Driving While intoxicated (DWI) and Driving under the influence (DUI) are the offenses of driving, operating, or being in control of a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs (including recreational drugs and those prescribed by physicians), to a level that renders the driver incapable of operating a motor vehicle safely. A DWI is the same thing as a DUI in Missouri. The two terms are used interchangeably. The criminal offense may not involve actual driving of the vehicle, but rather may broadly include being physically "in control" of a car while intoxicated or impaired, even if the person charged is not in the act of driving but operating the vehicle in some manner to cause it to function. For example, individuals found in the driver's seat of a car while intoxicated/impaired, even while parked, may be charged with DUI because if they are in control of the vehicle and causing it to function. You can be guilty of DUI even if the substance causing impairment is prescribed by a physician for a legitimate medical condition, this includes marijuana even though it is mostly now legal in Missouri.
Even for a first offense, an offender may face up to six months in jail and a driver’s license suspension as well as other possible consequences such as a criminal record, fines, probation conditions, higher insurance premiums etc. Much of the evidence in a DWI/DUI case is technical and scientific and therefore an experienced attorney may be able to find defenses in your case.
If you’ve been accused of or charged with DWI or DUI, MacPherson Law Center LLC is dedicated to providing knowledgeable and experienced representation to protect your legal rights.
