Many people who are charged with DWI think that there is nothing they can do but pay the fine and plead guilty. Until you speak with a lawyer, however, you will not know what your options are. There may be valid reasons to contest the charge.

After I review your case, I will carefully explain your options and the penalties you are facing. As an experienced defense attorney, I can assess your case and determine whether we can fight the criminal charges. In addition, I will represent you at the driver's license suspension hearing and protect your license. Please contact me at The Law Office of Michael L. Roberts, LLC, for a free consultation with a Joplin DWI defense attorney.

Examining police procedure, including Breathalyzer tests and field sobriety tests, is a critical part of DWI defense. I was a police officer for 16 years so I know exactly how these tests should be given and when you should be advised of your rights.

A first offense for DWI is a class B misdemeanor in Missouri. The penalties for a first DWI conviction may include:

It is important to contest a DWI charge in case you are ever charged with another DWI-related offense. The penalties for subsequent offenses are much harsher and typically include the installation of an ignition interlock device on the driver's vehicle. A third DWI-related arrest can be charged as a felony if you have two prior DWI convictions.

You have just 15 days from the arrest to request a license hearing with the Missouri Department of Revenue. If you miss this deadline, you may not be able to appeal the suspension/revocation if you have prior DWI-related offenses. At the hearing, I will contest the license suspension and try to restore your driving privileges. If the suspension is upheld, I can help you apply for a hardship license after 30 days.

Contact A Neosho DUI Defense Attorney

To schedule a free consultation, please call (417) 624-0700 or contact me online.

The Law Office of Michael L. Roberts, LLC, in Joplin serves people from areas such as Neosho, Webb City, Carthage, Lamar, Nevada, Monett, Mount Vernon, Carl Junction, Oronogo, Carterville, Duenweg, Duquesne, Leawood, Jasper County, Newton County, Barton County, McDonald County and Vernon County, Missouri.