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Getting arrested for a DWI in Minnesota isn’t just a legal issue, but it’s a financial one too. How much does a DWI lawyer cost in Minnesota? The cost of hiring a defense attorney for a DWI case can vary widely depending on the circumstances of your case, as well as the complexity of the charges and the level of experience the attorney brings to the table.
Legal fees are only part of the equation, because a DWI conviction can carry long-lasting consequences like court fines, license reinstatement fees, insurance premium increases, mandatory treatment programs, and ignition interlock installation plus monthly monitoring fees, just to name a few.
Since every attorney structures their services a little differently, it’s always a good idea to ask what’s included in the fee upfront. That way, there are no surprises down the road, and you can better compare your options with both cost and coverage.
Most private criminal defense attorneys in Minnesota charge an hourly rate between $150 and $400 per hour. Flat fees for DWI typically range from $2,000 to $10,000. This price fluctuates based on the attorney’s experience and how complex the case is. If your case involves aggravating factors like prior offenses, test refusal, high blood alcohol concentration (BAC), or if it goes to trial, the fee will usually be higher.
In some cases, payment plans may be available, but they often come with a higher overall cost. Typically, you’ll be required to put down a percentage upfront, followed by monthly payments until the remaining balance is paid in full.
If you can’t afford to hire a private attorney, you may be eligible for a court-appointed public defender. In Minnesota, public defenders are only available to individuals who meet certain financial qualifications and are facing the possibility of jail time.
Their services aren’t completely free. Most counties require a one-time co-pay, usually around $100, and in some cases, the court may order a partial reimbursement based on income and ability to pay.
While both private attorneys and public defenders are licensed professionals who can represent you in court, there are important differences that can impact the outcome of your case.
Public defenders in Minnesota are often highly capable, but they typically manage a large caseload, which can limit the time and attention they’re able to give each individual client. That can affect everything from how quickly they respond to questions to how thoroughly they investigate your case or challenge the evidence against you.
More importantly, public defenders are appointed to handle only the criminal side of a DWI case. They don’t represent you in the civil aspect, such as challenging the administrative license revocation through the implied consent process or appearing at a driver’s license hearing.
These proceedings are separate from the criminal court system but carry serious consequences, like losing your driving privileges for months or longer.
Some private attorneys, including those here at BK Law Group, do include some civil representation as a part of their flat fee. That means your lawyer can file a petition to challenge the license revocation, represent you in court for both the criminal and civil sides, and ensure your defense strategy is coordinated from day one.
This matters because in Minnesota, you only have a 60-day window to challenge your revocation notice and request a hearing to fight the loss of your license. If no challenge is filed within that time period, your license will remain revoked. That may force you to get an ignition interlock device, apply for a limited driving permit, or simply accept the full suspension, regardless of what happens in the criminal case.
A DWI can affect your job, your ability to drive, your financial stability, and even your future opportunities. Having the same attorney throughout ensures better communication, stronger preparation, and a more cohesive legal plan.
The attorney you choose plays a major role in how this chapter of your life unfolds. While hiring a private attorney may seem like a big upfront cost, the long-term benefits often outweigh the expense.
A strong defense can mean the difference between jail time and probation, between a criminal record and a reduced charge, between losing your license for a year and keeping your driving privileges, or even between being charged and having your case dismissed.
A good attorney can help you avoid unnecessary penalties, negotiate for a better outcome, and guide you through every requirement from court dates and paperwork to treatment options and related procedures.
At BK Law Group, we know how stressful and uncertain a DWI charge can be. You should not have to worry about how much a DWI lawyer in Minnesota will cost for your case. That’s why we offer experienced, results-driven legal representation tailored to your situation. From start to finish, our team is here to protect your rights, defend your future, and guide you every step of the way.
If you’ve been charged with a DWI in Minnesota, don’t wait to get the help you need. Call us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward putting this behind you with confidence.
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