What To Expect From A DWI Arrest In The State Of Missouri Written on January 3, 2010, by Internet Garner.
Driving while intoxicated is a crime that is frowned upon in every state- but it is particularly punished in Missouri. One will find little sympathy when convicted, and if one is lucky, learning from such a foolish mistake is possible through the classes and fines paid in restitution.
Some seem to think that a first conviction of a DWI isn’t serious- which is why many first-timers claim they did not think twice before getting in a vehicle while intoxicated. The truth is that laws in Missouri are very strict, and politicians are coming down hard on the offenders. One can expect heavy fines, potential jail time, and mandatory community service for the offender caught driving while drunk.
Being caught the second time just proves to the judicial system that one has not learned his or her lesson. Penalties will be more severe, with higher fines and even a jail sentence looming over the head of the repeat offender. The second DUI will look poorly on one’s criminal history, making it hard to find a job among businesses that offer competitive wages.
A persistent offender is one that has racked up three or more DWI arrests. The minimum sentence is 10 days in jail, with the option to do 60 days of community service to instead be put on probation. You will also have to retake the written and physical driving test in order to get your license back due to losing your license for an extended period of time.
SATOP is a program that must be completed no matter how many DWI arrests you have. SATOP stands for the Substance Abuse Traffic Offender Program, and costs a couple hundred dollars to take as a class. Before your license is handed back, you must complete this class on your own time at selected dates each month. SATOP can be a 2-day course or a more intensive course for troubled alcoholics.
As an offender, you must file for SR-22 insurance. This type of insurance will recognize that you are a high risk driver. You will have to pay for a filing fee and also be subject to higher fees each month. Some insurance companies will not continue issuing insurance to those who get a DWI, while others will simply jack up the price each month to cover their risks in insuring your vehicle.
Closing Comments
Even if you do make a mistake and get a DUI, know that you can always change and be respected for it. Do your community service, pay your debts to society, and in time you will hopefully learn the real dangers of driving while intoxicated.
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