In Kansas City, a DUI is a serious charge, and they are classified differently based on the nature of the DUI and if you have any prior convictions. Facing first-time DUI charges only gives you a margin of tolerance, but you can still be facing heavy penalties. If you are facing a first time DUI offense, you need to hire an experienced attorney to help reduce the impact it will have on your criminal record and your life. At KC DUI & Defense Counsel, our highly experienced DUI attorneys will be able to provide you with the representation that you need to safeguard your future.
What Happens When You Get a DUI for the First Time?
When facing a DUI arrest for the first time, an officer will perform a traffic stop. If they observe erratic behaviors or are suspicious of impairment, the officer may conduct some field sobriety tests. These tests assess the driver’s level of impairment and can lead to a chemical or breath test to measure your blood alcohol content. In Missouri, it’s vital to understand that they have implied consent laws, and by driving a vehicle, you consent to chemical testing if requested by law enforcement. If these tests produce a result that is a BAC of 0.08% or higher, then you, as the driver, will be arrested and booked.
Penalties for a First-Time DUI Charge
In Missouri, they treat a DUI of any kind as a serious charge, and not only are there penalties, but there are also mandatory suspensions, programs, and devices. The penalties range based on the jurisdiction, judge, and how strong your defensive case is.
Penalties for a first time DUI offense can include:
- Fine ranging from $500-$1,000
- Court and administrative fees
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Community Service
- Mandatory driver’s license suspension up to 30 days
- Ignition Interlock Device
- Mandatory substance abuse education program
When facing a DUI charge, you need a skilled and experienced attorney to provide a strong defense. While these penalties and charges are daunting, there are legal defense options to challenge them and help reduce their effects on your life.
Long-Term Consequences of a First-Time DUI Conviction
First time DUIs come with hefty penalties, but the unseen long term consequences aren’t discussed in your case. DUI convictions have serious ramifications that can linger for the rest of your life. A DUI conviction can haunt your life for many years after you’ve paid your fines and fulfilled your legal obligations.
A DUI conviction’s long term consequences can be:
- A DUI will appear on background checks
- Jeopardizes your chances of employment or rental status
- Increase your car insurance rates
- Denied college acceptance and scholarships
- Public shame
Plan ahead and prioritize having a designated driver if you drink and need to travel somewhere after you drink. It’s vital that you know your limits and don’t drive if you feel impaired to ensure that you don’t face DUI charges. If you do face DUI charges, you should consult with an experienced DUI attorney to ensure that you don’t incriminate yourself further and your attorney can start on your defense as soon as possible.
Why You Need a First-Time DUI Attorney
When facing a first time DUI, it’s imperative that you hire a DUI attorney with a proven record of success. An experienced DUI attorney and their legal team will have the resources and robust strategies to challenge the charges.
Common strategies are:
- Challenging the validity of the traffic stop
- Questioning the breathalyzer results
- Issues with the field sobriety test
- Defending the BAC test based on the time the test was administered
The ability to challenge a DUI takes an experienced team and a tenacious attorney who is willing to challenge your charges so that you do not suffer the consequences for the rest of your life.
Get in Touch with a First-Time DUI Lawyer in Kansas City
The consequences of being charged with drunk driving can be severe, impacting driving privileges, finances, and any future opportunities you may have planned. At KC DUI & Defense Counsel, we are here to provide you with an aggressive representation because we understand that a DUI charge doesn’t define who you are. Contact us today to learn more about the penalties you could face and the defenses that we can use to fight your charges.
Frequently Asked Questions About First-Time DUI in Missouri
Will I lose my license immediately?
A first-time DUI (DWI) in Missouri results in a 90-day license suspension. The suspension typically begins soon after arrest or conviction. However, you may be able to request limited driving privileges under some circumstances.
Can I get a restricted license to drive to work or school?
Yes, most first-time offenders are eligible for a Restricted Driving Privilege (RDP) after a brief period of full suspension (usually 30 days). The RDP usually allows you to drive to work, school, medical appointments, or other approved locations for the remaining 60 days of the suspension.
What is the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Missouri?
- Drivers 21 and older: 0.08% BAC
- Commercial drivers: 0.04% BAC
- Drivers under 21: 0.02% BAC
Do I have to take the breathalyzer or field sobriety tests?
Missouri's implied consent law requires drivers to submit to chemical testing (breath, blood, or urine) if law enforcement suspects DUI. Refusing a chemical test leads to a one-year license revocation, separate from any DUI penalties. Field sobriety tests can be refused, but refusal may still be used as evidence in court and may not prevent your arrest.
Will a first-time DUI stay on my record?
Yes, a first-time DUI conviction will appear on your criminal record and driving record. In most cases, a DUI cannot be expunged for at least ten years, and only if you have no subsequent alcohol-related offenses.
Can a DUI charge be reduced or dismissed?
While not guaranteed, a DUI charge may be reduced or dismissed if there are flaws in the prosecution's case, such as lack of probable cause, improper testing procedures, or violations of your rights. An experienced DUI attorney can evaluate your situation and develop possible defenses.
What should I do if I’m stopped for suspicion of a DUI?
- Remain calm and respectful
- Provide identification and required documents
- You may decline to answer questions about drinking/drug use
- You can refuse field sobriety tests (but expect further investigation)
- Understand that refusing a chemical (breath/blood/urine) test will result in a one-year license revocation
- Request to speak with an attorney as soon as possible
For further guidance and strong legal defense regarding your first DUI in Kansas City, contact KC DUI & Defense Counsel.
