⚠️ URGENT: You Have Only 15 Days to Act!
If you are charged with a DWI in Missouri, you have only 15 days to request an administrative hearing to avoid automatic license suspension or revocation. Missing this deadline means there is no second chance – your license will be suspended or revoked automatically.
Call (314) 753-1372 NowUnderstanding DWI/DUI Charges in Missouri
A DWI/DUI charge initiates both civil and criminal proceedings – two separate legal battles you must fight simultaneously. Understanding this dual-track system is crucial to protecting your driving privileges and avoiding criminal penalties.
DWI Charge Classifications
First Offense
Class B MisdemeanorUp to 6 months jail, $1,000 fine, 90-day license suspension
Second Offense
Class A MisdemeanorUp to 1 year jail, $2,000 fine, 1-year license suspension
Third Offense
Class E FelonyUp to 4 years prison, $10,000 fine, permanent license denial possible
The Two-Track Defense System
🏛️ Civil (License) Proceedings
Department of Revenue ActionAdministrative Suspensions and Revocations
- 15-day deadline to request administrative hearing
- Form 2385 serves as temporary driving privilege
- First offense: 90-day suspension (if unsuccessful)
- Limited Driving Privilege available after 30 days
- Second offense within 5 years: 1-year suspension
Refusal Cases
- Refusing breath/blood test = 1-year license revocation
- Only 15-day temporary driving privilege
- Form 4323 provided by arresting officer
- Attorney can file lawsuit and request Stay Order within 15 days
- Stay Order allows continued driving until court hearing
⚖️ Criminal Proceedings
Municipal or Circuit CourtCriminal Court Process
- Discovery of evidence from prosecution
- Plea offer negotiations
- Filing of defense motions
- Resolution through plea agreement or trial
Primary Defense Goals
- Prevent DWI/DUI conviction
- Prevent any jail time
- Minimize fines and penalties
- Protect employment and driving privileges
Proven DWI Defense Strategies
Eric Abramson strategizes each DWI case differently depending on the specific circumstances. Here are the key defense areas we examine in every case:
🚦 Initial Stop & Search
Constitutional Analysis: Did the officer have reasonable suspicion to make the initial traffic stop? Police cannot pull you over based on a “feeling” or because you “look suspicious.” They must point to specific facts supporting suspicion of a traffic or criminal offense.
Impact: If the stop violated your Fourth Amendment rights, ALL evidence obtained afterward (field sobriety tests, breathalyzer results) cannot be used against you.
🔬 Breathalyzer Device Issues
Technical Challenges: Was the breathalyzer properly calibrated before and after your test? Were proper protocols followed during administration? Device malfunctions can invalidate results.
Success Record: Eric has successfully excluded BAC test results from evidence in many cases due to technical and procedural violations.
🩸 Blood & Urine Test Defense
Drug DWI Cases: Driving under influence of marijuana, prescription medications, or other drugs. Blood tests must be taken by certified technician with proper warrant. Urine tests present unique contamination issues.
Evidence Issues: Blood can ferment and spoil if unrefrigerated. Chain of custody problems. Contamination during collection or storage.
🚶 Field Sobriety Test Challenges
Administration Errors: Did the officer properly demonstrate and explain each test? Was the horizontal gaze nystagmus test administered correctly? Were proper protocols followed?
Physical Limitations: Injuries, medical conditions, age, or physical limitations that prevent proper performance can invalidate test results.
📹 Video & Evidence Analysis
Video Review: Does the video clearly show the field sobriety tests? Why weren’t tests recorded? Did the officer follow necessary protocols?
Documentation Issues: Inconsistencies in police reports, missing evidence, or lack of video corroboration can create reasonable doubt.
Why Time is Critical in DWI Cases
DWI Arrest
Officer provides Form 2385 (over limit) or Form 4323 (refusal) – keep these documents safe!
Critical Action Window
Attorney must request administrative hearing or file lawsuit to prevent automatic license suspension/revocation.
Deadline Passes
If no action taken, license automatically suspended or revoked – no second chances!
Eric Abramson’s DWI Defense Advantages
🎯 Immediate Response
Available to take immediate action within the critical 15-day window to protect your driving privileges.
📋 Proven Track Record
Successfully excluded BAC tests from evidence in numerous cases. Multiple DWI charges reduced or dismissed.
🔍 Thorough Investigation
Detailed analysis of stop procedures, equipment calibration, officer training, and video evidence.
⚖️ Dual-Track Defense
Aggressive defense in both civil (license) and criminal proceedings to protect all your interests.
🚗 Limited Driving Privileges
Assistance obtaining Limited Driving Privileges when necessary to maintain employment and family obligations.
🏛️ Trial Experience
Extensive experience in both Municipal and Circuit Court DWI proceedings throughout Missouri.
Don’t Let a DWI Destroy Your Future
DWI charges can result in license suspension, jail time, massive fines, increased insurance rates, and employment consequences. With only 15 days to act on your license, immediate legal action is essential.
Contact Eric Abramson immediately for aggressive DWI defense that protects your driving privileges and fights for your freedom.
Get DWI Defense Now