Aiden Belville
2 months ago
Facing a DWI charge can be stressful. A conviction may bring serious legal, financial, and personal consequences, including jail time, fines, license revocation, and a permanent mark on your record. A Minnesota DWI lawyer could provide the guidance and representation you need during this time.
At BK Law Group, we understand that no two cases are alike. A defense attorney could help you evaluate your legal options and build a strategy that aligns with your circumstances. If you are unsure of what steps to take after an arrest, do not face the process alone.
While DUI (driving under the influence) and DWI (driving while impaired) are often used interchangeably, the law classifies them under a single statute known as Minnesota Statutes § 169A.20. This law prohibits operating or being in physical control of a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. A DWI attorney in Minnesota could help you understand the charges that may apply if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was 0.08 percent or higher, or if you showed signs of impaired driving.
Penalties become more severe when certain aggravating factors are present, including:
If you are facing any of these circumstances, an attorney could help you pursue the most favorable resolution.
The consequences of a DWI conviction depend largely on your prior record and any aggravating factors involved. A first-time offense is generally charged as a misdemeanor, yet it can still result in up to 90 days in jail, a $1,000 fine, a 90-day license suspension, and the potential requirement to complete a treatment program.
If you are convicted of a second or third offense within 10 years, the charge may be elevated to a gross misdemeanor. In those cases, penalties often include longer jail sentences and extended license revocation periods. A fourth or subsequent offense is treated as a felony, carrying significantly harsher consequences. These may include up to seven years in prison, fines as high as $14,000, permanent loss of driving privileges, and even vehicle forfeiture.
In many situations, drivers are also required to install an ignition interlock device before regaining limited driving privileges. An attorney in Minnesota could assess whether procedural issues, such as an improper traffic stop or faulty BAC testing, may form part of your DWI defense.
A common question for individuals facing these charges is: What happens next? Following an arrest, you may receive a Notice and Order of Revocation that affects your driving privileges immediately. However, you have the right to challenge this revocation by requesting an administrative hearing within 60 days.
During this time, it is important to protect your rights by:
A lawyer could guide you through each step of the legal process, helping you address the challenges of a DWI case while ensuring your rights are protected in Minnesota.
If you are dealing with a DWI charge, now is the time to act. These offenses carry serious legal and personal consequences, but working with a skilled Minnesota DWI lawyer can help you pursue the best possible outcome in your case.
At BK Law Group, we understand the stakes involved and are committed to providing personalized, strategic defense. Reach out to schedule your consultation and begin working toward a resolution that protects both your rights and your future.