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What Are The Punishments for DUIs in Minnesota?

By January 8, 2025January 10th, 2025No Comments

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a serious offense in Minnesota, with potential consequences that can impact nearly every area of life, from driving privileges and finances to employment opportunities. 

Understanding the range of penalties for DUI convictions in Minnesota is essential, especially if you or someone you know is facing these charges. At Martine Law, our experienced criminal defense team has helped countless clients navigate Minnesota’s DUI laws, providing support and advocacy when they need it most.

Here’s a detailed look at the penalties you could face if convicted of a DUI in Minnesota.

What Constitutes a DUI in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, a DUI (also referred to as DWI, or “driving while impaired”) occurs when a driver operates a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or when their ability to drive is impaired by alcohol or drugs. For commercial drivers, the BAC limit is lower, at 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, Minnesota has a strict zero-tolerance policy—any detectable alcohol can lead to charges.

DUI Penalties by Offense Level

Minnesota classifies DUIs into four levels, with first-degree DUIs being the most severe and fourth-degree DUIs being the least. Each degree carries its own set of potential penalties, which increase with each subsequent offense or with aggravating factors (such as a high BAC or driving with a child in the vehicle).

1. Fourth-Degree DUI (Misdemeanor)

2. Third-Degree DUI (Gross Misdemeanor)

  • Who It Applies To: Repeat offenders or first-time offenders with a BAC of 0.16% or higher, or those with one aggravating factor (such as having a child under 16 in the vehicle)
  • Penalties:
    • Up to one year in jail
    • Fines up to $3,000
    • License suspension up to 180 days, or 90 days with ignition interlock
    • Mandatory alcohol assessment and potential treatment program
  • Why a Lawyer Can Help: An attorney experienced in DUI cases can build a defense to challenge evidence, potentially reducing jail time or fines.

3. Second-Degree DUI (Gross Misdemeanor)

  • Who It Applies To: Offenders with two or more aggravating factors, or those with prior DUI convictions
  • Penalties:
    • Up to one year in jail
    • Fines up to $3,000
    • License suspension for one year, or up to six months with ignition interlock
    • Mandatory participation in alcohol treatment programs
  • Why a Lawyer Can Help: A second-degree DUI conviction brings more severe penalties, making experienced legal representation essential for those seeking to avoid harsh consequences.

4. First-Degree DUI (Felony)

  • Who It Applies To: Offenders with three or more DUI convictions in the past 10 years, or those with a prior felony DUI
  • Penalties:
    • Up to seven years in prison
    • Fines up to $14,000
    • Lengthy or permanent driver’s license revocation
    • Mandatory alcohol treatment programs
  • Why a Lawyer Can Help: Felony DUI charges carry life-changing consequences, and having a knowledgeable defense team on your side is crucial in striving to secure a favorable outcome.

Aggravating Factors that Increase DUI Penalties

Minnesota DUI penalties are significantly impacted by “aggravating factors” which include:

  • Prior DUI Convictions: More than one DUI in a 10-year period results in harsher punishments.
  • BAC of 0.16% or Higher: Higher BAC levels typically lead to higher offense levels and more severe consequences.
  • Child Endangerment: Driving under the influence with a child under 16 years old in the car escalates the offense level.
  • Driving Without a Valid License: Driving under a suspended or revoked license can increase the severity of DUI penalties.

Having an attorney to address these aggravating factors is critical, as they may be able to argue mitigating circumstances or even reduce the offense level.

Administrative Penalties

In addition to criminal penalties, Minnesota imposes administrative penalties on DUI offenders, which are enforced by the Department of Public Safety (DPS) and include:

  • Immediate License Suspension: DUI arrests lead to automatic suspension of driving privileges for a specific period.
  • License Plate Impoundment: Certain DUI offenses, particularly repeat offenses, can result in the impoundment of license plates.
  • Vehicle Forfeiture: In severe cases, such as multiple DUIs, the state may seize and forfeit the offender’s vehicle.

These penalties are separate from criminal charges, and a DUI attorney can help guide you through the administrative process to potentially regain your driving privileges sooner.

Ignition Interlock Device Program

Minnesota offers an Ignition Interlock Device Program to help DUI offenders retain limited driving privileges. Drivers can install an ignition interlock device in their vehicle to measure BAC levels, allowing them to drive as long as they test below the limit.

Key Details of the Program:

  • Available to drivers facing a DUI conviction
  • Requires the driver to blow into a device to check BAC before driving
  • Provides a route to retain driving privileges and avoid complete license suspension
  • Why a Lawyer Can Help: Your attorney can help determine whether you qualify for this program and guide you through the application process.

DUI Penalties for Drivers Under 21

Minnesota follows a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving. Drivers under 21 face DUI charges for any detectable amount of alcohol in their system. Potential penalties include:

  • License suspension for 30 days for a first offense and 180 days for subsequent offenses
  • Fines and possible jail time if BAC is 0.08% or higher
  • Mandatory attendance at alcohol education programs
  • Why a Lawyer Can Help: An attorney can advocate for a young driver, seeking alternatives to penalties that could affect future education or career opportunities.

DUI-Related Consequences Beyond Legal Penalties

A DUI conviction can extend beyond fines and jail time, impacting various aspects of life, including:

  • Employment: Many employers conduct background checks, and a DUI could affect current or future job opportunities.
  • Insurance Rates: DUI convictions typically result in increased car insurance rates.
  • Professional Licensing: Certain licenses may be jeopardized by a DUI conviction.
  • Travel Restrictions: Some countries restrict entry for individuals with DUI convictions.

A DUI attorney at Martine Law can help you explore options to minimize these additional consequences, making it easier to regain control of your life.

Contact the DUI Defense Lawyers at Martine Law Today

Facing DUI charges can feel overwhelming, especially with the risk of life-changing penalties and limitations on future opportunities. 

The experienced team at Martine Law understands the weight of these charges and offers compassionate, client-focused representation aimed at minimizing the impact on your life. 

If you’re dealing with DUI charges in Minnesota, contact us at Martine Law for the guidance you need. Call us at 612-979-1305 or visit our contact page to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your rights.