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Legal Representation In Minnesota And Wisconsin
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    4.  | What Are The Different DWI Charges In Minnesota?

DWI Charges In Minnesota Range From Serious To Extremely Serious

Although driving while intoxicated (DWI) is one of the most common charges in Minnesota, being charged with such an offense is not something you should take lightly. The penalties can include expensive fines, jail time, damage to your reputation and career, vehicle forfeiture and more.

If you or a loved one has been arrested for DWI, you need experienced legal counsel to help you minimize the consequences. For more than 30 years, the skilled attorneys at Bird, Stevens & Borgen, P.C., have provided aggressive criminal defense for individuals throughout the Rochester and Twin Cities areas. Our DWI defense lawyers will take your case incredibly seriously – and do everything in their power to protect your future.

DWI In Minnesota: What To Know

In our state, there are four degrees of charges for driving under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance. These include:

  • First-degree DWI: A felony-level offense with a fine of up to $14,000 and up to seven years in prison.
  • Second-degree DWI: A misdemeanor offense with a fine of up to $3,000 and up to one year in jail.
  • Third-degree DWI: A misdemeanor with a fine of up to $3,000 and up to one year in jail.
  • Fourth-degree DWI: A misdemeanor with a fine of up to $1,000 and 90 days in jail.

Refusal to submit to a lawful request for chemical testing is also a criminal offense in Minnesota. The level of the DWI defense is dependent on several factors, including a person’s blood alcohol content (BAC) and the existence of so-called aggravating factors (e.g., a prior DWI, BAC of 0.16 or more).

Another important detail is that in Minnesota you have only 30 days to challenge the loss of your driver’s license after a DWI arrest. This is a civil administrative proceeding that must be undertaken separately from the criminal case against you. Likewise, if your vehicle was seized for forfeiture, an additional civil case must be filed to seek its return.

Get Help From A Lawyer Immediately

Our criminal defense lawyers can protect your rights in both the criminal and civil arenas. We have extensive experience bringing motions seeking the dismissal of charges and negotiating plea bargains to reduce the severity of charges and sentences. We are also a reputable litigation team prepared to fight for you at trial.

Time is critical after a DWI charge. Act quickly by contacting Bird, Stevens & Borgen, P.C. Our team will provide you with insightful counsel, strong defensive strategies and formidable representation in court. To schedule your free initial consultation, please call our law office at 507-218-2392 or send us an email.

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