Driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a serious offense in Missouri, yet many individuals underestimate the gravity of these charges and their long-term consequences. Whether it’s the misconception that first-time offenses aren’t a big issue or the lack of awareness about the cascading effects on your personal and professional status, underestimating a DUI/DWI charge can lead to major negative outcomes. Understanding the full scope of legal, financial, and personal repercussions is crucial for anyone facing a DUI/DWI charge.
Consequences & Implications for DUI/DWI Convictions
Below is a rundown of why DUIs/DWIs should be taken seriously:
- Criminal record, impacting employment opportunities and professional licenses
- Financial costs including fines, legal fees, and increased insurance premiums
- Mandatory participation in drug/alcohol treatment programs
- Social stigma affecting personal relationships and reputation
- Potential emotional distress and related health impacts
- Potential job loss or limitations on career opportunities
- Long-term impact on driving privileges and professional licenses
What Happens If I Get a DUI/DWI?
The consequences of a DUI/DWI go beyond immediate legal penalties. Convictions can result in a criminal record, which can affect employment opportunities, professional licenses, and even housing applications. Financially, beyond fines and legal fees, you may face increased insurance premiums and the cost of mandatory programs and devices. Socially, the stigma of a DUI/DWI can strain personal relationships and impact your reputation. Additionally, the emotional stress and anxiety associated with legal proceedings and potential jail time can have lasting effects on mental health. Understanding these far-reaching consequences is essential for recognizing the seriousness of DUI/DWI charges.
It’s important to take these charges seriously. Not only can you have points added on your license, you could face jail time, lose your job, and have your license suspended on top of other fines up to $500. Moreover, the impact on your personal and professional life can be profound, affecting your social standing, job prospects, and overall quality of life. The stigma associated with a DUI/DWI can lead to strained relationships, difficulty in securing employment, and even issues with travel as some countries restrict entry to individuals with criminal records.
What If This Is My First DUI/DWI?
If you were just arrested for or charged with a DUI/DWI in Missouri, Missouri law is clear about the severity of the charge. You can get up to 8 points added to your driving record, up to 6 months in jail, a fine up to $500, a 3-month license suspension, and automatically be enrolled in drug/alcohol treatment programs. A first offense is usually classified as a Class B Misdemeanor.
What If This Isn’t My First DUI/DWI?
If you’re pulled over for suspicious driving or intoxication, you’ll likely be facing a Class A Misdemeanor. See below for some of the consequences:
Jail Time: You may be sentenced to no more than one year in jail. Any jail sentence for a second DWI must include a minimum of 10 days of “shock time” before possible suspension of sentence or probation.
Probation: You may be placed on probation for up to two years.
Fines: Fines can be as high as $1,000. If you’re involved in an accident, you may have to pay restitution to anyone who was injured. Special damages cover quantifiable expenses such as medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. General damages compensate for non-economic losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Driving Privileges: Your driving privileges may be suspended for one to five years.
Breath Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device (BAIID): In Missouri, you are required to install and maintain a BAIID at your own expense, which prevents the vehicle from starting if your BAC is over a certain limit.
Alcohol Monitoring: Continuous, verifiable alcohol monitoring is required, either by regular breath tests or a wearable device.
Treatment Program: Participation in a drug/alcohol treatment program is mandatory.
High-Risk Auto Insurance (SR-22): You must purchase a high-risk auto insurance plan if you want to drive.
In the next chapter, we’ll discuss the administrative component in a St. Louis DWI case relates to your driving privileges and how the Missouri Department of Revenue handles your license revocation or suspension.
Aside from legal consequences, a DUI/DWI can have long-term impacts on various aspects of your life. For instance, if your job requires you to drive, a suspended license can jeopardize your employment. Even if driving isn’t a core part of your job, some employers may view a DUI/DWI as a sign of irresponsibility, potentially affecting your career advancement. Furthermore, if you hold any professional licenses, a DUI/DWI conviction could result in disciplinary action or even revocation of your license, depending on your profession’s regulations.
It’s important to seek out legal assistance as soon as possible to mitigate these consequences. Finding an attorney that is willing to challenge the evidence and help you a case is absolutely paramount in order to forgo any major life-long implications.
