Stone County, MO DWI-DUI Defense

Experienced, Local Representation from a Former Prosecutor

If you’ve been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) in Stone County, Missouri, your choice of legal representation can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. At Scrivner Law Firm, we bring over two decades of courtroom experience—and a deep knowledge of local legal procedures—to aggressively defend individuals accused of DUI across the Ozarks.

Led by Dayrell Scrivner, former Chief Assistant Prosecutor for Stone County, our firm provides clients with a strategic edge grounded in insight, relationships, and results.

Meet Your Advocate: Dayrell L. Scrivner

Attorney Dayrell Scrivner has spent his entire legal career navigating Missouri’s justice system. After graduating from the University of Missouri–Kansas City School of Law, he served as a prosecutor in Stone County for 16 years. There, he developed an insider’s perspective on how DUI cases are built, prosecuted, and resolved. Now, as a defense attorney, he uses that knowledge to shield the accused from overly aggressive prosecutions, harsh penalties, and unfair outcomes.

Because he’s worked on both sides of the courtroom, Dayrell understands not only what prosecutors look for, but also what judges prioritize when ruling on DUI cases in Stone County.

“My commitment transcends merely winning cases. I strive to make a tangible difference in my clients’ lives.” – Dayrell Scrivner

Understanding DUI Charges in Missouri

In Missouri, DUI is officially referred to as DWI (Driving While Intoxicated). You can be charged if:

• Your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, or
  
• You’re found to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol that impair your ability to drive safely.

Stone County law enforcement—including the Stone County Sheriff’s Office, Branson West Police Department, and Missouri State Highway Patrol—actively patrol and prosecute DUI offenses, especially in areas near Table Rock Lake, Kimberling City, and Reeds Spring.

Potential Penalties for DUI in Stone County

The consequences of a DWI conviction depend on whether it’s your first offense or part of a pattern:

First-Time DUI

• Up to 6 months in jail
  
• Fine of up to $1,000
  
• License suspension for 90 days
  
• Possibility of a restricted driving privilege

Second DUI

• Up to 1 year in jail
  
• Fine up to $2,000
  
• License revocation for 1 year
  
• Ignition interlock device (IID) requirement

Third DUI and Beyond

• Classified as a felony
  
• Prison time, high fines, and multi-year license revocation
  
• Mandatory alcohol treatment and supervision

The penalties grow steeper with each conviction, and certain aggravating factors—like having a child in the car, causing an accident, or refusing a breath test—can worsen your situation dramatically.

Why Local Knowledge Matters

Stone County’s courts, especially those in Galena, operate under specific expectations. The prosecuting attorneys, law enforcement officers, and judges are all familiar faces in this close-knit region. If your attorney isn’t equally familiar with the court system and local players, you could be at a significant disadvantage.

Dayrell Scrivner knows the people, procedures, and pressure points that define DUI cases in Stone County. Whether your case goes to trial or is resolved through negotiation, we have the relationships and insights necessary to pursue the best possible result.

Legal Strategies Tailored to Your Situation

No two DUI cases are the same. That’s why Scrivner Law Firm conducts a thorough case evaluation to determine the best course of action for each client. We may challenge:

• The legality of the traffic stop (Was there probable cause?)
  
• The reliability of breathalyzer equipment
  
• Officer conduct during field sobriety tests
  
• Chain of custody for blood samples
  
• Constitutional violations involving Miranda rights or due process

Depending on the facts, we might seek dismissal, reduced charges, or treatment-based alternatives to jail time.

First-Time Offender Programs & Deferred Prosecution

Stone County courts occasionally offer first-time offender programs for those without a criminal record. These may include:

• Alcohol or drug education classes
  
• Community service
  
• Monitoring or probation

If successfully completed, these programs may allow for charges to be reduced or even dismissed entirely. At Scrivner Law Firm, we advocate for these alternatives when appropriate and guide you through each step to ensure compliance.

Missouri Department of Revenue (DOR) Administrative Hearings

Most people don’t realize that a DUI arrest triggers two separate cases:

1. A criminal case in court
   
2. A civil case with the Missouri DOR regarding your driver’s license

You have only 15 days to request a hearing to challenge the suspension of your license. Failing to do so results in automatic suspension—even if your criminal charges are later dismissed. Scrivner Law Firm helps clients request and navigate these hearings, often leading to favorable outcomes that preserve your driving privileges.

DUI While Boating (BWI): Table Rock Lake Cases

Stone County is home to Table Rock Lake, a popular destination for boating and recreational activities. It’s also a hot spot for boating while intoxicated (BWI) arrests, especially in summer.

Attorney Scrivner also defends clients accused of BWI offenses. These cases involve Missouri Water Patrol officers and can carry similar penalties to road-based DUIs. If you’ve been charged with BWI on Table Rock Lake, you need a defense strategy tailored to this unique legal area.

Underage Drinking & Driving

Missouri has a zero-tolerance policy for drivers under the age of 21. A BAC of just 0.02%—often achievable with one drink—can lead to license suspension, fines, and a permanent criminal record for a minor. We help young clients and their families protect their future, seek reduced penalties, and avoid long-term consequences.

What Sets Scrivner Law Firm Apart?

Former Prosecutor Advantage

Dayrell Scrivner brings unmatched prosecutorial insight that benefits every stage of your case.

Deep Local Roots

We know Stone County law enforcement procedures, evidentiary quirks, and sentencing tendencies.

Personalized Communication

You’ll never feel like “just another case.” We’ll walk you through each step, clearly and respectfully.

Schedule a Confidential DUI Consultation

If you or a loved one has been charged with DUI in Stone County, now is the time to act. Whether you’re in Galena, Crane, Kimberling City, Blue Eye, Branson West, or anywhere in the county, Scrivner Law Firm is prepared to defend your rights and pursue the best resolution available.

We offer confidential consultations—call us today at (417) 699-0074 or use our online contact form to get started.