Arrested for DWI in Minnesota? Minnesota takes DWI charges seriously, with strict penalties for those convicted of impaired driving. However, DWI charges are often brought on flimsy evidence, such as a field sobriety test or a wrongful traffic stop. With an experienced team of DWI lawyers like at Martine Law, you have the chance to challenge your DWI charge in court and get your charges dropped altogether.
Our Minneapolis DWI Defense Services
DWI charges can arise from various substances, including alcohol, prescription medications, and illegal drugs. The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in Minnesota is 0.08% for drivers over 21 and lower for commercial drivers and those under 21.
Legal penalties vary depending on a number of factors, including the number of prior offenses in the last ten years, the driver’s BAC, and whether any harm was caused. Most first-time offenses are considered a fourth-degree DWI, which is a misdemeanor and carries a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail.
However, if you have three or more prior DWIs or a prior impaired driving felony, you can be convicted of a first degree DWI. This felony charge carries 3 to 7 years in prison, a chemical dependency program, and five years of probation.
In addition to these legal penalties, you will likely be facing a license suspension for any DWI conviction, although the length of the suspension will vary depending on the severity of the charge.
At Martine Law, we understand the fear and uncertainty that comes with facing DWI charges. Our experienced DWI defense team is committed to alleviating that fear and uncertainty by defending your rights at all costs.
There are several defense strategies we may employ to challenge DWI charges:
- Challenging the validity of the traffic stop: We will examine whether law enforcement had probable cause to pull you over and whether your rights were violated during the stop.
- Disputing the accuracy of chemical or field sobriety tests: We will scrutinize the administration and accuracy of breathalyzer, blood, or urine tests to determine if they were conducted properly and if the results are reliable. We will also assess whether field sobriety tests were conducted under fair conditions and if external factors could have influenced the results.
- Exploring constitutional rights violations: We will review the entire arrest process to identify any procedural errors or violations of your rights that could lead to the dismissal of charges, such as improper search and seizure or failure to read you your Miranda rights.
- Presenting mitigating factors: We will highlight any mitigating circumstances, such as a clean criminal record, cooperation with law enforcement, or medical conditions, to advocate for reduced penalties.
We will work with you to build a defense strategy tailored to the needs of your specific case. Whether it’s representing you in court, negotiating a plea deal, or getting your charges dropped before they even go to trial, we will stop at nothing to win the best outcome possible for you and your future. We want you to avoid issues like potential background checks that can affect your employment or immigration status.
What Our Clients Say
“Got an incredible plea deal for a pretty bad situation. Martine gets it done.
Matthew G.
“Xavier’s diverse experience in different areas of law allows him to really attack the legality of your case and give the best option to moving forward in the legal process. I really appreciate his dedication to fairness in the way the law is applied.”
Collin D.
“Okay, so I was drunk as heck. But Mr X got my butt off the hook. If you find yourself on the wrong side of the police I can't think of a better attorney to help you.”
Donald C.
“Xavier was so helpful during an unfortunate time in my life, very easy to talk to and non-judgmental! He was very thorough and professional in regards to my case, which ultimately led to a great outcome.”
Amber P.
Our Minneapolis DWI Case Process
STEP ONE:
Call (612) 979-1305 to speak to an Intake Specialist. We’re available 24/7.
STEP TWO:
We’ll discuss your situation and desired outcomes, and determine if we can help.
STEP THREE:
If we’re a good fit, we’ll fight to get you the best results possible!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a DWI in Minneapolis, Minnesota?
DWI stands for Driving While Impaired. In Minneapolis, Minnesota, you can be charged with DWI if you operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both, with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
What are the penalties for a DWI conviction in Minnesota?
Penalties for a DWI conviction in Minnesota can include fines, license suspension or revocation, mandatory participation in a treatment program, community service, and even jail time, depending on the severity of the offense and any prior convictions.
Can I refuse to take a breathalyzer test in Minnesota?
Minnesota has an implied consent law, which means that by driving on public roads, you have implicitly consented to submit to chemical testing if suspected of DWI. Refusing to submit to a chemical test of one’s blood, breath, or urine will likely lead to a license suspension, even if you have not had any prior DWI incidents. Ask an experienced DWI lawyer for more detail on whether it’s wise to refuse a breathalyzer test.
Will I lose my driver's license if I'm convicted of a DWI?
A DWI conviction in Minneapolis can result in license suspension or revocation, depending on factors such as prior offenses and the circumstances of the current offense. However, you may be eligible for limited driving privileges or reinstatement after a certain period.
Can I get a DWI expunged from my record?
In Minnesota, it may be possible to have a DWI conviction expunged from your record under certain circumstances. However, eligibility requirements for expungement can be stringent, and it’s essential to consult with an experienced attorney to explore your options.
Areas Served
- St. Paul
- Minnetonka
- Bloomington
- St. Louis Park
- Brooklyn Park
- Maplewood
- Plymouth
- Richfield
- Lakeville
- Roseville
- Blaine
- Inver Grove Heights
- Maple Grove
- Brooklyn Center
- St. Cloud
- Shoreview
- Eagan
- Rosemount
- Burnsville
- Chanhassen
- Eden Prairie
- White Bear Lake
- Apple Valley
- Farmington
- Edina
- Lino Lakes
- Fridley
- Mankato
- Chaska
- Isanti
- Cambridge
- Litchfield
- Rochester
- Savage
- Elk River
- Big Lake
- Waseca
- Buffalo
- Champlin (Incl. Hassan Township)
- New Brighton
- Mounds View
- Crystal
- Vadnais Heights
- Golden Valley
- Annandale
- St. Michael
- North St. Paul
- Hastings
- Mendota Heights
- New Hope
- Little Canada
- West St. Paul
- Arden Hills
- Northfield
- Mound
- South St. Paul
- St. Anthony
- Sartell
- Minnetrista
- Hopkins
- Waite Park
- Robbinsdale
- Dayton
- Rogers
- Lake Elmo
- Coon Rapids
- Andover
- Carver
- Red Wing
- Hutchinson
- Faribault
- Shakopee
- Prior Lake
- Jordan
- Richmond
- Owatonna
Hire an Experienced DWI Lawyer in Minneapolis Today
Facing DWI charges can be daunting, but you don’t have to navigate the legal system alone. With Martine Law by your side, you can trust that we will aggressively defend your rights and work tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for your case. Don’t wait—contact us today to speak to an Intake Specialist.
