Minneapolis DWI Lawyer
Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialists on Your Side
Minnesota has some of the strictest laws when it comes to driving while intoxicated (DWI) charges. At Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, P.A., our Minneapolis DWI attorneys are familiar with the questions you may be asking after being arrested. We are here to make certain you get the legal representation you need when facing such charges and uncertainties.
Our DWI lawyers handle a variety of drunk driving cases, including:
- Driving an automobile while intoxicated
- Boating while intoxicated
- Snowmobiling while intoxicated
- Operating an ATV while intoxicated
If you or someone you love has been arrested for any of these charges in Minnesota, the penalties you could face are nothing to ignore. These penalties may include heavy fines, jail time, license suspension, court-ordered installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID) on your vehicle, and the inability to legally operate a motor vehicle of any design.
Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, P.A. can help you by informing you of your rights, helping you protect your best interests, and giving you the advocacy you need to pursue the best possible resolution. We are here to answer your questions, act on your behalf, and make sure you feel confident about the direction of your case.
Ready to fight your DWI charges? Get Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, P.A. on your case!
New Minnesota Law Bars Operation of All Vehicles
In August 2018, the law of Minnesota was changed to prohibit someone convicted of a DWI from operating any motor vehicle at all. For example, someone who is convicted of a DWI after being pulled over in their personal vehicle will not be allowed to operate a snowmobile, motorboat, or ATV for as long as their license is suspended. The same is true for the inverse, like someone being banned from driving their car because they were found to be operating a snowmobile while intoxicated. Furthermore, the legal change allows chemical testing, conditional releases, and plate impoundment to be used against first-time DWI suspects who were using an off-road recreational vehicle. In the past, such stipulations could only be imposed against someone using a highway approved vehicle with licensing.
New Law in Minnesota Has Lowered the Alcohol Limit
As of August 1, 2015, a law was passed to lower the blood alcohol concentration threshold for enhanced charges. Drivers with elevated BAC levels of .16 or more will be charged with Gross Misdemeanors. This aggravating factor poses more severe penalties, including a one-year loss of driver’s license and up to one year in jail. Prior to this law, the aggravating limit was .20. It is a clear indication that Minnesota authorities makes DUI enforcement, and penalties, a priority.
Penalties for a First-Time DWI Offense in Minnesota
In Minnesota, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% or greater. If your BAC is between .08% and .16%, you will be charged with a misdemeanor.
The penalties for a first-time DWI offense may include:
- Maximum 90-day jail sentence
- Up to $1,000 in fines
- 90 days of no driving privileges
- Ignition interlock device (IID)
- Restricted from using any motor vehicle
If your alcohol concentration level exceeds 0.16%, you could be charged with a gross misdemeanor. Penalties may include up to one year in jail, $3,000 in fines, and one year of no driving privileges.
DWI & Enhanced Penalties
Minnesota is tough on DWIs that involve aggravating factors. Under state law, you can face more serious charges, including felonies in some cases, and enhanced penalties if certain aggravating circumstances are involved in your case.
Aggravating factors in a DWI case include :
- Prior DWIs
- Higher BAC levels
- Minor passengers
- Driving on a suspended license
- Accidents and property damage
- Accidents causing injury or death
With over 100 years of collective legal experience, our team has accumulated the experience and insight to handle the full range of DWI charges, from underage DWI and DWI drugs to vehicular homicide. We also represent clients facing issues involving vehicle forfeiture, license revocation, and commercial driver's licenses.
Act Fast – Call Us 24/7 for a Free Consultation!
The truth is disregarding criminal charges of any type will never yield a good result. It is important to be proactive. After all, this is your life and future at stake. Speaking with the Minneapolis DWI attorneys at our firm is a great way to take the initiative and start turning the situation around. Led by former prosecutors and Board Certified Criminal Law Specialists, we are prepared to answer your questions and provide the counsel and representation you need.
Get your free consultation today by dialing (612) 444-5020.