What is the Breakdown of Costs for a First DWI in Missouri?

A first-time DWI in Missouri is considered a Class B Misdemeanor. 2024 penalties to expect include:

• Up to $1,000 in fines
• Up to 6 months in jail
• License suspension, typically 90 days
• Court costs, over $100
• Probation fees, $600
• Substance Abuse Traffic Offender’s Program (SATOP), $505-$1381
• Victims Impact Panel (VIP), $45
• SCRAM device, $12 a day
• Ignition Interlock Device, $75 a month

The higher the BAC, the greater the penalties. However, currently in Missouri, it is unlikely that you will do any jail time on your first offense even if you plea guilty. 

Other additional costs of a recent first offense DWI conviction include:

• $25-$75+ per month for 2 years for an SR22
• 1.5 – 2x, or more, for 3 years+ for an insurance hike
• Up tp $2000 for a lawyer ($1,000 is the lowest attorney price for a MO first offender DWI case)
• $575 for the SATOP assessment and class
• $150 in police recoupment
• $250 in miscellaneous fees/extra insurance premiums

First-Time DWI in Missouri: Minimizing the Financial Damage

Being arrested for a first-time DWI in Missouri can be incredibly stressful, and the financial implications can be overwhelming.

This local MO legal guide, written from the perspective of Missouri-based DWI defense attorney, aims to provide clear information and actionable steps specifically tailored to help you minimize the financial impact of a recent first-time DWI charge in our state.

Understanding the Financial Landscape of a First Missouri DWI

• Direct Costs:
  • Fines: You could face a maximum fine of $1,000, but the actual amount will depend on factors like your BAC and any prior offenses.
  • Court Costs: Additional fees associated with court proceedings can vary but can easily reach several hundred dollars.
  • License Reinstatement: Recovering your driver’s license may involve fees ranging from $100 to $300.
  • Ignition Interlock Device (IID): If mandated by the court, installation and monthly monitoring fees for an IID can cost around $1,000 per year.
• Indirect Costs:
  • Increased Insurance Rates: Prepare for potential insurance premium hikes, potentially doubling or tripling your current rates. This impact can last for several years.
  • Probation Fees: Depending on your sentence, you might be required to pay monthly supervision fees, typically ranging from $30 to $50.
  • Lost Wages: License suspension or restrictions can lead to job losses or missed work hours, impacting your income significantly.

Strategies to Minimize Financial Repercussions of a MO DWI

1. Seek Legal Counsel Immediately: Consulting a Missouri-licensed DWI attorney is crucial. They can:
   • Challenge the Stop or Arrest: If law enforcement violated your rights, your lawyer can fight to suppress evidence, potentially leading to dismissed charges.
   • Negotiate Reduced Charges: Your attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor for a lesser charge, like driving while impaired (DWI), which often carries lower fines and penalties than a full DWI conviction.
   • Explore Alternative Sentencing: Your lawyer can advocate for alternative sentencing options like attending a MO DWI treatment program, which can minimize court costs and potential jail time.
2. Explore Payment Options: Missouri courts might offer payment plans to help manage fines and court costs. Discuss these options with your lawyer and the court clerk.
3. Shop Around for Insurance: Compare quotes from different insurance companies after completing a DWI program or installing an IID. Demonstrating responsible behavior by completing programs might lead to lower premiums in the long run.
4. Seek Financial Assistance: If facing financial hardship, inquire about programs or legal aid options available in Missouri that may provide assistance with legal fees or court costs.

Remember: Early intervention is key. The sooner you seek legal guidance from a locally-based DWI attorney in MO, the better your chances of minimizing the financial and other consequences associated with a recent DWI conviction.