DWI Lawyer in Chesterfield, Missouri
Anthony Bretz is an experienced DWI Lawyer in Chesterfield, Missouri. With nearly 20 years representing clients in Chesterfield Municipal Court, he knows how to challenge the DWI charge and resulting license suspension or revocation.
Anthony Bretz believes you are innocent until proven guilty. He knows police make mistakes and he knows how to spot them. With Anthony Bretz you will get a lawyer in your corner who will fight for your rights.
Contact Bretz Legal Today For a Free Evaluation
Chesterfield, Missouri is a major western suburb of St. Louis and one of the largest municipalities in St. Louis County. With a population of 49,999 and more than 33 square miles of land and water combined, DWI enforcement in Chesterfield is active and consistent.
The city’s size, multiple access points to major highways (including I‑64/US‑40), and concentration of restaurants, bars, and event venues mean police maintain a strong presence.
A DWI charge here can have serious consequences.
If you have been arrested and charged with a DWI in the City of Chesterfield, you can fight the DWI and your license suspension or revocation. Mistakes made by the officer investigating suspicion of drunk driving can make it possible to overcome your DWI charge.
I work hard to defend my clients and we will fight for you. Contact me today for a free consultation.
Bretz Legal provides aggressive DWI Defense for those arrested and charged in Chesterfield Municipal Court.
CALL NOW: (314) 748-1770
DWI Administrative Hearing Lawyer in Chesterfield
In only 15 days after you provide the police a BAC result from a breath or blood test, the Director of Revenue will suspend your license for 90 days unless you act quickly and request an Administrative Hearing.
Most lawyers approach the Administrative Hearing with a defeated attitude. Those lawyers will simply submit the case "on the record", meaning the only record the Director's hearing officer will use is the police report itself. It is no surpise that the DOR wins nearly 95% of these hearings.
Anthony Bretz takes a different approach because he knows your driver's license is important to you. He attacks the hearing with the same intensity that he does the criminal case. Simply by subpoening the officer he can break down the basis of the arrest and highlight the officer's failures to help you keep your license.
By challenging the basis of the underlying stop, cross-examining the officer on how he administers and grades the Field Sobriety Tests, attacking the breathalyzer machine maintenance records or the testing procedures for the blood result, I can help you win your Administrative Hearing.
Why You Need a DWI Attorney in Chesterfield
A DWI in Chesterfield is a serious issue. Missouri law imposes strict penalties, including: license suspension, fines, ignition interlock requirements, and potential jail time.
Chesterfield’s municipal court and the St. Louis County courts handle a high volume of impaired‑driving cases, and prosecutors are accustomed to pursuing them aggressively. They often file charges for 1st DWI and 2nd DWI arrests.
You need a defense strategy that challenges: The legality of the traffic stop; the Field sobriety test administration; the Breathalyzer accuracy or Blood Test procedures; the Officer's observations and body‑cam/dash-cam footage; and procedural compliance with Missouri's DWI laws.
Missing key deadlines, like the 15‑day window to request an administrative hearing, can cost you your license before your case even begins.
A DWI charge in Chesterfield can impact your license, your job, and your future. You need an aggressive DWI defense built on experience, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of Missouri DWI law.
When you need a DWI lawyer in Chesterfield, Missouri, contact Bretz Legal, LLC for a free consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions About DWIs in Chesterfield, Missouri
Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to help you better understand your rights, the consequences you may face, and how a skilled attorney can assist.
What happens if I get a DWI in Chesterfield, Missouri?
If you're charged with DWI in Chesterfield, your case will likely be handled in Chesterfield Municipal Court or St. Louis County Circuit Court. You may face criminal penalties, including fines, jail time, and a criminal record, as well as administrative consequences like driver’s license suspension. A local DWI Lawyer like Anthony, can help you work through both the legal and license-related aspects of your case.
Will I lose my license after a DWI arrest?
Possibly. Missouri law allows for administrative suspension of your license, even before your court date, if you fail or refuse a chemical test. You must act quickly to request a hearing to contest this suspension, typically within 15 days of your arrest. This is an area where it’s essential to have an experienced DWI attorney in Chesterfield, Missouri by your side.
Can a DWI attorney help get my charges reduced or dismissed?
Yes. A skilled DWI lawyer can evaluate the evidence, challenge procedural errors, negotiate with prosecutors, and potentially reduce charges or secure a dismissal, especially if it’s your first offense or if your rights were violated during the arrest. It’s important to begin working with an attorney as soon as possible after your arrest.
How much does a DWI lawyer cost in Chesterfield?
Fees vary depending on the intricacy of your case and the attorney’s experience. Anthony Bretz offers free consultations and a transparent fee structure. While legal representation is an investment, it can save you from long-term financial and personal consequences. Always ask for a written fee agreement so you understand what services are included.
Is a first-time DWI a felony in Missouri?
No, a first-time DWI in Missouri is usually charged as a class B misdemeanor. However, the penalties can still be severe and have long-term consequences, so legal representation is highly recommended. A misdemeanor conviction can still result in jail time, fines, and a suspended license. If aggravating factors are present, the charges and penalties may be more serious, including felony charges under certain circumstances.