Defending a Federal DWI Case in Missouri | St. Louis DWI Defense Lawyer

Defending a Federal DWI Case in Missouri

Most DWI cases in Missouri are prosecuted in Missouri state or municipal courts. However, if the arrest takes place on federally owned land such as national parks or the St. Louis Gateway Arch grounds (including the parking garage), the cases are prosecuted in federal court. A federal DWI case is where the United States of America is prosecuting the case as opposed to the state of Missouri or Illinois or a municipality such as Chesterfield or Arnold.

Although federal DWI cases are similar in many ways to a state DWI case, there are, however, many differences as well. The laws applied in a federal DWI case depend on where the arrest took place. Under the Code of Federal Regulations, drunk driving is a Class B misdemeanor. The punishment for a Class B misdemeanor can include up to six months in federal prison and a fine of up to $5,000.00. A defendant can also be placed on probation for a period of up to five years.

Unlike state DWI cases, refusing to submit to a chemical test is a misdemeanor under the Code of Federal Regulations and carries a penalty of up to six months in a federal prison, a fine, or both.

In Missouri, federal DWI charges most commonly occur in the Laclede’s Landing parking garage, in or around the Arch grounds and parking garage. If you or a loved one has been charged with a federal DWI, it is imperative that you seek out an experienced federal DWI and criminal defense attorney. The attorneys at Henderson & Waterkotte, P.C. are experienced in defending federal DWI charges and are available 24.7. Call us today to schedule a free consultation.