Missouri DWI versus Missouri DUI
Sometimes there is confusion between the use of the acronyms DWI and DUI in Missouri and Kansas. DWI stands for "Driving While Intoxicated". DUI stands for "Driving Under the Influence". They are really the same thing and are often used interchangeably. Missouri is technically a DWI, Driving While Intoxicated, state, because that is how the Missouri statute is written. Kansas is technically a DUI, Driving Under the Influence, state because that is how the Kansas statute reads. Either way, they are essentially the same thing. The term DUI seems to have gained greater acceptance in American language and so one will hear it used more often. Some jurisdictions, particularly city courts in Kansas, refer to these charges as OUI's, "Operating Under the Influence". Again, it is all the same and you will need the assistance of an experienced and knowledgeable attorney to protect you against any such charge.

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