Repeating criminal offenses of any kind carry stiffer penalties, and the same is true of DUI citations. In Missouri, each consecutive charge carries stiffer penalties that include a range of imprisonment terms, fines, and other consequences. This is partly because repeated instances of driving under the influence of drugs creates a nuisance to law enforcement and a safety hazard to the public. Here are some of the penalties associated with multiple DUI convictions.

First Offense

Even your first DUI conviction carries stiff penalties, which include a sentence of six months in county jail. Additionally, you may be required to pay a fine of up to $1,000. Your ability to drive will also be affected. First, you will face a 30-day license suspension. After that, you may also be subject to a 60-day license restriction. In some situations, you may have to allow an ignition interlock device to be attached to your vehicle, so your driving can be monitored as you drive on the restricted license.

Second Offense

The second time you’re facing DWI charges, you’ll likely serve a jail term of up to one full year. The fine will also increase, and you may have to pay up to $2,000. Your driver’s license will be revoked for a five-year period. When you do get your license back, your vehicle will have to be equipped with an ignition interlock device for at least six months.

Third Offense 

You may require the assistance of a criminal defense attorney if you’re facing DUI charges for a third offense. If you have been charged with driving under the influence three or more times, you’ll be facing felony charges, which means up to four years in prison. You may be forced to pay a fine of up to $10,000. You will also lose your license for up to 10 years. Once the revocation has expired and you’re able to drive, you will still have to equip your vehicle with an ignition interlock device for six months.

Minors Who Drive Drunk

Driving drunk is defined differently for minors than it is for adults in Missouri. While an adult is considered impaired with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, the threshold is much lower for minors. A minor with a BAC of 0.02% or higher can be charged and may face the same penalties as an adult. However, a judge may decide to reduce jail terms for minors in exchange for attending substance abuse counseling and serving probation. In that case, the minor may also have to submit to random drug and alcohol testing.

Coyne Cundiff & Hillemann PC is a law firm in Lake St Louis, MO, that offers comprehensive legal services. In addition to DUI and DWI defense, they also practice criminal, personal injury, and family law. The firm employs three full-time attorneys to ensure their clients’ needs are met. To learn more about the firm, visit their website. Call (636) 561-5599 to set up an appointment for an initial consultation.