Aggressive DWI/DUI/DWI and Traffic Violations Attorney in Lake St. Louis, Missouri
Experienced Lawyer Defending DWI/DUI/BWI Charges in Lake of the Ozarks Region
If you have been charged with drunk driving (DWI/DUI) or boating while intoxicated (BWI), or been charged with a traffic violation, the consequences can be severe and last a lifetime. A conviction can result in a permanent mark on your record, and this mark won't just "fall away" with time. These charges are serious, and when it comes to your defense, so are we.
The Stephenson Law Office, LLC, in Lake St. Louis, Missouri, will defend your drunk driving or drunk boating charge or other traffic violation with dedication and focus on minimizing the negative impact on your life as much as possible. Attorney Stephen J. Stephenson has been helping people like for nearly 20 years, and he can help you too. Contact our office to speak with an experienced DWI and traffic violations attorney today.
Drunk Driving: DWI and DUI
After being charged with an alcohol-related driving offense, there are two sets of consequences you should be concerned about, criminal and administrative.
In your criminal case, you face potentially serious consequences:
- The first offense carries a penalty of six months of jail time and one year for the second offense. A third conviction is a felony, which can mean up to four years' incarceration.
- It is up to a $500 fine for the first offense, and $1,000 for the second offense.
- If you are convicted for DWI or DUI, you will automatically lose your license.
- Your first conviction will have a cumulative effect on your criminal record and ramp up the penalties for future DWI or DUI offenses.
If you are a first-time offender, we will fight to keep it off your record and explore alternatives to jail. We will take the time to explain your rights and options and offer you experienced guidance on whether a plea bargain or trial is in your best interest. We believe a well-informed client is in the best position to make well-informed decisions.
The administrative aspect of your case relates to your driver's license:
- The Department of Revenue will suspend or revoke your license, depending on your number of prior offenses. The first offense will result in suspension.
- Subsequent offenses or refusal to take the Breathalyzer test will result in revocation.
- The suspension or revocation will take place automatically within 15 days, or 30 days if you refused the Breathalyzer, unless you demand an administrative hearing.
- Seeking an attorney immediately is vital so you can contest the revocation or suspension and keep your driving privileges.
Boating While Intoxicated: BWI
A BWI charge is punishable like a DUI or DWI, except there is no administrative procedure. It is important to note that a BWI conviction also carries severe criminal consequences and any BWI conviction will count toward enhancing the penalty of any future DWI/DUI convictions.
Traffic Violations
We defend drivers charged with a variety of traffic offenses, including speeding, running stop signs, careless and imprudent driving, and driving with a suspended or revoked license. These convictions increase the points on your driving record, which can lead to a loss of license.
In addition to a significant jump in your car insurance rates, you can face potential jail time and fines. We can often resolve these matters for you without you ever having to appear in court. We will fight to keep the points off your license and resolve your case as efficiently and economically as possible.
Contact us if you have been charged with a DUI, DWI, BUI or traffic violation. Our office is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday and other times are available by appointment. We offer affordable rates and flexible payment plans. Visa, MasterCard and Discover are accepted.
Stephenson Law Office, LLC
Lake St. Louis office (main):
780 Lakeside Plaza
Lake St. Louis, MO 63367
Phone: 636-614-4013 | Toll-Free: 866-492-7568
Fax: 636-978-3417
Map and Directions
Lake of the Ozarks office:
Phone: 573-348-1400 | Toll-Free: 866-492-7568
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