DWI Lawyer in Maryland Heights, MO
DWI Lawyer in Maryland Heights, MO. Facing allegations of driving while intoxicated (DWI) can be a frightening experience, especially considering the likely repercussions for Maryland Heights, MO drivers. Beyond the immediate consequences of a minimum 60-day suspension of your driving privileges, hefty fines, elevated insurance premiums, and enduring points on your license, the aftermath extends to enduring damage to your reputation within your Maryland Heights community or your professional sphere. Additionally, international travel prospects may be constrained, with countries like Canada prohibiting entry for people with a DWI conviction on their record.
If you find yourself in the challenging situation of facing DWI charges after being pulled over in the Maryland Heights, MO area, it’s critical to enlist the support of a highly skilled DWI lawyer in Maryland Heights. Waste no time; call Combs Waterkotte immediately at (314) 900-HELP or through our online contact form to initiate the process of crafting a robust defense for your case. Take advantage of our attorneys’ expertise through a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss the details of your situation and your next steps.
Article Summary
A DWI arrest in the Maryland Heights, MO area can upend your life—leading to license suspension, costly fines, a permanent record, and even jail. But being charged doesn’t mean you’re guilty. With a skilled legal team like Combs Waterkotte, you can fight back. This article breaks down everything you need to know after a DWI stop in or around Maryland Heights, MO, from legal rights during a traffic stop to challenging chemical tests and understanding the penalties for first and repeat offenses. Our veteran DWI lawyers in Maryland Heights, MO build smart, aggressive defenses designed to protect your future—and help you move forward with confidence.
Legal Videos
DWI Stop Advice – Always Have Your Paperwork Ready
DWI/DUI Stop Advice and Tips. Attorneys Christopher Combs and Steven Waterkotte provide a real-time walkthrough of the proper actions to take—and crucial mistakes to avoid—during a DWI/DUI …
(Making Of) DWI Behind the Scenes Video – Bonus Footage
Before we could shoot our behind-the-scenes video, there was… this. A quick glimpse at the setup, the laughs, and everything that didn’t quite make the final cut. While this is a fun video …
Behind the Scenes of a DWI/DUI Traffic Stop (Step-by-Step Walkthrough)
Missouri criminal defense and DWI attorneys Christopher Combs and Steven Waterkotte provide a real-time walkthrough of the proper actions to take—and crucial mistakes to avoid—during a DWI/DUI …
What Is the Process of Going to Court for a DWI?
What happens when you go to court for a DWI or DUI charge? Christopher Combs and Steven Waterkotte of Combs Waterkotte outline what to expect when going to court for a DWI or DUI.
Long Term Consequences of a DWI
What are the long-term consequences of a DWI? Christopher Combs and Steven Waterkotte of Combs Waterkotte discuss the potential long-term consequences of a DWI or DUI conviction on your …
What to Do If You Are Pulled Over for DWI in Missouri
What actions should you take if you are pulled over for suspicion of a DWI in Missouri? Christopher Combs and Steven Waterkotte of Combs Waterkotte discuss how to handle the difficult situation of …
DWI Stop Advice – Always Have Your Paperwork Ready
DWI/DUI Stop Advice and Tips. Attorneys Christopher Combs and Steven Waterkotte provide a real-time walkthrough of the proper actions to take—and crucial mistakes to avoid—during a DWI/DUI …
(Making Of) DWI Behind the Scenes Video – Bonus Footage
Before we could shoot our behind-the-scenes video, there was… this. A quick glimpse at the setup, the laughs, and everything that didn’t quite make the final cut. While this is a fun video …
Behind the Scenes of a DWI/DUI Traffic Stop (Step-by-Step Walkthrough)
Missouri criminal defense and DWI attorneys Christopher Combs and Steven Waterkotte provide a real-time walkthrough of the proper actions to take—and crucial mistakes to avoid—during a DWI/DUI …
What Is the Process of Going to Court for a DWI?
What happens when you go to court for a DWI or DUI charge? Christopher Combs and Steven Waterkotte of Combs Waterkotte outline what to expect when going to court for a DWI or DUI.
Long Term Consequences of a DWI
What are the long-term consequences of a DWI? Christopher Combs and Steven Waterkotte of Combs Waterkotte discuss the potential long-term consequences of a DWI or DUI conviction on your …
What to Do If You Are Pulled Over for DWI in Missouri
What actions should you take if you are pulled over for suspicion of a DWI in Missouri? Christopher Combs and Steven Waterkotte of Combs Waterkotte discuss how to handle the difficult situation of …
Have You Been Pulled Over Anywhere in the Maryland Heights, MO Area?
Having an aggressive and effective DWI lawyer on your Maryland Heights, MO case can — and often does — make the difference between pleading guilty to DWI and suffering all its consequences, and having charges reduced or even dismissed. At Combs Waterkotte, our experienced Maryland Heights, MO DWI attorneys are devoted advocates for all our Maryland Heights, MO area DWI clients. No matter if this is your first encounter with law enforcement or if you are dealing with DWI charges again, our firm is committed to providing your Maryland Heights, MO DWI case with the attention it deserves. We formulate a legal strategy tailored specifically to securing the best possible results for you.
Our unparalleled track record of success in defending Maryland Heights residents accused of DWI speaks volumes, and our dedication extends to ensuring total client satisfaction in every aspect of our service. When facing DWI charges near Maryland Heights, MO, prioritize making (314) 900-HELP your initial contact. We provide free case reviews and, at Combs Waterkotte, we are devoted to working with you, accommodating any financial challenges you may be facing, to mount a robust defense against your DWI charges in Maryland Heights, MO.
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Wondering what happens after your DWI/DUI arrest? The experienced Combs Waterkotte attorneys have the answers.
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Contact the skilled Combs Waterkotte DWI/DUI lawyers now at (314) 900-HELP to get started on your defense.
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Do You Need a DWI Lawyer in Maryland Heights, MO?
If you’ve been arrested for DWI in the Maryland Heights, MO area, don’t face the legal system alone. A skilled DWI lawyer can be the difference between a conviction and a second chance. From protecting your driving privileges to challenging weak evidence, the right legal team in Maryland Heights, MO helps you take control of your case.
{How Combs Waterkotte Protects You in Maryland Heights, MO
- Investigate whether your traffic stop and arrest followed the law
- Challenge breathalyzer or blood test accuracy
- Identify constitutional violations (lack of probable cause)
- Represent you in both criminal court and administrative hearing
What Should I Do After I’m Pulled Over For DWI in Maryland Heights, MO?
After being pulled over by a police officer suspecting impairment due to alcohol or drugs in the Maryland Heights, MO area, it’s natural to feel nervous. Being stopped by law enforcement for any moving violation is something that can trigger a “fight or flight” response, and this is only increased when you’re facing accusations of impaired driving. With extensive experience handling numerous Maryland Heights, MO-area DWI cases, our firm suggests the following course of action if you find yourself pulled over for DWI:
- Pull over safely. Safely pull your vehicle to the side of the road. Use your turn signal, and choose a well-lit safe area. If you are on a road with a shoulder, pull over there, or find a nearby parking lot. Try to avoid parking on grass.
- Stay calm and cooperative. Remain calm and composed. Being hostile to a police officer will only make them more likely to search your car or subject you to increased scrutiny. Being polite goes a long way when being pulled over for DWI in the Maryland Heights, MO area.
- Avoid self-incrimination. Remember: you have the right to remain silent. Provide the officer your license and insurance/registration, but refrain from offering additional information. Law enforcement is seeking any excuse to continue an investigation and arrest you, so do not give them any. You can always choose not to answer potentially incriminating questions, like “Have you been drinking?” by saying that you prefer not to respond without legal advice.
- Do not take a portable breath test. Refrain from taking a portable breath test. While Missouri enforces implied consent laws that lead to a one-year license revocation for refusing a breathalyzer or blood test, this is applicable only after you are formally arrested for DWI. Portable breathalyzers are often deemed unreliable and are primarily used to establish probable cause for an arrest.
- Call a lawyer if you are arrested. Your conversation with an attorney is entirely confidential and privileged under Missouri law. Getting advice from an experienced Maryland Heights, MO DWI lawyer about whether you should take a breath test at the station, addressing any issues during the stop, or clarifying other concerns can be the crucial difference between facing months of license suspension and potentially having your case dismissed.
Being charged with driving under the influence carries severe legal repercussions in Maryland Heights, MO, encompassing fines, the suspension of your driver’s license, and the possibility of jail time. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of the potential consequences is crucial, and a Combs Waterkotte lawyer is ready to provide detailed insights and more during a free consultation. DWI laws can differ across jurisdictions, even in smaller areas neighboring Maryland Heights, MO, emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance from an attorney well-versed in the local legal landscape for personalized advice tailored to your unique circumstancesDriving under the influence has serious legal consequences in Maryland Heights, MO, including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time. Having a firm grasp of the potential outcomes is vital, and a Combs Waterkotte attorney will provide that and more during a free consultation. Laws regarding DWI vary by jurisdiction, even small areas neighboring Maryland Heights, MO, so it’s advisable to consult with an attorney familiar with the laws in your area for specific advice tailored to your circumstances.
St. Louis County Resources
Below are quick links to important websites that may assist you with your legal matters in St. Louis County and Missouri.
Fighting Both Sides Of Your DWI Case in Maryland Heights, MO
DWI cases in Missouri have two components: a criminal side and a civil side. The criminal punishments for DWI in Missouri, as you likely know, are serious. Even a first DWI offense could lead to the following consequences under Missouri law, as it is categorized as a class B misdemeanor:
- 8 points on your driving record
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Up to a $500 fine
- A 90-day drivers’ license suspension, the last 60 of which can be reduced to a restricted driving privilege (RDP) permit
- Required participation in a drug/alcohol treatment program known as Substance Awareness Traffic Offender Program (SATOP)
- Required purchase of a high-risk auto insurance plan, also known as a Certificate of Financial Responsibility or an SR-22
Our experienced Maryland Heights, MO legal team makes sure that the citizens of Maryland Heights, MO receive the best possible legal presentation, no matter the circumstance. After all, good people often find themselves in bad situations. In addition to DWI defense in Maryland Heights, MO, our attorneys are experienced in many types of cases, like:
- Weapon Crime Defense Lawyer
- DWI Lawyer With Payment Plans
- Criminal Defense Lawyer with Payment Plans
Can a DWI Charge Be Reduced in Maryland Heights, MO?
Yes, many Maryland Heights, MO residents charged with DWI can get those charges reduced, depending on the facts of the case and the strength of their legal defense. At Combs Waterkotte, we’ve successfully reduced DWI charges in Maryland Heights, MO and across Missouri to lesser offenses like reckless driving or a traffic violation when:
- You’ve never been in trouble before
- Your BAC was close to the .08% limit
- No one was hurt and nothing was damaged in Maryland Heights, MO
- Police violated protocols during the stop or testing
- Your defense effectively challenges the evidence
What Can a Lawyer Do to Help?
With a skilled DWI defense attorney in Maryland Heights, MO on your side, we may be able to:
- Negotiate a plea to a lesser charge
- Advocating for diversion programs or alcohol treatment alternatives
- Challenge improper searches or roadside procedures
- Point to mitigating details that support leniency
Why it Matters
A reduced charge in Maryland Heights, MO can help you:
- Avoid jail time
- Keep your driver’s license or reduce the suspension period
- Protects your permanent record
- Maintain employment, especially for CDL or professional license holders
- Minimizes insurance hikes
What Happens If This Isn’t My First DWI in Maryland Heights, MO?
If this is your second DWI arrest in Maryland Heights, MO, be prepared for the prospect of dealing with class A misdemeanor charges, encompassing possible penalties like:
- No more than one year in jail (any jail sentence for a second DWI must include a minimum of 10 days of “shock time” in jail before possible suspension of sentence or probation)
- Maximum two years probation
- Fines of no more than $1,000
- The suspension of your driving privileges, which ranges from one to five years
- You must install and maintain, at your own expense, a breath alcohol ignition interlock device (BAIID). This prevents someone from starting a vehicle if their BAC is over a certain limit.
- Continuous, verifiable BAC monitoring (either by regular breath tests or a wearable device)
- Mandatory participation in a drug/alcohol treatment program
- Required purchase of a high-risk auto insurance plan (SR-22)
The administrative aspect in a Maryland Heights, MO DWI case relates to your driving privileges, and how the Missouri Department of Revenue deals with the revocation or suspension of your license. Most Maryland Heights, MO-area drivers do not know that they have the option to appeal the automatic suspension or revocation, provided the appeal is submitted within 15 days of your initial arrest in Maryland Heights, MO.
When you enlist the impeccable services of the Maryland Heights, MO DWI lawyers at Combs Waterkotte, rest assured that our firm will tackle both components of your DWI case as soon as possible and work hard to minimize the effect a DWI arrest has on your life. We will gather evidence, look at the facts of your case, pinpoint potential holes in the Maryland Heights police report or arrest, and craft a strategy that is built for success. Call us right now at (314) 900-HELP or reach out to us online.
Contact a Maryland Heights, MO DWI Lawyer Who Wins Today at Combs Waterkotte
If you’ve recently faced arrest and DWI charges in Maryland Heights, MO, you likely understand the urgency surrounding your case. The sooner you can get a skilled Maryland Heights, MO DWI lawyer to examine documents, amass evidence, and build your case, the higher the likelihood that the repercussions of your DWI arrest in Maryland Heights will be significantly reduced, if not eliminated.
Combs Waterkotte has helped hundreds of Maryland Heights, MO-area residents from all walks of life take on DWI charges. Our firm blends top-notch legal expertise and assertive advocacy with a commitment to personalized service and communication that is unmatched among DWI law firms near Maryland Heights, MO and throughout Missouri. Our DWI lawyers assure you that, regardless of the time, location, or situation, they will swiftly answer your call to discuss your case or any other legal concerns. This is part of our commitment to complete client satisfaction, as affirmed by our satisfied clients.
After you have been pulled over and arrested for DWI in the Maryland Heights, MO area, make (314) 900-HELP your first call for a free initial consultation. Trust the experienced Maryland Heights, MO DWI attorneys at Combs Waterkotte to diligently handle your case.
