Missouri DUI Penalties: Fines, Jail Time, and License Suspension

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Drinking and driving or driving drunk is a criminal act in Missouri. The state punished the criminals severely. You are punished by having to pay fines, you get jailed, and your driving license gets suspended. Missouri has protective laws for all the individuals who are on the roads. When you are arrested for driving with blood alcohol content (BAC) 0.08% and above, you will be charged under the law. Consult a good dui defense lawyer in Kansas City. This article talks about Missouri DUI fines that you will be remitting while you are being charged for a Missouri DUI.

What is a Missouri DUI?

Missouri laws criminalize operating under the influence of a BAC over .08%. Anything under this proportion is for others. Commercial vehicle operators, for example, ought to be under 0.04% BAC. Quantifiable alcohol at age 21 and below will be DUI. Police can arrest you even if you are not under the influence of chemicals or drugs while on the move. DUI is also driving under the influence of drugs, even when your BAC is at or below legal levels. The issue is whether or not your driving is unsafe through the use of alcohol or drugs.

Missouri DUI Penalties Overview

Missouri classifies DUI crimes based on how many times you’ve been arrested before. The sentence becomes more severe with a second offense. The level of your BAC and whether your behavior caused an accident or harm are also considered by the court. The following is an overview of punishment for a first, second, and third DUI crime in Missouri:

First DUI Offense

  • Fines: $500-$1,000
  • Jail Time: Up to 6 months (likely no jail time for first offense)
  • License Suspension: 90 days to 1 year
  • Other Penalties: Likely alcohol education or treatment program

Judges likely will impose probation or treatment for a first offense instead of jail, but the consequences are still severe.

Second DUI Offense

  • Fines: $1,000-$3,000
  • Jail Time: 5 days to 1 year
  • License Suspension: 1 to 3 years
  • Other Penalties: Ignition interlock device can be required

Severe punishment is reserved for repeat offenders. Imprisonment is more likely and license suspension longer.

Third DUI Offense

  • Fines: $3,000 to $5,000
  • Jail Time: 10 days to 4 years in prison
  • License Suspension: 3 to 5 years
  • Other Penalties: Ignition interlock device can be required, possible felony charges

Third DUI is a Missouri felony. Offenses are rewarded with prison and long license suspension.

Missouri DUI fines

DUI fines are different according to the number of offences and type of case. Charges and expenses apart from fees are also imposed by courts. For example, in case your DUI was likely to result in death or injury, the fines are greater. Missouri uses fines as not just a penalty system, but also as a means to raise money for drunk driving prevention programs. Should you fail to pay the fine or fail to appear in court, there might be further penalties. The court, in certain instances, is even capable of issuing a warrant of arrest should you fail to meet the fines.

Missouri Jail Time for DUI

Jail time varies according to the case and crime. First-time offenders can remain outside of jail or only briefly in jail. Repeat offenders spend longer in jail or less time in prison. If your DUI was the culmination of an accident and particularly an accident involving a death or injury, you could have a felony charge with jail time. Jail time in this instance is several years.

Missouri License Suspension Laws

Missouri suspends your license when you are arrested and convicted of drunk driving. Suspension varies depending on the number of times you have been convicted, as well as on a case-by-case basis.

  • First offense: Suspension is 90 days to 1 year
  • Second offense: Suspension is 1 to 3 years
  • Third offense: Suspension is 3 to 5 years

You may at some point be eligible for a restricted driving license. It permits you to drive to work, school, or treatment needs while suspended. You are subject to certain conditions and are required to have an ignition interlock device installed in your car.

Ignition Interlock Device

Missouri generally doesn’t require use of an ignition interlock device on drunk driving offenders. The device breathes your blood alcohol content before you can operate your vehicle. Your car won’t start if the device senses alcohol. Interlock devices must be installed on some second DUI offenses and on any third. You may have to install one in order to qualify for a restricted driving license. The device must stay installed on your car for some length of time.

Other Potential DUI Consequences

In addition to fines, jail time, and license revocation, DUI can lead to other problems.

  • Alcohol or drug education: The court will mandate that you attend class or treatment.
  • Community service: You must perform work for the community at no cost to you.
  • Probation: You may be put on probation, which involves following rules from the court for months or years.
  • Increased insurance premiums: Insurance companies pay more in the event that you have a DUI on your record.
  • Criminal record: Your DUI will be on your record and can impact job, housing, and beyond.

These crimes have an effect on many facets of your life.

What If I Refuse a Breathalyzer Test?

Missouri does have an implied consent law. When you drive in Missouri, you’ve agreed to testing by chemicals if asked by a police officer. Refusal to undergo a breath test or other chemical test will result in license suspension.

  • 1st refusal: 1-year suspension
  • 2nd refusal: 2-year suspension

Not taking a test will also be used against you in court.

How to Remain Safe from Missouri DUI Consequences

The best way to be safe from consequences is never to drive drunk or on drugs. Plan in advance and have a driver who is sober or uses a ride service.

When arrested for driving under the influence, then it is advisable to have an attorney. An attorney will explain your rights, the law, and your options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is Missouri legal blood alcohol concentration for DUI?

Most drivers need to remain under 0.08% BAC. Commercial drivers need to remain at or under 0.04%. Drivers under the age of 21 need to be completely alcohol-free.

2. How long is my first DUI license suspension for?

Your license will be suspended 90 days to one year depending on your judge and case.

3. Will I be sent to jail for a first DUI?

Yes. Threat of six months in prison does exist, but treatment or probation is what judges send more often.

4. What is an ignition interlock device?

It’s an interlock ignition breath test. You must blow into it to start the car. If you have liquor in your mouth, the car will not start.

5. How will a DUI raise my auto insurance?

A: A DUI will surely raise your car insurance. Some won’t even give you a policy. It might be up for several years.

Final Words

Missouri DUI laws are strict. The penalty is enormous fines, prison, license suspension, etc. Repeat offenders receive even stricter punishment. The best you can do is never drink and drive. In case you are arrested for a DUI, seek legal counsel instantly. Sober driving makes every road safe. Be a responsible individual and save your future. 

Contact an experienced Kansas City criminal defense lawyer today.