DWI & Drugs

We're available 24/7. Call us at (612) 444-5020.

Minneapolis Drug DWI Lawyer

Were You Arrested for Driving Under the Influence of Drugs in Minnesota?

According to section 169A.20 of Minnesota law, it is illegal for a person to be in physical control of a vehicle while under the influence of a controlled substance or any other hazardous substance that affects the brain, nervous system, or muscles. Not only does this refer to illegal narcotics, but it includes certain prescription drugs as well.

If you have been arrested and accused of driving under the influence of drugs, contact Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, P.A. and speak with a Minneapolis DWI drugs attorney about what to do next. With your rights and driving privileges on the line, you should not risk a criminal conviction by attempting to handle your charges without the help of an experienced lawyer.

Why Choose Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, P.A.?

  • 100+ years of experience
  • Former Minnesota prosecutors
  • Attorney Joseph Tamburino is a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist
  • Our attorneys have been featured in the Super Lawyers® list for 15 consecutive years
  • Available days, nights, and weekends
  • Free, confidential, no-obligation case evaluations

Our firm has handled DWI cases since 1983 and is familiar with the best ways to protect our clients. Experienced in the courtroom and respected by our peers, our attorneys have obtained numerous favorable outcomes for clients. The outcome of your case will depend on the quality of representation you choose, so turn to us for help during this challenging time.

We’re available 24/7 to offer you a FREE case evaluation. Call (612) 444-5020 now.

Minnesota is Zero-Tolerance State

Minnesota is a zero-tolerance state when it comes to driving under the influence of drugs (DUID). This means that a driver will be arrested if an officer has a reasonable suspicion that he or she is operating a vehicle with any Schedule I or Schedule II controlled drug in their system. 

This is a per se charge, meaning that there does not actually need to be any impairment in driving ability for the driver to be charged with DWI.

If a person is found to be under the influence of a hazardous substance, then he or she will face DWI charges. However, this law does not apply to marijuana or marijuana metabolites (the chemical substance that remains after marijuana has been metabolized in a person’s body).

Penalties for Drug-Impaired Driving

A driver who has been arrested and accused of driving under the influence of drugs will be subject to the full range of penalties for an alcohol-related DUI.

These penalties include:

  • Jail time
  • Fines of $1,000 or more
  • License suspension
  • Installation of an Ignition Interlock Device (IID)
  • Drug counseling

When you choose to work with our firm, we may be able to reduce or eliminate your charges, potentially helping you avoid jail time.

DWI and Prescription Drugs

In Minnesota, you can be arrested for DWI if you get behind the wheel while impaired by prescription drugs. Minnesota law prohibits operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of any substance, including prescription medication, if it impairs your ability to drive safely. 

The key factor is whether the prescription drug impairs your ability to drive. Even if you are taking the medication as prescribed by your doctor, you can still be charged with DWI if it affects your driving. The effects of prescription drugs can also be exacerbated when combined with alcohol or other drugs, increasing the likelihood of impairment.

Certain prescription drugs are known to impair a person's ability to drive, including:

  • Opioids: Painkillers such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine.
  • Benzodiazepines: Anti-anxiety medications like diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), and lorazepam (Ativan).
  • Sleep aids: Medications like zolpidem (Ambien) and eszopiclone (Lunesta).
  • Muscle relaxants: Drugs like cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril) and carisoprodol (Soma).

Don’t Wait to Seek the DWI Defense You Need

The Minneapolis drugged driving lawyers at our firm have fought and won numerous DWI cases during their years in practice. When you discuss your case with one of our attorneys, we can investigate the results of any urine or blood tests taken to determine the presence of drugs in your system, and look into whether the appropriate protocol was followed during testing to ensure accuracy. Then, we can determine the appropriate course of action based on the circumstances surrounding your arrest.

Contact Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, P.A. at (612) 444-5020 to discuss your case with our drug DWI lawyers in Minneapolis.

What Should I Do If I’VE BEEN ARRESTED?

  • 1. Don’t Talk to the Police!

    It’s crucial to know that while you should remain respectful with authorities, you have the right to remain silent. This a right protected by the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, which makes it clear individuals are protected from being compelled to be a witness against him / herself in criminal matters.

    It’s important to note that:

    • Talking will not help you avoid an arrest. If law enforcement has probable cause to arrest you, then they will arrest you.
    • By speaking, you risk making a confession or providing information that can be used to indict you, even unknowingly.
    • Even if you feel that information being discussed is “harmless,” it is still in your best interest to invoke your Fifth Amendment right.
  • 2. Ask for a Lawyer!
    As soon as you can you should elect your right to have a defense attorney present. A Minnesota criminal defense lawyer or public defender can ensure the police do not violate your rights and help you avoid saying anything incriminating during questioning. Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so that we can be by your side whenever you need us. Call now!

Making a Difference for OUR CLIENTS

  • Thank you and your law firm, Mr. Tamburino.

    Thank you and your law firm, Mr. Tamburino. To be honest, going into this case I was lost in all the steps and confused on what to do. With the help from you, Ashley, and Tyler, I can say I felt relief that I had wonderful lawyers to help me through this incident. In the past 9 or 10 years, I had always tried to figure things out myself. Going into this issue, I was discouraged on my ability to avoid the harsh punishment of one bad decision I had made on the day of my arrest. You and your team gave me the hope and belief that I needed. So I just wanted to give you my thanks. If ever I have anyone who needs a lawyer I will most definitely recommend you and your firm.

  • This settlement changed my life.

    “I came to Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, P.A. in 2018 after a severe accident left me unable to work and in constant pain. The firm helped me secure a $700,000 award, far exceeding my expectations. Their tireless efforts have completely changed my life, covering medical bills and future wage loss.”

  • Great care and compassion.

    “I don't know any lawyers who would do what Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, P.A. did for their client. Their care and concern show a great deal about their heart and compassion for others. Thank you for being so supportive.”

  • Outstanding and professional

    “Thank you for everything you have done to help me with this court case. Without your help, things would definitely not have gone as well. Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm goes above and beyond to help clients. They are prompt, courteous, and professional. Highly recommend.”

  • I cannot thank you enough for your help!

    “Your patience, knowledge and especially your attention to detail was admirable.”

Why Choose Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, P.A.?

  • We’ll start your case with a FREE, no-obligation consultation
  • Attorney Joseph Tamburino is a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist, achieved by only 3% of Attorneys
  • We have represented thousands of clients and we have handled hundreds of jury trials
  • Our attorneys have worked as prosecutors and public defenders throughout the state
  • Our team is available 24/7 – when our clients need us, we’re there for them

Book a FREE CONSULTATION

Don't hesitate to call us at (612) 444-5020 or fill out the form below. WE ARE AVAILABLE TO SPEAK WITH YOU 24/7.
  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy