What Happens if You Get Multiple DUIs in Missouri?
Oct. 24, 2024
If you were arrested for driving while intoxicated a second, third, or subsequent time, you should know that Missouri law punishes repeat DWI offenders more harshly than those with no prior drunk driving convictions on their record. And the more DWIs, commonly referred to as DUIs, you have, the harsher the punishment.
At Walker Law LLC, I completely understand that everyone can make mistakes. As a former cop who served in the greater St. Louis area, I know first-hand how unforgiving the criminal justice system can be when someone is arrested for drunk driving with multiple DWIs on their record. I decided to make a career change and became a criminal defense attorney because I wanted to help people like you fight back against the formidable legal system.
What Is DWI in Missouri?
DWI stands for driving while intoxicated, but it’s sometimes referred to as driving under the influence (DUI). A person may face this charge any time they operate a motor vehicle when:
their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is at 0.08% or higher; or
they are under the influence of alcohol or drugs (or a combination of both) to the extent that their ability to safely drive is impaired.
Generally, a first DWI conviction in Missouri is a Class B misdemeanor with the maximum penalties of six months in jail and a $500 fine. Most first-time DWI offenders in Missouri receive a suspended sentence.
What Happens If You Get a DWI a Second Time?
When you get arrested for drunk driving a second time, whether or not the legal system will treat you as a “prior offender” depends on how long ago the first DWI was. If more than five years passed from the date you were found guilty or pleaded guilty, your new offense will be charged as a first DWI again, meaning you are facing the same penalties as the first time. The only difference is that this time your driver’s license may be suspended for one year instead of the standard 30 days.
However, if it’s been less than five years between your first and second DWIs, you will be considered a prior offender, and your charge will be elevated to Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to a year in jail and a maximum fine of $1,000. Additionally, the Department of Revenue can suspend your driver’s license for up to five years.
What Happens If You Get a DWI a Third Time?
If you have two prior DWIs on your record and get arrested for drunk driving again, your third DWI will become a felony if you are convicted. With three DWIs, you are now considered a “persistent offender” and are facing a Class E felony. There is no longer any “lookback” period when you have two DWIs convictions, which means it doesn’t matter how many years pass from the date of your second DWI to the date of your third DWI. A third DWI in your lifetime is your third DWI. The penalties for Class D felony include up to four years in jail, a maximum fine of $5,000, community service, and driver’s license suspension for 10 years.
What Happens If You Get a DWI a Fourth Time?
If you get a fourth DWI in your lifetime, you will be considered an “aggravated offender” and are facing a Class C felony. The penalties include up to seven years in prison, a maximum fine of $5,000, and driver’s license suspension for 10 years.
Why You Need an Attorney When You Have Multiple DUIs
Just because you have multiple DWIs on your record doesn’t mean you deserve the worst punishment. But that’s not how the prosecutor thinks. When you go up against the legal system without legal counsel, you are an “easy prey” for the prosecution. They actually hope you won’t hire an attorney because it makes their life easier. Does it mean prosecutors are bad people? Not at all. As a former police officer, I know better than anyone else that prosecutors are just doing their jobs.
That’s why you might want to have an attorney in your corner when facing DWI charges, especially if you have prior DWIs on your record. If you are a repeat DUI offender, you won’t be able to get off with a small fine. This time, your freedom and future are on the line. As a DWI attorney in Chesterfield, Missouri, I’m here to help you navigate the legal system and fight for the best outcome possible.
Facing Multiple DWIs Your Record? Let’s Discuss Your Options
The criminal justice system in Missouri punishes those with multiple DWIs harshly. But even repeat offenders have rights and deserve to be treated with dignity. And just because you have prior DWI on your record doesn't mean that you can't fight your new DWI and even possibly win. At Walker Law LLC, I’m here to make sure you understand all your options and provide you with the personalized legal solutions you need. From my offices in Wentzville and Town and Country, I serve clients facing DWI charges throughout St. Louis County and Charles County. You can call my office today to schedule a free consultation.