St. Louis DWI lawyer and DUI attorney protecting your license

Do not let a DWI define your future

Protecting your rights, license, and freedom after a drunk driving charge

A DWI arrest in Missouri is stressful and confusing. You may be facing a license suspension, fines, court dates, and insurance problems. The Law Offices of Stephen A. Zarky brings years of focused DWI experience to cases in St. Louis County, the City of St. Louis, and nearby courts in St. Charles, Jefferson, and Franklin. As a DUI attorney in St. Louis who has handled many DWI cases, Stephen maps out the immediate steps to protect your ability to drive, prepares the defense, and keeps you informed at every stage. Many people start with a free consultation to review deadlines and options within the first days after arrest.

Police officer holding a breathalyzer near a driver in a car.

Missouri DWI laws and penalties

What a first or repeat offense can mean

 In Missouri, a first DWI is usually charged as a misdemeanor and can bring jail time, fines, and a license suspension that often begins with a 30 day period of no driving followed by 60 days of restricted privileges if eligible. Penalties increase with prior offenses, high BAC results, or an accident with injuries. Refusing a breath test triggers a separate one year revocation under implied consent rules. These consequences can affect jobs in Clayton, school in Midtown, or family routines in South County, so early action matters.

How Stephen fights DWI charges

Targeted challenges from stop to trial

01.

Challenging The Stop And Arrest

Stephen examines why you were stopped, how field sobriety tests were administered, and whether there was probable cause for arrest. Unlawful stops can lead to dismissed evidence.

02.

Attacking Breath And Blood Tests

Breath testing requires proper maintenance and certified operators. Blood draws require reliable chains of custody and accurate analysis. Stephen requests records and pursues retesting where appropriate.

03.

Negotiating Reduced Charges

For eligible first offenders, it may be possible to reduce a DWI to a lesser offense or secure an outcome that protects your record. Stephen focuses on results that keep you working and driving.

04.

Representing You At The License Hearing

You have a short window to request an administrative hearing. Stephen handles the hearing and coordinates strategy with the criminal case to protect your privileges.

Drivers who also received citations for speeding or improper lane use often ask about traffic violations that accompany a DWI and how those tickets affect points and insurance.

special situations

When the stakes are even higher

Black and white illustration of a pair of handcuffs connected by a chain.

Felony DWI And Injury Cases

Serious injury, prior convictions, or a third offense can escalate a case to felony level with potential prison time. Stephen builds mitigation, explores treatment options, and prepares for trial when that path is best.

Bottle and capsule, medical or pharmacy icon.

Prescription Or Drug-Related DWI

When impairment is alleged from medication or controlled substances, toxicology and medical records become central. Many people review broader criminal defense strategy alongside these cases to understand how motions and trial settings work in our courts.

Answers people need after a DWI arrest

Clear guidance before you talk to an adjuster or officer

Traffic jam on a multi-lane road; red car in foreground.
  • How do I get my license back after a DWI arrest?

    You have a limited time to request a hearing. If eligible, you may seek restricted privileges so you can drive for work and family needs while the case is pending. Acting quickly is essential.

  • Will a DWI go on my criminal record?

    A DWI is a criminal charge. Avoiding a conviction through dismissal, reduction, or an outcome that keeps a conviction off your record can protect jobs, licensing, and travel.

  • Can I refuse the breath test in Missouri?

    You can refuse, but refusal triggers a separate license revocation that Stephen can contest. The choice affects both the criminal case and driving privileges, so get legal advice as soon as possible.

If alcohol was not involved and the accusation centers on prescriptions or other substances, Stephen can also address related drug crimes issues that sometimes arise from traffic stops in the region.

Get back on the road

Time is critical to saving your license

Deadlines start immediately after an arrest. The Law Offices of Stephen A. Zarky will file what is needed to protect your driving privileges, challenge weak evidence, and position your case for the best outcome. Call 314-852-5995 or reach out online for fast help and a path forward.