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DWI Protecting Your Rights & Defending Your Future

Experienced Chesterfield DWI Defense Attorney

Do You Need to Hire a Lawyer for a DWI?

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charges are serious and can significantly impact your life. If you’ve been charged with a DWI in Chesterfield, MO, The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, is here to help. With extensive experience in DWI defense, our attorneys are committed to protecting your rights and guiding you through every step of the legal process.

Call (314) 334-3807 or contact us online to let our firm protect your rights and freedom immediately.

What is Considered a DWI?

In Missouri, a DWI occurs when a driver operates a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. Impairment is determined by a driver’s Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) or evidence of drug use.

For most drivers, a BAC of 0.08% or higher constitutes a DWI.

However, stricter BAC limits apply to certain groups:

  • Commercial drivers: BAC of 0.04% or higher
  • Drivers under 21 years old: BAC of 0.02% or higher (under Missouri’s Zero Tolerance Law)

Law enforcement officers use various methods to assess impairment, including field sobriety tests, breath tests, and blood tests. If you’re facing a DWI charge, it’s essential to consult a skilled Chesterfield DWI defense lawyer to review the circumstances of your case.

Missouri DWI Charges & Penalties

DWI charges in Missouri carry severe penalties that escalate with the severity of the offense and any prior convictions. These penalties may include:

First Offense

  • Up to 6 months in jail
  • Fines up to $500
  • License suspension for 30 days, followed by 60 days of restricted driving
  • Possible enrollment in a Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program (SATOP)

Second Offense

  • Up to 1 year in jail
  • Fines up to $1,000
  • License revocation for 1 year
  • Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)

Third Offense (Class D Felony)

  • Up to 4 years in prison
  • Fines up to $10,000
  • License revocation for 10 years
  • Mandatory IID installation

Aggravating factors, such as causing an accident, driving with a minor in the vehicle, or having an exceptionally high BAC, can lead to enhanced penalties. It is crucial to work with an experienced DWI defense lawyer to navigate these complex legal challenges.

Common Legal Defenses to DWI Charges

A DWI charge does not have to result in a conviction. There are numerous defenses that a skilled attorney can use to challenge the prosecution’s case. At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we thoroughly investigate each case to determine the most effective defense strategy. Common defenses include:

Unlawful Traffic Stop

Police must have reasonable suspicion to pull you over. If the officer lacked a valid reason, any evidence obtained during the stop could be inadmissible in court.

  • Inaccurate BAC Testing: Breathalyzers and blood tests are not infallible. Equipment malfunctions, improper calibration, or human error during testing can produce inaccurate results.
  • Field Sobriety Test Issues: Field sobriety tests are subjective and can be influenced by factors such as medical conditions, poor weather, or uneven road surfaces. Your lawyer can challenge the reliability of these tests.
  • Violation of Rights: If law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during the arrest, such as failing to read your Miranda rights, evidence may be suppressed.

With the right legal representation, it is possible to have your charges reduced or even dismissed.

Why Choose The Hammer Law Firm, LLC?

At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, we understand the stress and uncertainty that come with a DWI charge. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized, aggressive legal representation tailored to your unique circumstances.

When you work with us, you can expect:

  • Comprehensive Case Analysis: We leave no stone unturned in investigating your case.
  • Strong Advocacy: We fight tirelessly to protect your rights and minimize the impact of the charges.
  • Open Communication: We keep you informed at every step and answer your questions promptly.

Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for your case, whether that means negotiating a favorable plea deal or taking your case to trial.

Contact us at (314) 334-3807 today to tell our Chesterfield DWI defense lawyer about your case.

client testimonials

At The Hammer Law Firm, LLC, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.

    "Help and support through every step of the process..."

    Growing up often has painful mistakes, as my son can attest to! Mark and Nicole were both sympathetic and supportive as they ...

    - D.S.
    "Thank God for Mark Hammer"

    I cannot begin to explain in words how thankful I am that I contacted the Hammer Law Firm when I found myself facing criminal legal charges. I and my family will always be grateful beyond words for the role that Mark Hammer and The Hammer Law Firm played i

    - Former Client
    "Mark and Nicole are the best law firm partners ever."

    They are professional, courteous, and respectful to both the courts and their clients. This team of professionals is not in business just for the money, they are truly out to help their clients.

    - C.E.
    "He is a gentleman, exudes confidence and relieves stress with his truth."

    After a thorough review, Mark began to address every legal issue confronting our son, he had already done his homework, which began to bring sanity back into our family as we sat there.

    - Ken
    "Phenomenal Experience!!"

    We contacted Mark Hammer for help with our son. Mark was truly amazing! He worked hard for our son, was always a text or phone call away, and we could not have asked (or predicted) a better outcome! Absolutely in awe of him.

    - D.C.
    "You don't know how much of a blessing you are to us"

    Thank you so much, Nicole. I have faith and believe everything that's happening is for a reason. I know everything will be fine and I believe you are going to do everything you can and I'm very grateful for it.

    - C.G.
    "I could not have imagined getting through this difficult and uncertain time without the help of the Hammer Law Firm."

    I absolutely recommend Mark and Nicole to anyone who is needing more than a lawyer, but people who do genuinely care about you and who want to get the best possible outcome to get you through this difficult time.

    - E.M.
    "I have never met such dedicated attorneys that work so hard for the truth to come out at the trial."

    I just wanted to thank you again for your compassion, kindness, and support given to my family throughout this ordeal.  I thank the Hammer Law Firm for not only giving my son his life back but his family as well.

    - Former Client

WHY TRUST OUR ST. LOUIS CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAW FIRM?

What Makes Us Different
  • One-On-One Attention
    We work directly with you to determine the best possible outcome based on your goals and needs. We then create personalized legal strategies to set your case up for success.
  • Accessibility & Availability
    Our attorneys pride ourselves on always being available to address any questions you have regarding your case. With our team, you aren't just a number.
  • Unique Legal Insight
    As former prosecutors who know how the 'other side' operates, we have a unique insight that allows us to set our client's cases up for success.
  • Experienced Legal Counsel
    The Hammer Law Firm, LLC team has more than 60 years of combined criminal law experience. We have the tools, knowledge, and resources to effectively advocate on your behalf.
protecting You & Your Future Former Prosecutors With Over 60 Years of Combined Experience

When you want personal support and proven representation, you need to bring The Hammer Law Firm, LLC to the fight.