Fourth Degree DWI
Third Degree DWI
Second Degree DWI
A person is charged with Second Degree DWI, a gross misdemeanor, if he or she has two prior DWI violations within ten years of the current offense. An individual with no prior DWI violations may still be charged with a 2nd Degree DWI if there are two aggravating factors present at the time of the offense, or if he or she refuses to submit to the evidentiary blood, urine, or breath test and there is one aggravating factor present at the time of the arrest. If convicted of Second Degree DWI, a person may face a fine of up to $3,000 and up to one year behind bars.
First Degree DWI
A person is charged with First Degree DWI, a felony, if he or she has three prior DWI violations within ten year of the current offense, or if he or she has been charged with a prior felony DWI at any point in the past. A person may also be charged with 1st degree DWI if he or she has a prior conviction for a felony charge of criminal vehicular homicide or criminal vehicular operation. No aggravating factors are taken into consideration. If convicted of First Degree DWI, a person may face a fine of up to $14,000 and up to seven years behind bars.
Hiring a DWI Minneapolis Lawyer
Of course, while the information provided is designed to give you the essential information on DWI laws, nothing can replace the legal advice and assistance of an actual professional. It is therefore important that you seek legal representation from a competent Minnesota drunk driving attorney who will ensure that your rights are protected.
Oftentimes, drivers charged with a first-time DWI opt not to hire a Minnesota DWI attorney. This, quite frankly, is a mistake, as penalties associated with DWI cases are anything but minor. If you are charged with a DWI again in the future, then you may face severe penalties.
If you or a loved one faces a DWI charge in Minnesota, contact Douglas T. Kans of the Kans Law Firm as soon as possible.