You may have one DWI on your record and think, “I’ll never make that mistake again.” However, a one-time slip-up or lapse in judgement could mean that the police are pulling you over on your way home from the bar or a party and before you know it, you are facing DWI charges once again.
The penalties for a second DWI
The penalties for a first-time DWI are significant, and include fines and jail time, along with the suspension of your driver’s license. However, a person in St. Charles County who is convicted of DWI for a second time can expect a harsher sentence. In addition to fines, a judge may sentence the with a 30-day minimum jail term, along with a one-year revocation of their driver’s license. Plus, if it is a person’s second DWI conviction within five years of the first one, that person may face a five-year driver’s license denial.
These penalties can have a major impact on your life. After all, you may have a family to care for and you may have a job that you’ve spent years working in. Jail time means time away from both these things, and even after you’re released it is difficult to get to work or your children to school when you are unable to drive. Moreover, you may be stuck with a fine that hits you hard in the pocketbook. Simply put, a second DWI can cost you more than just money — it could potentially cost you your job and have a significant effect on your finances and your family life.
Legal help is available
It’s important to seek the advice of an attorney if you are facing DWI charges for the second time. Those facing their second DWI need to develop a defense strategy that protects their driving privileges and keeps them out of jail. St. Peters DWI defense lawyers are professional and knowledgeable, and they can be trusted to understand how multiple DWI convictions can affect your life, all while providing practical advice that allows you to make informed decisions.
