Facing Charges? Act Fast. Call Me At 314-492-8840

15 Day Warning — You may have only 15 days from your arrest to challenge the suspension of your driver’s license!

314-492-8840
Protecting Your Rights And Freedom

Clayton Aggravated DWI Charge Attorney With Years Of Experience In Law

An aggravated driving under the influence or while intoxicated (DUI/DWI) charge in Missouri can heavily impact your future and restrict your freedom. I can be your DWI defense lawyer who will represent you in Clayton courts.

My name is Carl J. Civella, and I dedicate my law firm, The Civella Law Firm, to helping individuals in St. Louis County and St. Charles County who are facing aggravated DUI charges. For more than a quarter century, I have become knowledgeable of Missouri’s strict DWI laws and its legal proceedings. Despite my experience, I keep myself updated with the latest changes to diversify my strategies in defending you.

Factors That Make A DUI/DWI Charge More Serious

While any enhanced drunk driving may be an aggravated DWI, Missouri law categorizes elevated charges based on statutory offender tiers and specific aggravating factors:

  • Prior record: The number of prior convictions can increase your offense level.
  • Presence of a minor: Driving while intoxicated with a minor can trigger an aggravated offense.
  • Injury or death caused to others: An injury’s severity, death or a repeat offense causing death can result in varying offense elevations.

Because aggravating factors increase your offense level, it also affects the consequences you may face.

Aggravated DWI Penalties You May Face For An Aggravated Charge

Missouri law has outlined penalties for each offense class. Depending on the escalated charge, the courts use this as a basis when determining your appropriate sentencing.

For instance, if you have one prior DWI conviction, you can face a Class A misdemeanor charge for committing a second DWI with a minor present. This carries a penalty of up to one year in county jail. In contrast, having four prior convictions or causing serious physical injury to another person counts as a Class C Felony, punishable by three to 10 years in prison.

Consequences also exist beyond sentences. Felony DWI convictions are generally ineligible for record expungement. This means you do not remove your conviction from your record, which can affect your employment and housing options. Additionally, you face long-term driver’s license revocation, a permanent ban on firearm possession under state and federal law, and a temporary loss of voting rights while incarcerated or under parole.

Why Having Legal Representation Is Critical

The municipal courts in St. Charles County that are heavy DWI arrest areas are: City of St. Peters, City of O’Fallon and the City of St. Charles. Having legal counsel matters because your DWI defense attorney can help you understand what is at stake. They are also here to introduce applicable options.

With my experience as a prosecutor, I anticipate the opposing side’s actions. This insider knowledge has helped me achieve numerous positive outcomes in representing my clients. From challenging the prosecution’s evidence to questioning prior offenses, I will find a way to protect your rights, freedom and driving privileges.

Take Action With Guidance Of An Aggravated DUI Defense Lawyer

Prompt legal action is crucial when facing an aggravated DWI charge in Missouri. When you work with me, I will build a defense in time for your trial. Call me at 314-492-8840 or fill out an online contact form on my website. I represent clients throughout St. Louis and St. Charles counties, including before municipal courts in the City of St. Peters, the City of O’Fallon, the City of St. Charles and the surrounding areas.