Missouri DWI Defense Attorney
A DWI charge can put your driving privileges, freedom, and future opportunities at risk. Whether this is your first offense or you have faced DWI charges before, an experienced attorney can help you understand the potential penalties and explore your defense options.
At The Garrett Law Firm, our attorney brings over ten years of experience to criminal defense representation. We examine the circumstances of your arrest, evaluate the evidence, and build a defense based on the facts of your case.
Located in Branson, Missouri, we serve clients throughout Stone County and Taney County. If you are facing DWI charges, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Missouri Laws Governing DWIs
Under the Revised Statutes of Missouri, RSMo Section 577.010, you can face a DWI charge if you operate a vehicle while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. Missouri also sets blood alcohol concentration (BAC) thresholds for certain offenses and driver's license penalties. The following BAC limits apply in different circumstances:
0.08% for most drivers: Driving at or above this level can support an excessive-BAC charge and trigger administrative license penalties.
0.04% for commercial vehicle operators: This lower threshold applies to certain commercial driving violations and license consequences.
0.02% for drivers under 21: Missouri's zero-tolerance law allows administrative penalties for underage drivers at or above this level.
You can also face a DWI charge below these thresholds if other evidence establishes that you were intoxicated while operating a vehicle.
What Penalties Could You Face for a Missouri DWI?
Missouri determines DWI penalties based on your qualifying prior offenses and the circumstances of your case. Certain aggravating factors can also increase the severity of the charge. Potential penalties include:
First offense: A standard first-time DWI is generally a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Second offense: If you qualify as a prior offender, you may face a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $2,000.
Third or subsequent offense: Additional qualifying offenses can lead to felony charges, longer prison sentences, and higher fines.
You may also face a separate administrative license suspension or revocation. The duration and your eligibility for restricted driving privileges depend on your circumstances.
How Else Can a DWI Charge Affect Your Life?
A DWI conviction can affect your employment, professional licensing, finances, and housing opportunities. Employers and landlords may consider criminal records, while certain jobs require a valid driver's license.
However, a DWI charge does not mean you will be convicted. The prosecution must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, and you have the right to challenge the allegations against you.
Charged with a DWI?
Our DWI Defense Services
At The Garrett Law Firm, we examine the circumstances of your case, identify potential weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you throughout the legal process. Our DWI defense services include:
Case Analysis & Evaluation
We review what happened before, during, and after your arrest to identify potential legal defenses. This includes examining whether officers had a lawful reason to stop your vehicle, probable cause to arrest you, and whether they followed required procedures.
If we identify legal violations or other weaknesses in the evidence, we evaluate how they could affect your case.
Challenging Evidence & Testing
A breath test result or an officer's observations do not automatically mean you are guilty of DWI. We examine field sobriety tests, breath or blood test results, and other evidence against you.
Our experienced Missouri DWI defense attorney reviews whether officers properly maintained and calibrated testing equipment, administered tests correctly, and followed applicable procedures when collecting and preserving evidence.
If officers violated your constitutional rights while obtaining evidence, we can ask the court to exclude it. A successful challenge could weaken the prosecution's case.
Court Representation & Negotiations
We represent you during bond hearings and court appearances, present arguments on your behalf, and explain your legal options throughout the proceedings. When appropriate, we also negotiate with prosecutors to pursue reduced charges, plea agreements, or alternative sentencing options based on your circumstances.
DMV & Administrative Services
A DWI arrest can trigger administrative license penalties before your criminal case concludes. In Missouri, the Department of Revenue handles these matters separately from criminal proceedings. We help you challenge administrative license actions, meet applicable deadlines, and explore reinstatement or restricted driving privileges when available.
Contact Our Experienced Missouri DWI Defense Lawyer
A DWI arrest does not have to determine your future. At The Garrett Law Firm, our attorney has over ten years of experience representing clients in DWI and traffic offense cases. Whether you face misdemeanor or felony charges, we will examine the evidence, challenge the allegations where appropriate, and pursue a favorable resolution.
Located in Branson, Missouri, we represent clients throughout Stone County and Taney County. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss your DWI defense options.
Client Testimonials
“I would highly recommend Josh. I have hired him and his law firm three times and he and his staff work hard to help you win your case. They are very friendly, down to earth, and he gives great advice.” - James Burns
“I owe Mr. Garrett and his office my life. They are amazing! I couldn't be more thankful for everything they have done for me through my felony criminal case that rendered a not guilty verdict. I highly, HIGHLY recommend them.” - Stacie Pewton
“From the start, Mr. Garrett and his staff were upfront about fees/pricing, and how he would represent. If you are considering using The Garrett Law Firm, I would highly recommend you do so.” - Shanna Tilley