More than 20,000 Minnesotans are arrested each year for drunk driving, and for many of them, they are going through the experience for the first time. While it’s encouraging that they have not made a habit of drinking and driving, it also means they likely have no idea what to expect from their first DWI arrest. In today’s blog, we take a closer look at the basics of a run-of-the-mill first offense DWI arrest in Minnesota.
First DWI Arrest In Minnesota
As a criminal defense firm, we’ll help develop your defense, present a strong case and work hard to get the charges reduced or dropped, but for the sake of this blog, we’re just going to focus on the common outcomes on the assumption that you have been convicted of your first DWI in Minnesota.
When this happens, you’ll officially be convicted of fourth-degree Driving While Intoxicated. A fourth-degree DWI is considered a misdemeanor offense here in Minnesota, meaning you can face up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $1,000 upon conviction. In the majority of cases, a person is typically not sentenced to jail for a fourth-degree DWI. It’s certainly possible that you could be sentenced to a couple of days or longer, but in most instances, no jail time is imposed for a first offense. Your lawyer can help make a case at sentencing as to why any jail sentence would be detrimental to your livelihood and family should you feel the need to do so. Fines typically range from around $300-$500, and there may also be court or administrative fees.
Aside from the fines and unlikely jail potential, the biggest issue you may face is in regards to your license. After a DWI conviction, your license will be revoked for 90 days. You can apply for a limited license after 15 days or you can drive with full privileges if you install an ignition interlock device, and this service will include some fees. More on ignition interlock fees on this page.
Fines, jail potential and driving restrictions are the big three punishments you may face for a fourth-degree DWI. The court may also impose other penalties, like alcohol education class or community service, but these are given out on a case-by-case basis. There’s also the likelihood that you’ll see a significant increase in your car insurance rates, as you’ll now be flagged as a driver with a higher risk history.
It may not sound all that bad, but between the fines and higher insurance costs, and the inability to drive for roughly three months because you lost your license, a first-offense DWI can have significant consequences and shouldn’t be taken lightly. It’s also why you’ll always want to consult with a lawyer to see if you have some smart defense or plea options. If you can avoid a DWI conviction and plead out or get any reckless driving citation off your record, it can save your thousands on insurance costs and avoid travel disruptions by helping you keep your license.
We can help explain more about the financial impact and your best options for moving forward at our free case review session. For more information, or for help contesting your DUI, give us a call today at (952) 224-2277.
