
Growing up often has painful mistakes, as my son can attest to! Mark and Nicole were both sympathetic and supportive as they ...
- D.S. -
"Thank God for Mark Hammer"
I cannot begin to explain in words how thankful I am that I contacted the Hammer Law Firm when I found myself facing criminal legal charges. I and my family will always be grateful beyond words for the role that Mark Hammer and The Hammer Law Firm played i
- Former Client -
"Mark and Nicole are the best law firm partners ever."
They are professional, courteous, and respectful to both the courts and their clients. This team of professionals is not in business just for the money, they are truly out to help their clients.
- C.E. -
"He is a gentleman, exudes confidence and relieves stress with his truth."
After a thorough review, Mark began to address every legal issue confronting our son, he had already done his homework, which began to bring sanity back into our family as we sat there.
- Ken -
"Phenomenal Experience!!"
We contacted Mark Hammer for help with our son. Mark was truly amazing! He worked hard for our son, was always a text or phone call away, and we could not have asked (or predicted) a better outcome! Absolutely in awe of him.
- D.C. -
"You don't know how much of a blessing you are to us"
Thank you so much, Nicole. I have faith and believe everything that's happening is for a reason. I know everything will be fine and I believe you are going to do everything you can and I'm very grateful for it.
- C.G. -
"I could not have imagined getting through this difficult and uncertain time without the help of the Hammer Law Firm."
I absolutely recommend Mark and Nicole to anyone who is needing more than a lawyer, but people who do genuinely care about you and who want to get the best possible outcome to get you through this difficult time.
- E.M. -
"I have never met such dedicated attorneys that work so hard for the truth to come out at the trial."
I just wanted to thank you again for your compassion, kindness, and support given to my family throughout this ordeal. I thank the Hammer Law Firm for not only giving my son his life back but his family as well.
- Former Client
WHY TRUST OUR ST. LOUIS CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAW FIRM?
What Makes Us Different
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One-On-One AttentionWe work directly with you to determine the best possible outcome based on your goals and needs. We then create personalized legal strategies to set your case up for success.
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Accessibility & AvailabilityOur attorneys pride ourselves on always being available to address any questions you have regarding your case. With our team, you aren't just a number.
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Unique Legal InsightAs former prosecutors who know how the 'other side' operates, we have a unique insight that allows us to set our client's cases up for success.
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Experienced Legal CounselThe Hammer Law Firm, LLC team has more than 60 years of combined criminal law experience. We have the tools, knowledge, and resources to effectively advocate on your behalf.
When you want personal support and proven representation, you need to bring The Hammer Law Firm, LLC to the fight.