Do Not Just Plead Guilty to DWI

Hurrying up to just pled guilty to a DWI may be tempting to save time, costs, and worry to just “get it over with.” Many people facing a DWI charge for the first time make this mistake and simply accept the consequences that come with pleading guilty to a DWI. However, even if you blew over a .08%, it may be possible to get the charged dismissed or reduced to a non-alcohol driving violation with the help of an experienced DWI attorney like myself. In the long run, rushing to plead guilty may actually cost you more money. There are significant consequences to pleading guilty that can stay with you forever:

  • You may have a criminal record – which will come up with any background checks and could keep you from getting a job;
  • Your insurance premiums may rise;
  • Your driver’s license may be suspended;
  • You may have to go to jail; and
  • If you are ever convicted of a DWI again, even if it is in another state, you could face significantly enhanced penalties.

If you simply plead guilty to the offense, the judge can easily impose the harshest penalties possible. You need an experienced DWI attorney fighting for you to make sure you leave with the best possible result under the circumstances. This is especially true in Missouri, where prosecutors and judges may allow for charges to be “pleaded down” - meaning having an attorney on your side could significantly lower your charge and penalties that come with it.

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Updated on March 23rd, 2020