Second-Offense DUI in St. Louis Park

With above-average schools, a variety of homes, and easy access to the best of the Twin Cities area, St. Louis Park has a lot to offer its residents. However, when residents drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they can face a number of consequences. These consequences can be even worse when the driver was previously convicted of impairment-related traffic offenses.

When you are charged with a second-offense DUI in St. Louis Park, you should speak with a qualified DUI defense attorney who can help you understand your legal options.

Look-Back Period for DWI Offenses

The state’s legal impairment limit is .08 grams of alcohol per deciliter of blood. However, even if a driver has a lower level of impairment, they can still be charged with a DWI (also commonly referred to as a DUI). First-time offenders face consequences including incarceration, court fines and fees, and the loss of their license for up to a year. The state also has a “look-back period” of ten years for these types of offenses. When a driver in St. Louis Park is convicted of a second-offense DUI within a ten-year period, the consequences are stiffer.

The Difference Between a First-Time Offense and Subsequent DWIs

Those accused of their first DWI offense are typically charged with fourth-degree DWI, which is a misdemeanor and a less serious offense. Of course, the charge depends on the circumstances of the offense, and issues such as extreme impairment (at least twice the legal limit) are considered during sentencing. Fourth-degree DWI carries potential penalties that include up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.

The charge for people in St. Louis Park accused of their second DUI offense in a ten-year period is commonly third-degree DWI. Those convicted of third-degree DWI will face potential consequences, including up to a year in jail and a $3,000 fine. With either a fourth- or third-degree DWI charge, the defendant faces a period of license suspension.

How a Defense Lawyer Could Help

Criminal defense lawyers regularly help those who are facing second-offense DWIs to minimize the consequences of the charge through a carefully planned defense strategy. This strategy depends on the circumstances that led to the charge. It might include questioning evidence such as the results of a Breathalyzer or the techniques the police used in their investigation. An attorney may present evidence proving the defendant was not impaired or was not in control of the vehicle at the time when the police began investigating. In other cases, a defense strategy might include a negotiated plea deal where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge or completes certain requirements in exchange for a lighter penalty.

Contact an Attorney in St. Louis Park When Accused of a Second-Offense DUI

You need a strong defense strategy to mitigate the potential consequences when facing a second-offense DUI in St. Louis Park. When you are charged with DWI for the second time in the past ten years, the legal team at BK Law Group can talk to you about your case and the services they can provide to assist you. Contact us today to schedule your consultation with a criminal defense attorney from BK Law Group.