Kansas and Missouri Drunk Driving Laws

DUI / DWI basic information

Whether you were arrested in Kansas or Missouri, whether you were pulled over by a city cop or a state trooper, all DUI / DWI matters present criminal charges, potentially significant financial costs, and possible license suspension. At the Burmaster Law Firm in Overland Park, Kansas, we address all of these issues and work hard to help you keep your license, keep your job, and keep you out of jail.

To learn about your rights and legal options in a drinking and driving matter, please contact our Kansas City drunk driving defense lawyer, Paul Burmaster.

Two separate matters
Most DUI defendants do not know that it is possible to beat the charge in criminal court and still lose your license. It is important to understand that every DUI / DWI charges result in two completely separate proceedings, each with its own legal issues and potential costs:

• Criminal charges - prosecuted in local criminal courts; conviction may result in fines, mandatory suspensions, jail time, alcohol treatment;
• License suspension - addressed in administrative license hearings; must request a hearing; an attorney may represent you. You have 10 days to request a license hearing in Kansas; you generally have 15 days to request a first license hearing in Missouri, unless you refused to take a breath test. In Missouri refusal cases, you may have 30 days to appeal.

Financial impact
If either a DUI conviction or a drivers license suspension appears on your record, your motorists insurance premiums will likely increase. Rates can double or even triple depending on your insurance company, your current rates, your age, the type of car you drive, and other factors.

A skilled DUI / DWI defense attorney works to keep license suspensions and drunk driving convictions off your record. Drivers with vigorous legal defense may save hundreds or even thousands of dollars in insurance costs over the few years following their drunk driving incident.

We handle drunk driving matters involving DUI accidents, multiple offenses, and prescription medication. We help drivers avoid the cost of high-risk insurance.

Do you have questions about Kansas or Missouri drunk driving law? Call or e-mail our Overland Park drunk driving defense law firm to arrange a free initial consultation. Contact our Kansas City DWI defense attorney, Paul Burmaster.