FAQ: WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE ARRESTED FOR A DWI IN THE STATE OF MISSOURI

If you’ve been arrested for a DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) in Missouri, you’re probably feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and unsure of what happens next. Missouri’s DWI laws are strict, and the consequences can be severe — from losing your driver’s license to facing jail time.

The good news? With the right legal help, you can protect your rights and your future. Below, Speeding Ticket KC answers the five most common questions drivers in Kansas City and across Missouri ask after a DWI arrest.

1. What Should I Do Immediately After a DWI Arrest in Missouri?

First things first — stay calm and don’t argue with the police. Anything you say or do can be used against you later. If you’re arrested, exercise your right to remain silent and politely ask to speak with an attorney.

You’ll likely be taken to the police station for booking, where officers will ask you to take a breath, blood, or urine test to determine your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Refusing the test triggers Missouri’s “implied consent” law, meaning your license will automatically be suspended — even if you’re never convicted.

As soon as possible, contact an experienced Kansas City DWI lawyer to start protecting your driving privileges and building your defense. A skilled Missouri attorney can request a hearing with the Missouri Department of Revenue within 15 days to fight your license suspension.

2. What Are the Penalties for a DWI in Missouri?

Missouri’s penalties vary depending on your BAC level, prior offenses, and whether anyone was injured. For most first-time offenders:

• Up to six months in jail
• A $500 fine
• A 30-day license suspension followed by a 60-day restricted license
• Possible installation of an ignition interlock device (IID)

Repeat offenses lead to harsher penalties — including longer jail sentences, higher fines, and multi-year license revocations.

But remember: an arrest is not the same as a conviction. A seasoned DWI attorney in Kansas City may be able to challenge the traffic stop, breath test results, or field sobriety procedures to get your charges reduced or dismissed.

3. Will I Lose My Driver’s License Right Away?

Not immediately — but the clock is ticking. After your arrest, the officer likely gave you a Notice of Suspension or Revocation. You have just 15 days to request an administrative hearing to contest it.

If you miss this deadline, your license will automatically be suspended. That’s why contacting a traffic and DWI defense lawyer right away is critical. Speeding Ticket KC can help file the necessary paperwork, represent you at your hearing, and work to keep you on the road legally.

4. Should I Hire a DWI Lawyer or Just Plead Guilty?

Never plead guilty without consulting a lawyer first. Missouri’s DWI laws are complex, and prosecutors are trained to secure convictions — not help you find leniency.

An experienced Kansas City DWI attorney can evaluate the evidence, challenge the legality of your stop or arrest, and often negotiate for reduced penalties or alternative programs. In some cases, you may even be eligible for suspended sentences or diversion programs that keep a DWI off your record.

5. How Can Speeding Ticket KC Help Me Fight My DWI Charge?

At Speeding Ticket KC, we specialize in Missouri DWI defense and understand how stressful these cases can be. Our legal team will:

• Review your case and identify procedural or evidentiary errors
• Represent you in both criminal and administrative hearings
• Fight to protect your driver’s license and minimize penalties
• Guide you through every step of the process with honesty and experience

A DWI arrest doesn’t have to ruin your future. With the right defense, you can often reduce the consequences — or even walk away with your record clean.

CALL SPEEDING TICKET KC TODAY

If you’ve been charged with a DWI in Kansas City or anywhere in Missouri, don’t wait. Call Speeding Ticket KC today for a case evaluation with an affordable Kansas City DWI lawyer who knows how to fight for your rights. Your freedom, license, and reputation are worth protecting and we’re ready to help.

Don’t let a simple speeding ticket turn into a long-term headache. At Speeding Ticket KC, our knowledgeable Kansas City traffic lawyers help drivers fight tickets quickly, affordably, and effectively. A single violation can raise your insurance rates and add points to your license — but it doesn’t have to. We know how to negotiate with Missouri courts and prosecutors to reduce or dismiss your ticket altogether. Whether it’s speeding, careless driving, or failure to yield, our experienced attorneys can help you avoid costly penalties.

With Speeding Ticket KC, you get fast, local service from lawyers who know Kansas City traffic laws inside and out. Contact us today for a free consultation and protect your record before it’s too late.

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 criminal 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.