Common DUI Defenses in Edina

Driving under the influence (DUI) in Minnesota comes with significant legal consequences. A DUI conviction could result in jail time, hefty fines, license suspension, and other serious complications. Depending on if you have a previous incident on your record, it can even be a felony offense.

With so much on the line, you should consult an experienced DUI attorney when charged with drunk driving. A conviction for driving under the influence could make it difficult for you to secure employment, housing, and can limit other opportunities. Contact our office to discuss common DUI defenses in Edina with an experienced lawyer.

DUI Laws in Minnesota

Like many other states, Minnesota takes a hard stance against drunk driving. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit for drivers is 0.08, but someone can still be arrested for DUI even if their BAC is lower. Penalties can vary depending on the severity of the offense, including the driver’s BAC level, prior offenses, and any aggravating factors, such as if a child was in the vehicle or a death resulted.

Potential penalties can range from:

• Fines
• Jail time
• License suspension
• Mandatory ignition interlock devices

In addition, drivers who refuse a breathalyzer or blood test can face enhanced penalties. A defense attorney could analyze the specifics of a case and discuss possible strategies to fight the charges in Edina.

Common Defenses to DUI Charges

Some common defense strategies displayed in Edina DUI cases include:

Field Sobriety or Chemical Tests

Field sobriety and chemical tests may be used as evidence in a DUI case. However, if the tests were not administered in compliance with established protocol, a lawyer could move to suppress the evidence. Likewise, flaws in the calibration or administration of a breathalyzer or blood test can be grounds to suppress the evidence.

Constitutional Violation

Another common defense strategy is challenging the officer’s conduct. When the police violate someone’s constitutional rights, a legal professional could move to keep the evidence out, negotiate a lesser offense, or have the charges dropped entirely.

Reasonable Suspicion

The police need to have reasonable suspicion to pull someone over for a DUI. By challenging the legality of the stop, the defense could force the prosecution to prove the officer had a reasonable suspicion you were under the influence, making it harder to convict.

These strategies are common because many DUI cases depend on evidence obtained during a traffic stop. Without that evidence, the prosecutor may have difficulty proving their case and be forced to negotiate a deal or dismiss the charges.

Ask an Edina DUI Attorney About Common Defense Strategies

If you were arrested for driving under the influence, you are probably weighing your options and the potential impact of the charges on your career and personal life. We understand how emotionally overwhelming a DUI charge can be. When you hire a well-practiced DUI lawyer from our firm to defend you, we could guide you through the common DUI defenses in Edina and advocate on your behalf for the best possible result under the circumstances.

Contact our office to discuss a defense strategy based on the facts and circumstances of your case.