When you need a defense lawyer for a possible charge – don’t wait, call Craig Divine today! If you have been arrested for suspicion of DUI/DWI due to a chemical refusal, you need an attorney who knows how to fight for your rights and protect your driving privileges. A chemical refusal occurs when a driver declines a sobriety test when stopped on suspicion of driving under the influence or driving while intoxicated. When you’re accused of any crime – especially if it goes to trial – you need a skilled criminal defense lawyer with trial experience in Kansas City to enforce your constitutional right to a fair trial.
Laws on impaired driving have become stricter over the years. Under Missouri law, when you are arrested for a driving while intoxicated offense, you may refuse to submit to the field sobriety test. However, doing so will result in your Missouri driving privilege being revoked for one year. This is known as a “Chemical Revocation”. Kansas law also states that refusal to take a field sobriety test results in an automatic one-year suspension of driving privileges. When you hear the phrase “Driving While Intoxicated” you may think it refers only to drunk driving. It is true that most DWI charges stem from people who choose to drink too much and drive a vehicle. As we exit the holiday season and enter into the new year, lots of people are consuming more alcohol than they normally do.
No matter which side of the state line you are on, it is essential to have a criminal defense lawyer in Kansas City when facing this situation. Craig Divine is licensed to practice in both Missouri and Kansas and has years of experience defending DWI/DUI cases in the greater Kansas City Metro as well as Jackson, Johnson, Wyandotte, Clay, and Platte counties. Proper representation can mean the difference between keeping or losing your driving privileges. Having a defense attorney representing you is the best way to ensure that you understand the charges against you, what recourse you may have to reduce or eliminate charges, and the fines and penalties that may accrue if you are convicted. In both Kansas and Missouri, the legal blood alcohol concentration limit is .08. It is surprising how quickly someone can reach this limit, sometimes without even feeling impaired. Also, many drivers are shocked to learn that they can be charged with such an offense for being under the influence of prescription medications! Being able to drive is vitally important for most people. Losing your license can impact your ability to hold a job, complete your education or attend to your family’s needs.
Of course, the best way to avoid these problems is not to drive while impaired! Always designate a driver when drinking and consult your doctor or pharmacist on the possible side effects of any medications you may be taking. If the worst happens and you need a criminal defense attorney in Kansas City due to a chemical refusal, DUI or DWI case, contact Craig Divine at (816) 474-2240 for a free consultation. We serve clients in the greater Kansas City Metro, Jackson, Johnson, Wyandotte, Clay, and Platte counties. Our team will handle your case with respect and compassion, while mounting the most vigorous defense possible.