Gibbons Law Firm: Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) FAQs

Driving while intoxicated is such a serious mistake. You could be making a life-changing mistake that's putting yourself and others in danger. You should always designate a sober driver no matter what the case. If you do find yourself needing a DWI lawyer at the Lake of the Ozarks, you should contact Gibbons Law Firm in Lake Ozark. Your first consultation is free. Our local Lake Ozark Law Firm can be reached at (573) 348-2211. In the meantime, keep reading this week's blog for the answers to a few frequently asked questions regarding driving while intoxicated.

Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) FAQs

Q: If asked to take a field sobriety test, do you legally have to do so?

A: Technically, if you are pulled over and the police officer asks you to participate in a field sobriety test, which may involve actions such as:

The HGN test, which involves following the officer's finger with your eyes.
The one-leg stand test, which is pretty self-explanatory.
The walk-and-turn test, which requires you to walk and turn with one foot and come back.

You can refuse to take the field sobriety test, however, if you do appear to be intoxicated on the scene, the police officer may have grounds to arrest you still. Be aware of this.

Q: Are DWI checkpoints legal in the state of Missouri?

A: Let's define what a DWI checkpoint is just to make sure we are all on the same page. You may find these on your route home from a large event that involved many people drinking alcohol. It's an organized stop where law enforcement officers stop everyone who passes by to see if there's any sign of the driver being intoxicated. Some people may feel that an officer doesn't have probable cause to stop everyone, but checkpoints are in fact legal.

Q: If you already have multiple DWIs and get pulled over for drinking while intoxicated, what happens?

A: Your punishment may be more severe than a first-time offender, that much is obvious, but it's more important than ever that you get an experienced DWI attorney in Mid-Missouri to walk you through your options. Come up with a plan and get all your questions answered.

Gibbons Law Firm Can Help!

Driving while intoxicated is a serious matter and should not be taken lightly. If you are facing a driving while intoxicated charge, you should really consider getting an experienced criminal defense attorney is Mid-MO as soon as possible. Gibbons Law Firm represents clients in all types of felony and misdemeanor cases. Roger Gibbons has successfully tried hundreds of criminal cases of all types. We are committed to providing clients with criminal defense services that will ensure their rights are protected and they are treated fairly. Find out more about how we can assist you by contacting our Firm and making an appointment today.

Remember, your initial consultation with Gibbons Law Firm is always free.