DWI sentencing in Kansas City and all of Missouri
Written by: Christopher Yotz
If you are charged with DWI in Missouri, whether you have ever been charged with an alcohol related offense before is the largest determining factor on the how serious the charge will be. Prior alcohol related offenses can include DWI, DUI, BAC and other more serious offenses. The court looks all the way back to the day you were born to determine what prior offenses may be counted.
Below are the possible charge levels for DWI in Missouri and potential sentences imposed if you are convicted.
B Level Misdemeanor
First ever DWI offense, or
One prior offense that is more than 5 years old
From 1 day to 6 months in the county jail
Up to a $500.00 fine
8 points assessed to your Missouri driver record resulting in a 30 day point suspension
A Level Misdemeanor-Prior offender
Second offense within 5 years
From 1 day to 1 year in the county jail
Up to a $1,000.00 fine
12 points assessed to your Missouri driver record resulting in a 1 year license revocation
If you have two convictions within 5 years your license will be revoked for 5 years
D Level Felony-Persistant offender
Two prior offenses
From 30 days to 1 year in the county jail
From 1 year to 4 years in prison
Up to a $5,000.00 fine
12 points assessed to your Missouri driver record
If this is a third conviction your license will be revoked for 10 years
C Level Felony-Aggravated offender
Three prior offenses
From 60 days to 1 year in the county jail
From 1 year to 7 years in prison
Up to a $5,000.00 fine
12 points assessed to your Missouri driver record
If this is a third conviction your license will be revoked for 10 years
B Level Felony-Chronic offender
Four prior offenses
From 5 years to 15 years in prison
Must serve at least 5 years before parole can be granted
If this is a third conviction your license will be revoked for 10 years
Whether you are charged with a first offense or a felony, you should hire an experienced DWI attorney to help protect your rights. As you can see above, the results of a conviction for DWI can become very serious very quickly. Contact attorney Chris Yotz today to help protect your rights and freedom.