Bloomington DWI Driver’s License Suspension

One of the lesser-known consequences for being pulled over, charged, or convicted of driving while impaired (DWI) by alcohol or drugs is losing your driver’s license. The revocation or suspension can occur at different times during the legal process, which is inconvenient but something we can fight.

Much depends on whether the DWI charge is your first or a subsequent one. Other ramifications include losing your commercial driver’s license (CDL), which is a life-altering action if you make your living driving anything from a taxi to a cross-country rig.

If you are facing a Bloomington DWI driver’s license suspension, our defense lawyers could explain what to expect and work on your behalf for the best outcome. Call BK Law Group today to speak with a seasoned DWI attorney.

Suspensions and Revocations in the Criminal System

When a police officer pulls a driver over because they suspect impairment, a field sobriety test can be administered along with a breath analysis. If the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08 percent or higher, the officer is entitled under Minnesota law to confiscate the driver’s license on the spot.

After a license is seized, the driver is entitled to a seven-day temporary license to arrange alternate transportation or appeal the seizure. In limited circumstances, the driver may be permitted to drive for essential tasks, like work or school.

For a first DWI, revocation can last 90 days or even longer. If there are previous DWIs, refusals to take a sobriety test, or very high BAC levels in the past, the suspension period is extended. If a DWI case is in court, the judge can impose additional restrictions after a conviction, including longer license suspension periods, jail time, and substance abuse counseling.

A second offense usually leads to a year-long license revocation and the introduction of an interlock device, which stops drivers from operating a vehicle if the device detects alcohol in the driver’s system. These charges are misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors until four or more offenses, which are felonies.

If a license is not permanently revoked, the court can do so and sentence an offender to long-term rehabilitation or strict ignition interlock protocols. Drivers also face community service for a felony conviction. Driver’s license suspension is standard after a DWI, and a Bloomington defense attorney should be consulted to limit the impact on a client’s life.

Administrative License Revocation

Minnesota employs a two-pronged license suspension program. Besides criminal suspension, a DWI can trigger an administrative action by the Department of Public Safety (DPS). The DPS is the agency that issues a seven-day temporary license after a driver has a confirmed BAC of at least 0.08 percent or refuses to participate in the chemical test.

The temporary license allows drivers to operate a motor vehicle until it expires so that other remedies can be implemented before the actual suspension. This suspension is generally 90 days for a first-time offender but can be more with a high BAC or a refusal. Drivers can be required to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program. However, they can also request a review or appeal the Bloomington administrative DWI driver’s license suspension with the help of a knowledgeable lawyer.

Restore a Driver’s License After a DWI Suspension in Bloomington

Our defense attorneys are committed to assisting you after your driver’s license is suspended or revoked because of a DWI arrest or pending conviction. We can file an appeal, especially if you are a first-time offender, which could mean your license is reinstated quickly.

Similarly, if you agree to participate in the Ignition Interlock Program, you could be eligible for limited driving privileges during the revocation period. When you are embroiled in a DWI case, we have potential defenses and solutions to get the unpleasantness behind you. After a Bloomington DWI driver’s license suspension, call our experienced lawyers, and we will get to work for you.