DUI Without a License in Minnesota

In Minnesota, as with other states, driving is considered a privilege that can be revoked in certain circumstances that typically involve a violation of traffic laws. Drivers are required to have a valid driver’s license and are prohibited from driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Failing to follow these laws can result in significant financial consequences and the potential of jail time. If you have been charged with a DUI without a license in Minnesota, it is important to speak with an experienced DUI defense attorney who could protect your rights during the criminal process and also help you determine the best way to defend yourself from the charge.

What Happens If You Are Convicted of DUI Without a License?

Driving without a license and driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs are two different offenses, each carrying its own penalties in Minnesota. It is possible for a person to get charged and convicted of both.

DUI Penalties

When a person is charged for the first time with a DUI, they typically face an administrative suspension of their driver’s license, fines, and potentially jail time. These consequences can be harsher if there are aggravating factors, such as a previous history of alcohol-related offenses, an extremely high blood alcohol content, or having a child under 16 in the vehicle when the offense occurred.

Penalties for Driving Without a Valid License

Driving without a license is usually a misdemeanor, carrying the potential of 90 days in jail and fines of up to $1,000 for the first offense. Getting caught operating a motor vehicle without a license a second or subsequent time can increase the jail sentence to up to a year and associated fines to up to $3,000.

Let us advocate on your behalf to avoid these consequences and potentially secure a case dismissal.

How a Lawyer Could Help

Although both DUI and driving without a license are commonly charged as misdemeanors in Minnesota, that does not mean the consequences are light. A conviction for either of these penalties results in negative driving records that can make it difficult to obtain insurance, and criminal records that can make other life events, such as finding a home or employment, more challenging. The fines imposed can cost thousands of dollars, and there can be other challenges, such as having one’s driver’s license revoked.

An experienced lawyer may be able to help reduce or even eliminate the consequences involved in this charge. While the most certain defense strategy is to have the case dismissed, there may be other options depending on the facts of the case, including negotiating a plea bargain or pleading not guilty and presenting evidence in court to cast doubt on the government’s case. Your lawyer and legal team could investigate all parts of the case and listen to your desired outcome in order to determine the best defense.

Defend Your DUI Without a License Charge in Minnesota – Call Today

DUI and driving without a license are both serious charges that can have negative impacts on your finances, freedom, and even your reputation. If you have been charged with these offenses, the best time to speak with a lawyer is as soon as possible. Let us help you understand the potential consequences you face and help you determine how to defend yourself against these charges. Contact us today to learn more about navigating a DUI without a license in Minnesota.