DUI Without a License in Edina

Being charged with driving under the influence (DUI) is not something to take lightly. These cases become even more serious if you were driving without a valid license at the time of your arrest. In addition to the penalties associated with the underlying drunk driving charge, you could also face additional consequences related to driving while under a suspension, or for driving without any kind of driver’s license.

If you are charged with DUI without a license in Edina, do not delay in taking legal action. Reach out to a seasoned DUI attorney as soon as possible to get started on your defense.

Reasons for Suspension or Revocation

A person’s driver’s license may be suspended or revoked for several reasons. These could include, but are not limited to:

• Previous convictions of driving under the influence
• Refusing breath testing under implied consent laws
• Failing to pay child support, court fees, or other fines
• Underage drinking and driving charges
• Traffic-related offenses

This list demonstrates the types of offenses that commonly strip a person of their driver’s license. If a person in Edina gets behind the wheel while intoxicated and without a license, they can face penalties for the DUI and for driving under suspension.

DUI Offenses Without a License

Chapter 169A of the Minnesota Statutes establishes the state’s DUI laws. Under these laws, a person could face DUI charges of the first, second, third, or fourth degrees with different penalties for each. The drunk driving case itself can result in thousands of dollars in fines, loss of the right to drive, and potential jail time.

If a person operates their motor vehicle while their license is suspended, this is a misdemeanor crime that carries up to a $1,000 fine and a maximum of ninety days in jail. Depending on the nature of the crime, additional penalties may be imposed.

If an individual’s driver’s license was revoked due to a threat to public safety, they could be charged with a gross misdemeanor. These charges carry up to $3,000 in fines and up to one year in jail. Because the charges for driving under the influence without a license can be so severe, it is best to work with an Edina attorney who understands the nature of these cases and could work to build a robust defense.

Other Potential Penalties

When a person in Edina is charged with a DUI on top of the fact they were operating the vehicle without a license, they often face penalties in addition to fines and jail time. These could greatly complicate one’s life and ability to get around.

License Plate Impoundments and “Whiskey Plates”

Many drivers charged with a DUI without a license will have their license plates impounded, which means that the plates are removed from the car and destroyed. Individuals may also be required to use special plates that designates them as an alleged drunk driver. These plates are often referred to as “whiskey plates.”

Violations of Ignition Interlock

Some drivers are granted special limited rights to drive when they use an ignition interlock device (IID). An IID prevents a driver from starting their car until they blow into the device, which measures blood alcohol concentration.

Speak with a Dedicated Edina Attorney About Your DUI Without a License

It is easy to feel lost after a DUI charge. You could be facing harsh fines and even jail time. Fortunately, you are not without defense options. If you are facing charges for a DUI without a license in Edina, get in touch with a skilled lawyer right away. Our knowledgeable legal team could assess your case and help you build a defense against your charges. Schedule a consultation today to get started.