FAQ: WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER MY FIRST DUI IN MISSOURI?

Getting arrested for your first DUI in Missouri is overwhelming. The flashing lights, the handcuffs, the breath test and then the sinking feeling that this is about to follow you for years. Understanding what happens next can make the difference between a manageable outcome and a long-term problem.

At Speeding Ticket KC, our experienced Missouri DWI attorneys want every first-time DUI offender in Kansas City to know what they need to know to navigate the often confusing Missouri legal system. Call us today. We can help..

1. Will I lose my license after a first DUI in Missouri?

Yes — unless you act fast. Missouri’s DUI law triggers two separate actions:

• The criminal case (handled in court), and
• The administrative license suspension (handled by the Missouri Department of Revenue).

After your arrest, you have just 15 days to request an Administrative Hearing to challenge the suspension. Miss that deadline, and your license will automatically be suspended — even before you step foot in a courtroom.

A skilled Kansas City traffic attorney can file this challenge immediately and often keep you driving legally throughout the process.

2. Will I go to jail for my first DUI?

In Missouri, a first DUI is a Class B misdemeanor, which technically carries up to 6 months in jail. But most first-time offenders don’t serve jail time unless there were aggravating factors like:

• An accident
• A minor in the car
• A very high BAC
• Prior alcohol-related issues

In most cases, a skilled Kansas City DUI lawyer can negotiate probation or alternative sentencing that avoids jail entirely.

3. How much will a first DUI cost me?

A typical first DUI can cost anywhere from $1,500–$7,500 (est.) once you factor in:

• Fines and court costs
• Attorney fees
• SR-22 insurance
• Treatment programs
• License reinstatement fees
• Possible ignition interlock device

That’s why hiring an attorney is an investment — a strong defense can prevent long-term costs and protect your driving record and insurance.

4. Will I need to install an ignition interlock device (IID)?

Sometimes — but not always. Missouri may require an IID if:

• Your BAC was high (0.15 or above)
• You refused the breath test
• You need a restricted driving privilege (RDP) after suspension

Your lawyer can request alternatives or help you qualify for a hardship license that lets you drive to work, school, and medical appointments.

5. What happens at my first court date for a DUI?

Your first appearance is the arraignment — you’re formally told your charges and enter a plea. Your attorney will usually enter a Not Guilty plea on your behalf, then request police reports, body-cam video, breathalyzer maintenance logs, and any dash-cam footage.

From there, your lawyer looks for defenses like:

• Illegal traffic stop
• Faulty breathalyzer equipment
• Improper field sobriety testing
• Lack of probable cause

Weaknesses in the stop or testing can lead to suppression of evidence, reduced charges, or even full dismissal.

6. Will a first DUI stay on my record?

Yes — unless you fight it. Missouri allows expungement of a first DUI after 10 years, but only if you meet every requirement and have no other alcohol-related convictions.

But here’s the key:

If your lawyer gets the charge amended to a lesser offense, it avoids the DUI conviction entirely and protects your criminal and driving record right now.

7. How can a Kansas City DUI lawyer help with a first offense?

A first DUI is the best time to hire a lawyer because you have the most leverage. A skilled attorney can:

• Challenge the traffic stop
• Fight the breathalyzer or field sobriety tests
• Prevent or shorten your license suspension
• Negotiate reduced charges
• Help you avoid jail time
• Protect your insurance rates
• Keep your record as clean as possible

At Speeding Ticket KC, we handle DUI cases throughout Kansas City and Missouri — fighting aggressively to keep first-time mistakes from becoming lifelong problems.

HIRE THE RIGHT KANSAS CITY TRAFFIC DEFENSE LAWYER FOR YOUR CASE

Do not plead guilty. Do not assume the evidence is airtight. Do not wait for your court date. A first DUI is stressful — but with the right attorney, you can protect your license, your record, and your future.

Call Speeding Ticket KC today for a free DUI case evaluation.

We move fast. We fight hard. And we know exactly how to defend first-time DUI cases in Missouri.

At Speeding Ticket KC, we make traffic defense simple. Our affordable Kansas City traffic lawyers have helped thousands of drivers across Missouri save money, protect their licenses, and avoid insurance hikes.

We handle everything — from speeding and red-light tickets to reckless driving and license suspensions. With years of experience in Missouri traffic courts, we know how to get results fast. You shouldn’t have to take off work or stress over paperwork — we do the heavy lifting for you.

Contact Speeding Ticket KC today to speak with an experienced traffic ticket lawyer who can help you fight back and move forward.

Cities we serve: Adrian, Archie, Bates City, Belton, Blue Springs, Buckner, Butler, Cameron, Claycomo, Cleveland,  Drexel, Fairview,  Ferrelview,  Gladstone, Grain Valley, Grandview, Greenwood, Houston Lake, Independence, Kansas City Missouri, Kearney, , Knob Noster, Lake Lotawana, Lake Tapawingo, Lake Waukomis, Lake Winnebago, Lawson, Lee’s Summit, Liberty, North Kansas City, Oak Grove, Oakview,  Parkville, Peculiar,, Platte City, Platte Woods, Plattsburg, Pleasant Hill,  Raymore, Raytown, Riverside, Smithville, Sugar Creek, Tracy,  Warrensberg, Weatherby Lake, and Weston.

Statewide: Missouri State Highway Patrol and Sheriff Counties we serve: Bates County, Cass County, Clay County, Jackson County, Platte County, Ray County.

Contact our experienced Kansas City traffic defense lawyers near me in Missouri and let us help begin building your defense. Let us help.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Always consult qualified counsel regarding your unique situation.