Under Missouri law, if people incur too many DWI's their driver's licenses will be revoked and the Director of Revenue will deny issuing them a license for five (5) or ten (10) years. Generally, if you incur two driving while intoxicated (DWI) convictions within five (5) years, you will lose your license to a five (5) year denial. Likewise, generally, if you incur more than two DWI convictions over your lifetime, you will lose your license to a ten (10) year denial. In light of these significant possible penalties, if you are charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI) and you have prior alcohol-related offenses, it is extremely important to consult with an attorney because you may be at risk of losing your license for a significant period of time.
Fortunately there are ways to still drive legally while serving a license denial. For five (5) year denials, drivers can petition the court for a limited driving privilege (or hardship license) if they have served at least two (2) years of the denial, and generally, courts will grant the limited driving privilege. For ten (10) year denials, drivers can petition the court for a limited driving privilege if they have served at least (3) years of the denial, and generally, courts will grant the privilege. The privilege allows drivers to operate a motor vehicle for limited purposes, such as driving to work, school, or seeking treatment.
At The Hammon Law Firm, our attorney understands the impact a license denial can have on individuals and their friends and family. We know Missouri's laws related to license suspensions, revocations, and denials, and we make every effort possible to return you driving privileges to you. If you are charged with a DWI or are serving a five or ten year denial, contact us and we will apply the law to the facts of your case and advise you accordingly. Most importantly, we will work diligently to achieve the best possible outcome for you.