Common DUI Defenses in Minnesota

Following an arrest for a DUI, you may be able to successfully challenge these charges with the right defense. There are certain defenses that apply to different situations, and a knowledgeable DUI attorney could help you find the right defense strategy for your specific case.

Learn more about the common DUI defenses in Minnesota and meet with our legal team today to discuss your options.

What Warrants a DUI Charge?

In Minnesota and across the U.S., it is illegal to operate a vehicle if a driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, even if they do not show signs of impairment. Individuals can also be charged with a DUI if they exhibit signs of impairment on the road, even if their BAC is below this limit.

To avoid the potential repercussions of these charges, including fines, suspended or revoked licenses, and jail/prison time, individuals facing DUI charges in Minnesota should work with a fearless attorney to identify the most effective defense for their case.

Common DUI Defense Strategies

There are several common defenses that could help challenge DUI charges in Minnesota.

A Lack of Reasonable Suspicion

In some cases, individuals may be able to prove that an arresting officer lacked the reasonable suspicion to warrant stopping them. Subsequently, any evidence involved in the case could be rendered inadmissible.

Equipment Errors

While officers often rely on either breathalyzers or blood tests to measure BAC levels, these tests are not always accurate. For example, a breathalyzer or blood test could yield inaccurate readings due to improper administration. In some cases, breathalyzers may not be properly calibrated to provide an accurate reading.

Improper Field Sobriety Testing

In addition to breathalyzers and blood tests, officers frequently conduct field sobriety tests to gauge a person’s impairment. Sometimes, certain factors can result in poor performance for participants, including inclement weather like high winds and heavy rain, uneven surfaces, and a participant’s physical medical condition.

Medical Reasons for Signs of Impairment

Another defense could involve showing how a driver’s medical condition or medication caused officers to mistake a person’s condition for impairment. For example, low blood sugar in people with diabetes and hypoglycemia could cause slurred speech and disorientation. Epilepsy may also impair coordination and motor skills. Meanwhile, certain medications like antihistamines and muscle relaxants could inadvertently result in dizziness, drowsiness, and other side effects, especially when mixed with certain foods or other medications.

Depending on the specifics of your case, your lawyer may use multiple defense strategies to achieve the best possible outcome.

How a DUI Defense Attorney Could Help

If a person is arrested for a DUI offense in Minnesota, an attorney could be the key to building a strong defense and helping them avoid a potential conviction. An experienced lawyer could evaluate an individual’s case, collect supporting evidence, and present strong arguments for case dismissal.

They could identify any issues with the arrest using arrest records, surveillance footage at the scene of arrest, medical records, and other relevant evidence.

Contact a Minnesota Attorney Today To Learn About Common DUI Defenses

With the help of the right lawyer by your side, you could leverage one of the common DUI defenses in Minnesota to avoid a DUI/DWI charge. Our legal team has plenty of experience handling cases like yours and could help you secure the best possible outcome.

Consult an attorney today to find out what options you have following a DUI arrest.