If you live in the Twin Cities, you’re less than a half hour drive from Wisconsin, so it’s no surprise that we get a number of calls each year about individuals who live in Minnesota but ended up getting charged with DUI in Wisconsin on a weekend trip. Getting an out of state DUI can seems like a hassle, and while it usually is a little more complicated than a DUI in your county of residence, it’s not the end of the world. Today, we explain what is likely to happen if you live in Minnesota but end up with DUI charges from Wisconsin.
How Am I Affected By An Out Of State DUI
Some people mistakenly think that because they won’t be doing much driving in Wisconsin or the state in which they received the DUI, that it’s not that big of a deal. However, that DUI will follow you back into Minnesota. Wisconsin uploads all operating while intoxicated convictions into the National Driver Register, which is accessible by law enforcement in Minnesota. In fact, if the DMV notices that you have a DUI on the National Driver Register when you go to renew your license, they may deny your request. This is just another reason to not ignore your out of state DUI, because the problems will come home with you.
Also, you’re going to face driving restrictions, not just in Wisconsin, but also in Minnesota. After a conviction, your driving privileges will be revoked in Wisconsin for a while, but in Minnesota, you may also face license revocation and the possibility of a required ignition interlock device. You may be able to apply for a restricted or limited license, but it depends on the circumstances of your arrest.
Finally, you’re going to have to shell out some money. DUI-related license reinstatements currently run $680 in Minnesota, and that’s not even including the citation base fine you’ll have to pay. Again, don’t ignore the fine thinking that Wisconsin police won’t come after you, because it will show up in Minnesota police databases, and failing to pay fines can lead to more driving restrictions or suspensions. On top of it all, late fees and administrative penalties will continue to rack up. Also, you’ll likely have to deal with car insurance increases in Minnesota, because the insurance company will be able to access your out of state DUI.
At the end of the day, an out of state DUI will have a number of consequences for you in Minnesota, especially if you think you’re far enough away that you can ignore the charges. Doing so will lead to many more problems, so be proactive and seek out legal counsel to help fight the charges. Avery and his team have helped numerous clients win cases for out of state DUIs, and he can do the same for you. For more information about how he can help build your case, or to talk about your legal options after an arrest, click here to set up a free consultation with a member of our firm.
