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If you have recently been arrested for a DWI, you are probably feeling anxious, confused, and unsure of what comes next. That is completely normal. The legal system can be intimidating, especially if this is your first time stepping into a courtroom. The good news is, you do not have to go through it alone.
At BK Law Group, we have helped thousands of clients navigate their first court appearance with confidence. Before we walk you through what to expect at your first court appearance for a DWI in Minnesota, it is important to understand how that appearance might take place.
Depending on your situation and the county where your case is filed, your arraignment may be scheduled in person at the courthouse or conducted remotely via Zoom. Many Minnesota courts now offer hybrid or fully remote options for arraignments, especially in misdemeanor-level DWI cases. These hearings tend to be brief, typically lasting between five and 15 minutes.
Even though the hearing may be brief, it is still important to dress appropriately. Business-casual or formal attire shows respect for the court and helps you make a strong first impression on the judge.
The arraignment marks the official start of your legal journey, and it is also known as your first court appearance. The judge will:
It is important to remember that this is not a trial, and you will not be found guilty or not guilty.
You are technically allowed to appear without a lawyer at your arraignment, but that does not mean it is a good idea. The decisions made at your first hearing can shape the entire course of your case.
Having a DWI attorney means someone is there to protect your rights, speak on your behalf, and ensure nothing gets overlooked. They can help prevent you from saying something that might hurt your case later, and provide peace of mind during an already overwhelming situation.
Once your plea is entered, usually “not guilty,” your case will move into the next phase. That might include a pre-trial hearing, a motion hearing, or a discovery exchange where both sides review evidence, such as:
This stage of the case is important. It is when your attorney can start challenging the traffic stop, questioning whether procedures were followed correctly, and assessing whether the state actually has a strong case. Depending on what we find, we may be able to negotiate a plea deal or push for a full dismissal of the charges.
It is the prosecutor’s job to prove that everything was done lawfully and that you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. It is your attorney’s job to question that narrative, expose weaknesses in the evidence, and make sure your rights were not violated at any point along the way.
In most DWI cases, yes. However, the timing and quality of that offer depend on several factors, such as your criminal history, your BAC level, whether you cooperated with testing, and whether any aggravating circumstances were present.
Failing to appear for your arraignment, whether it is in-person or via Zoom, can lead to serious consequences. The judge will typically issue a bench warrant for your arrest, and in some cases, you could be held in custody without bail until your next hearing.
If you realize you have missed your court date, contact your attorney or the court immediately. In some situations, your attorney may be able to file a motion to quash the warrant and schedule a new appearance, especially if your absence was due to a misunderstanding or legitimate emergency.
The best way to avoid these issues is to carefully read your court notice and verify the time, location, and whether the appearance is remote or in-person. When in doubt, ask your lawyer or call the court clerk.
In Minnesota, if you are held in custody after a DWI arrest, the law requires that the prosecutor bring your case before a judge within 36 hours, not including weekends or holidays. So, if you are arrested late Friday night, your first appearance may not happen until the following Monday or even Tuesday, depending on the court’s schedule.
This delay can be stressful, especially if you are waiting on updates or trying to contact family. But it is also a critical window for your legal team to begin working. If you have a private attorney, they may be able to contact the prosecutor early, review initial reports, or even argue for conditions of release ahead of the hearing.
If you do not have an attorney yet, BK Law Group has a team of experienced lawyers who focus exclusively on DWI cases across Minnesota. Whether you have an upcoming court date or just need guidance on your next steps, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you understand your options, protect your rights, and guide you through every step of the process.
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