DUI Law in Kansas City, KS
What Is a DUI?
DUI, which refers to driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, is a criminal offense that can lead to weighty consequences. Also known as DWI, the process of going to court to face either conviction or exoneration can change the course of your life forever.
Learn more about your DUI law defense options below, and then talk to a local attorney in Kansas City, Kansas who will help you in this delicate situation. You don’t have to stare down consequences alone. You can take wise steps today to protect your interests.
Possible Consequences of a Kansas City, Kansas
DUI Conviction
Where you live, the severity of the incident and your criminal record determine the sentencing for a DUI. The punishments can drastically increase if you have had previous DUIs, so be mindful of that. If this is your first DUI, do not go at it alone and risk costly mistakes. Get a Kansas City law firm on your side to fight for you and your rights.
Paying Fines
If convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs in Kansas City, Kansas, you can count on fines being a part of your sentencing. The Kansas Department of Transportation states that a first DUI in Kansas City carries a fine from $500 to $1000. A second offense goes up to $2500. If you are charged with a third DUI it will be classified as a felony.
However, other factors can drastically increase the amount you must pay, including:
- Any damage to property while driving under the influence
- If someone suffered injuries as a result of your intoxicated driving
- Cases that include child endangerment
- Any court costs associated with your case
Jail Time
Jail time is mandatory, even for first-time offenders in Kansas City. If this is your first DUI offense, you may only have to face a day or two in prison. But if you have previous convictions for DUIs, you can be sentenced to several months or years, depending on the nature of the crime. Know that some circumstances can add even more time in a cell, including injury to other people while driving under the influence.
Probation
If you do not face jail time, you will likely be on probation, with the sentencing judge determining the duration. You will pay monthly fees, and you cannot commit any more criminal offenses, including traffic violations. If you violate the terms of your probation, count on facing time behind bars.
Typical terms of probation after a DUI in Kansas City include alcohol treatment or substance abuse education. You will also be required to meet regularly with your probation officer, as well as abstain from any future drug or alcohol abuse. In addition, you may be subject to random drug and alcohol screenings at the behest of your probation officer. You can schedule an appointment with your officer at the probation offices of the Wyandotte County Courthouse.
Drug and Alcohol Education Program
Following a Kansas City DUI sentencing, the law states you must complete a drug and alcohol education program. This will teach you about the dangers of driving under the influence. These programs cost more fees besides the legal costs you already have to pay.
According to the Kansas State Legislature, any individual in Kansas City that is convicted of a DUI must undergo a mandatory evaluation process. Once this evaluation takes place you will either be recommended for treatment or education classes. The evaluation itself can cost between $150-$200. This is on top of the expenses of the classes or treatments that will be mandated by the court.
The education programs also include a DUI evaluation. An evaluator asks you questions about how alcohol and drugs affect your life. If they believe that you are dependent, you may have to enter a substance abuse treatment program.
Suspension or Loss of License
No matter where you may face a DUI conviction, you have to undergo a license suspension period, at the very least. If it is your first DUI, you may have a license suspension for a few months while you go through probation and the drug and alcohol education program.
If this is not your first DUI, you may have your license suspended for much longer, or you could have it taken from you permanently.
What Should You Do When Charged With a DUI in Kansas City, Kansas?
If you’re facing a felony DUI charge, you must take the following steps to protect yourself:
Step 1: Contact an Attorney Familiar With DUI Law
Immediately following your DUI arrest, you need to contact an experienced Kansas City DUI attorney. Your attorney can help prepare for your arraignment and prepare a defense to vindicate yourself or reduce the sentencing.
Step 2: Learn About Your Local DUI Laws
Kansas City, Kansas has unique laws for DUI or DWI charges. Your lawyer will work with you to help you better understand your state’s laws on driving while intoxicated. It is critical to understand what charges you face and the potential outcomes of your case.
Step 3: Request a DMV Hearing
You or your attorney should request a hearing as soon as possible following your arrest. In Kansas City, Kansas you only have so much time to ask for a DMV hearing to keep your license until your court appearance. If you do not request a hearing, prepare for a license suspension.
If you have received a DUI in Kansas City, you must file a request for a reinstatement hearing within 14 days of the arrest. This must be filed with the Kansas State Department of Revenue. This request must be in writing, however, an electronic facsimile such as a fax will also be accepted for review. The fine to reinstate your license can vary depending on circumstances but is generally around $100.
Step 4: Prepare for Court Appearance
You and your attorney will prepare for your appearance and arraignment in Kansas City. If you plead “not guilty,” your DUI defense attorney represents you in court, and a judge and jury oversee the DUI law case.
Step 5: Receive Sentencing or Exoneration
You will either be “not guilty” of the charges brought against you and walk free, or you will receive sentencing for a guilty verdict.
Work with an Experienced Local DUI Lawyer in Kansas City, Kansas
Should you ever find yourself charged with a DUI, you need to work with an experienced Kansas City lawyer who can stand up for you in court. You cannot clear your name of the charges or reduce the consequences without help. Your life and future depend on having great legal representation during your DUI case. Contact an attorney near you today. We can even help you connect with legal help across Kansas state lines.
Submit a request online or call us today at (866) 345-6784 to get in touch with an experienced lawyer in your area!