St. Charles Multiple DWI Attorney

Charged with a Second or Subsequent DWI in St. Charles, MO?

Facing a charge for driving while intoxicated (DWI) is stressful enough, but when it is not your first offense, the consequences in Missouri become much more severe. Prosecutors take multiple DWI cases very seriously, and penalties escalate with each conviction. If you are facing a second, third, or fourth (or subsequent) DWI charge, you need strong legal representation to protect your rights and your future. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, our team is ready to fight for you. An experienced St. Charles multiple DWI lawyer can review your case, challenge the evidence, and work to achieve the best possible outcome.

Contact our team today to schedule an initial consultation.

Second DWI

A second DWI conviction in Missouri is treated as a Class A misdemeanor, and the penalties are significantly harsher than those for a first-time offender.

Some potential consequences include:

• Jail time: Up to one year in jail, with a mandatory minimum of 10 days (which can sometimes be served through community service).
• Fines: Up to $2,000 in fines.
• License suspension: A one-year revocation of your driver’s license, with possible ignition interlock device requirements afterward.
• Insurance issues: A second DWI conviction often leads to much higher auto insurance premiums.

A second DWI also establishes a history of impaired driving, which prosecutors use to argue for harsher punishments. Our St. Charles multiple DWI lawyer can work to reduce charges, negotiate alternatives, and challenge the state’s case against you.

Third DWI

A third DWI offense in Missouri is classified as a Class E felony. At this point, the state sees you as a repeat offender, and the penalties reflect that seriousness.

Consequences of a third DWI conviction include:

• Prison time: Up to four years in prison, with a mandatory minimum of 30 days.
• Fines: Up to $10,000 in fines.
• Driver’s license revocation: A 10-year denial of driving privileges, with limited opportunities for reinstatement.
• Felony record: A felony conviction can affect employment, housing opportunities, and your right to own firearms.

At this level, fighting the charge aggressively is crucial. An experienced attorney can evaluate whether the police followed proper procedures, whether the breath or blood test was reliable, and whether there are opportunities to suppress evidence.

Fourth or Subsequent DWI

A fourth or subsequent DWI is considered an even more serious felony under Missouri law. Depending on prior convictions, you may be classified as a “persistent” or “dangerous” offender, which carries significantly enhanced penalties.

Possible outcomes include:

• Long prison sentences: Ranging from several years to more than a decade, depending on your offender status.
• Permanent license revocation: In many cases, you may permanently lose your right to drive.
• Extensive fines: Thousands of dollars in fines, in addition to court costs and fees.
• Collateral consequences: Having multiple DWI convictions can affect your career, your family relationships, and even your ability to travel outside the country.

At this level, your freedom and your future are at stake. Our St. Charles multiple DWI lawyer can work to limit the damage, explore possible defenses, and ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process.

Multiple DWI FAQs

What counts as a prior DWI conviction in Missouri?

Any prior DWI conviction in Missouri or another state can count against you, depending on the circumstances. Even out-of-state convictions may be used to enhance penalties.

Can I expunge a prior DWI conviction?

In some cases, a first-time DWI conviction may be eligible for expungement after 10 years. However, multiple DWIs generally cannot be expunged, which means your record will reflect the prior offenses.

Will I lose my license automatically?

You may face an administrative license suspension through the Missouri Department of Revenue, separate from the criminal case. An attorney can help you request a hearing to challenge the suspension.

Do I have to install an ignition interlock device (IID)?

Yes, for repeat offenders, an IID is often mandatory before driving privileges can be reinstated.

Why should I hire a St. Charles multiple DWI lawyer?

Multiple DWI cases carry steep penalties, and without a lawyer, you risk harsher outcomes. An attorney can investigate whether the police had probable cause, whether chemical tests were administered correctly, and whether your rights were violated.

Why Choose The Hammer Law Firm, LLC?

At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we understand the high stakes in multiple DWI cases. We provide aggressive, strategic defense for clients facing repeat DWI charges in St. Charles and throughout Missouri. Our approach includes:

• Thorough case investigation
• Challenging questionable evidence
• Negotiating with prosecutors for reduced charges
• Fighting for you in court when necessary
• Your future is too important to leave to chance

If you have been charged with a second, third, or subsequent DWI, you cannot afford to face it alone. The penalties are severe, but with the right legal representation, you may be able to protect your freedom and your driving privileges.

Call us today at (314) 334-3807 to begin your defense journey.