Saint Louis Felony DUI Lawyer
Missouri Attorney Handling Felony DWI Cases
Drunk driving charges must be addressed by a knowledgeable lawyer. Being convicted of a felony DUI/DWI can result in serious punishments and lifelong consequences as a result of having a felony on your criminal record. At The Law Offices of John M. Lynch, LLC, our firm confidently handles felony DWI cases for clients in St. Louis and throughout the surrounding communities. We have successfully defended clients charged with a range of felony and misdemeanor crimes, including felony DWI.
Attorney John M. Lynch is an aggressive advocate for our clients' rights. He has years of experience representing clients in state and federal court. Mr. Lynch can review your felony DUI/DWI case to determine how best to pursue a resolution. He can work with the prosecution to secure a plea bargain to lesser charges or seek a dismissal of your case. Mr. Lynch can also vigorously fight for your rights in front of a judge and jury whenever necessary.
Facing felony DWI charges? Do not hesitate to contact us and schedule a free initial consultation with a criminal defense attorney at our office.
A felony DWI in Missouri is a Class D felony. A conviction on this type of charge can result in a monetary fine of up to $5,000 plus court costs. The maximum jail time to be served is five years. Also, you may be considered a persistent offender, or repeat offender, if you receive a third DUI/DWI charge (felony or misdemeanor) within 10 years. Multiple DUI convictions can result in more severe punishments: more jail time, larger fines and ignition interlock systems installation.
No Outright Probation for Felony DWI
No court can give probation or allow the driver to pay a fine in place of imprisonment for a Missouri felony DWI. To receive probation for a Missouri felony DUI/DWI, the driver must serve a minimum of 10 days in jail or perform 60 days' community service under supervision.
Required Ignition Interlock System
If you plead guilty or are convicted of a felony DWI, you will be required to install an ignition interlock system in your vehicle. Ignition interlock is a device that tests the driver's breath for alcohol. If any alcohol is detected, usually above .025 percent (roughly a quarter of the legal limit), the vehicle will not operate. Many ignition interlock devices will require the driver to keep blowing into the device at certain intervals to keep the vehicle operating. After three failed attempts for positive alcohol tests resulting in vehicle lockouts, the driver must pay to have the car taken to a certified service center in order to have the system reset.
Having an ignition interlock system can have personal and professional ramifications. If you use your vehicle for business, a client may observe you having to blow into the device, resulting in a less-than-stellar impression being made. The device may create a personal stigma that is hard to shake.
Contact Us Today
Do not risk your future by not taking immediate action to protect your rights when facing felony charges, especially as a repeat offender. To further discuss your options following a felony DWI charge or drunk driving arrest, contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation.