Arrested for a First-Time DWI in Minnesota? Here’s Why Hiring a Lawyer Matters
A first-time DWI in Minnesota is a serious offense, even if you have no prior record and no one was harmed. Many people assume that because it’s their first offense, they can just pay a fine, serve their time, and move on. But the truth is, the consequences can follow you for years — and defending yourself without legal help can be a costly mistake.
So, do you need a lawyer for your first DWI? In most cases, the answer is a clear yes.
In this guide from Martine Law, we’ll explain why hiring an attorney is crucial even for first-time offenders, what’s at stake, and how a good legal defense can protect your future.
What Constitutes a First-Time DWI in Minnesota?
Under Minnesota Statutes § 169A.20, it’s illegal to drive or be in physical control of a motor vehicle:
- While under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- With a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or more
- With any detectable amount of a Schedule I or II controlled substance
A first-time DWI refers to someone who has no prior DWI offenses within the past 10 years. But that doesn’t mean the law will go easy on you.
Penalties for a First-Time DWI in MN
Even first offenses can carry significant consequences, especially if your BAC is high or there were aggravating factors such as:
- Having a child in the car
- Causing an accident
- Refusing to take a chemical test
Here are some of the standard penalties for a first-time DWI:
For a BAC under 0.16%:
- Misdemeanor charge
- Up to 90 days in jail
- Fines up to $1,000
- 90-day license suspension
- Possible ignition interlock device
- Mandatory chemical dependency assessment
For a BAC 0.16% or higher:
- Gross misdemeanor
- Up to 1 year in jail
- Up to $3,000 in fines
- License revoked for up to 1 year
- Ignition interlock required
- Increased insurance rates
These are criminal penalties, but civil penalties — like license suspension — happen immediately after your arrest.
Learn more about Minnesota DWI laws at Minnesota House Research.
Why You Shouldn’t Plead Guilty Without Talking to a Lawyer
Many people assume they don’t need a lawyer if they’re “just going to plead guilty anyway.” But pleading guilty without understanding all the implications can seriously backfire.
Here’s why:
- You may have a valid defense
Just because you were charged doesn’t mean the case is airtight. Issues with the traffic stop, improper field sobriety tests, or a mishandled chemical test can all lead to dismissal or reduced charges. - A conviction stays on your record
In Minnesota, a DWI conviction stays on your criminal record and driving record for life — even if it’s your first offense. This can impact employment, housing, and more. - You could lose your license longer than necessary
A lawyer can help you petition for limited driving privileges, such as a work permit, or challenge the suspension entirely. - You might be eligible for diversion or reduction
Some counties offer diversion programs or allow first-time offenders to plead to a lesser offense, but you may not be offered these options without legal representation.
What a DWI Lawyer Can Do for You
A DWI defense attorney does more than just show up to court. They analyze every aspect of your case to identify mistakes or violations of your rights. At Martine Law, we work to:
- Challenge the legality of the stop
- Review bodycam and dashcam footage
- Dispute unreliable field sobriety tests
- File motions to suppress faulty evidence
- Negotiate reduced charges or penalties
- Request limited driving privileges
- Guide you through license reinstatement
Your best chance of keeping your record clean and your license intact is to have someone fighting on your side who understands how the Minnesota DWI system works.
Can You Represent Yourself?
While it’s legally allowed, it’s rarely recommended. DWI laws are complex, and prosecutors will not go easy on you just because it’s your first offense. You might miss important deadlines, fail to understand plea options, or agree to harsher terms than necessary.
Without a lawyer, you’re at the mercy of a system that is not designed to protect unrepresented defendants.
What If You Think You’re Guilty?
Even if you think the evidence is stacked against you, a lawyer can still help. A first-time offense doesn’t have to define your future. With the right legal strategy, you may be able to:
- Get the charge reduced to careless driving
- Negotiate a stay of adjudication, keeping your record clean
- Secure alternatives to jail time
- Minimize the length of license suspension
In many cases, you have more options than you think — but you need a lawyer who can uncover and fight for them.
Don’t Let One Mistake Define Your Future
A first-time DWI is a serious legal matter. Even if no one was harmed and you’ve never been in trouble before, Minnesota law doesn’t give you a free pass. The only way to ensure your rights are protected and your penalties minimized is to have a skilled attorney guide you through the process.
At Martine Law, we’ve helped hundreds of Minnesotans just like you. We understand how to challenge the state’s evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and build a strong defense focused on your long-term future.
Take Action Now
If you’ve been charged with a first-time DWI in Minnesota, don’t wait. Time is critical — especially if you want to fight your license suspension or seek a limited license. Contact Martine Law today for a free consultation and get the support you need to move forward.