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What Are The Consequences For A First Time Offender?

If it's your first offense, and if no injury is involved, the consequences may be as light as a fine and a suspended license or less. But make no mistake, even first­timers are going to jail these days. If you have previous arrests, you may face stiff penalties. In many cases, even with a second or third offense, a lawyer may be able to keep you from going to jail. And make no mistake, your previous record will be a factor, even if you had a prior arrest or conviction taken care of. Even though the prior may not appear on your official driving record, it will appear in records available to the police and the prosecution. If that's the case, you aren't likely to fool a judge into thinking you are a first time offender.

Other Missouri Drunk Driving Defense FAQs

  • Q: What These Words Mean
    A: Traffic Ticket or Summons­ command by court order to appear in court. Failure to appear may result in a warrant for your arrest Charge­ what the police … More
  • Q: When You Get To Court
    A: If you don`t know, ask the clerk if your name is on the list for that day, then sit down in the court room. When your name is called, walk up to the judge and answer … More
  • Q: If You Plead Guilty
    A: You may then tell the judge everything that happened. The judge may ask you questions. You must answer them. The judge will tell you how much money to pay as a fine … More
  • Q: You Should Plead Not Guilty:
    A: If you did not do what the police officer says you did. If you are not sure that what you did was against the law. If you plead Not guilty, you will be given a trial. More
  • Q: Trial
    A: If you do not have a lawyer and you, your family or a friend think you need the help of one, you should contact one BEFORE going to court. The judge may set your … More
  • Q: Penalties
    A: Fine Jail Both fine and jail Other. The judge may include in the penalty an order to go to driver`s school, alcohol safety school or other schools to help you better … More
  • Q: Appeal
    A: Also known as trial de novo which means new trial. If you think what the judge or jury decides is unfair or wrong, you may ask for your case to be sent to a higher … More
  • Q: Rights
    A: Remember, you have the right to: Have a reasonable time after you are charged with a traffic violation to get ready to answer the charge in court. Have a lawyer. The … More
  • Q: What Is Dui?
    A: Driving while intoxicated (DWI) or driving while under the influence of alcohol or narcotics (DUI) is a serious offense. If anyone is injured by your actions, you may … More
  • Q: Will My License Be Revoked Or Suspended?
    A: Another consequence of DWI/DUI is the loss of your license. In Kansas and Missouri, if your blood alcohol content is more than .08% in Kansas or .08% in Missouri, the … More
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Arrested? Know Your Legal Rights

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