Minnesota DWI Penalties

Minnesota has some of the harshest penalties for DWI in the country. If you have been accused of drunk driving you need the experience and dedication of a criminal lawyer in Minnesota who will go the extra mile to defend your rights and protect your best interests. At Loraas & Loraas, you will be represented by a top criminal attorney who can guide you through the challenging maze that is the criminal justice system to obtain the best possible resolution for your case.

In Minnesota, there are four levels of DWI charges and penalties you might face depending on your history or the act of drinking and driving itself:
 

Fourth Degree DWI

A Fourth Degree DWI in Minnesota is classified as a misdemeanor and is considered a lower level charge. A person who has been pulled over for DWI may be charged with a Fourth Degree DWI when that person has no prior impaired violations within 10 years preceeding the current charge. A person convicted of this degree of DWI may face up to 90 days in jail and up to a $1,000 fine.
 

Third Degree DWI

A Third Degree DWI in Minnesota is considered a gross misdemeanor and considered a more serious form of crime. A person is charged with a Third Degree DWI when that person has one other DWI violation or DUI violation within the last 10 years. You may be charged with this level of DWI by refusing to take the Intoxilyzer test. Penalties for a Third Degree DWI can include up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine.
 

Second Degree DWI

Second Degree DWI charges in Minnesota are considered gross misdemeanors. A person is charged with Second Degree DWI when they have 2 or more prior DWI violations or DUI violations in the last 10 years. A person may be charged with this level of offense if they refuse to take Intoxylizer tests and have one other DWI or DUI violation within the previous 10 years. If convicted of a Second Degree DWI, a person may face up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine.
 

First Degree DWI

The most serious form of DWI, a First Degree DWI violation is considered a felony in the State of Minnesota. A First Degree DWI charge occurs when a person has four DWI violations within the last 10 years. A person convicted of First Degree DWI may face up to seven years in jail and a $14,000 fine.
 

Avoid or minimize the consequences by contacting Loraas & Loraas today for a free consultation. We can answer your questions and concerns. The sooner you call the better we can be prepared to benefit your case while gathering evidence in your favor.

Contact Loraas & Loraas today at 952-890-5324.