Aiden Belville
2 months ago
When you are arrested for driving while impaired (DWI), the consequences can be serious and extensive. From license revocation and fines to jail time and professional setbacks, a conviction may significantly affect your future. If you are facing these charges, speaking with a St. Louis Park DWI lawyer is essential.
At BK Law Group, our defense attorneys are prepared to guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and build a strategy tailored to your circumstances. We have successfully represented clients across the state in DUI and DWI cases and are ready to pursue a favorable result with your case.
Many people use the terms DWI and DUI interchangeably. The official term under the law, however, is driving while impaired. A person can face DWI charges for operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or a combination of both. Having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher typically qualifies as a per se DWI offense under Minnesota Statutes § 169A.20.
DWI charges vary based on the circumstances of the arrest and any prior offenses. First-time DWIs are typically misdemeanors, while aggravating factors such as a high BAC, minors in the vehicle, or refusal to take a test, can lead to aggravated charges. Repeat offenses may be charged as gross misdemeanors or felonies.
Penalties may include up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine for a first offense, with harsher consequences for subsequent convictions or aggravating factors. An attorney in St. Louis Park could review the specifics of your DWI case and explain how state law applies to your impaired driving charges.
Following a DWI arrest in St. Louis Park, you will face both criminal and administrative proceedings, and a trusted lawyer could guide you through the process. In addition to the criminal case, the Minnesota Department of Public Safety may immediately revoke your driver’s license after your arrest. You generally have only 60 days to challenge this revocation in an administrative hearing.
Criminal court proceedings typically begin with an arraignment, where the charges are formally presented. Subsequent hearings may involve pretrial motions, plea negotiations, or ultimately a trial. Navigating these stages can be complex and stressful, but an experienced defense lawyer could help you prepare by:
Our attorneys at BK Law Group take a comprehensive approach to your defense, examining every detail from the traffic stop to the testing procedures.
DWI charges are defensible, and your attorney may be able to challenge key aspects of the case. Common defense strategies include:
Each case is unique, and what works in one situation may not be effective in another. That is why it is critical to consult a defense attorney who understands DWI laws and the court practices specific to St. Louis Park. Our team builds a personalized legal strategy focused on minimizing the consequences or, when possible, getting the charges dismissed.
If you are facing DWI charges, speaking with a St. Louis Park DWI lawyer promptly could help you take control of the situation. Early legal guidance may improve your chances of reducing penalties or avoiding a conviction.
At BK Law Group, we provide clear, focused representation for individuals charged with impaired driving offenses. Let us help you move forward—contact us today to schedule a consultation.