PinIn the state of Minnesota, a DWI conviction is classified into four: a First Degree DWI, a Second Degree DWI, a Third Degree DWI, and a Fourth Degree DWI. The degree of DWI charge you face is dependent on how many aggravating factors are present at the time of your arrest.
Each of the four degrees of DWI charges comes with a different set of consequences. While criminal penalties such as jail time and license suspension make up a large portion of the consequences, there are also a number of expenses that will arise.
How much will a Minnesota DWI defense actually cost you? Of course, it is nearly impossible to give an exact figure for the cost of a DWI. However, given that there are certain fees, fines, and other expenses you can expect to pay, the average cost for a first-time offense is roughly $10,000 – whether or not you hit anything or anybody.
Towing fees are one expense, since officers will generally only give you a few minutes to contact a sober driver to pick up your car. A tow truck will cost you anywhere from $100 to $200, not including impound fees.
Under Minnesota Law, a chemical use assessment is required, and will cost you between $150 and $250. You will also be charged $35 as criminal/traffic surcharge.
If you reach a plea agreement, a fine will be assessed at sentencing. For a first-time DWI, your misdemeanor can be sentenced with a fine of up to $1,000. This fine is significantly lower compared to someone who has been charged with DWI multiple times. Probation costs will be added, which can be anywhere from $100 to $250 depending on your county.
If you opt to challenge your license loss, you will need to pay a filing fee of approximately $320. This fee will go directly to the county where your DWI arrest occurred.
To have your driver’s license reinstated, you will need to pay about $700 in fees and surcharge. The total amount depends on the endorsements you have on your license. You will also be charged a driver’s license application fee apart from the reinstatement fee and surcharge.
If you need to drive right away and your license is subject to a lengthy revocation, your only option in Minnesota is the ignition interlock program. Use of the ignition interlock device costs roughly $125 a month.
Auto insurance premiums will also rise with a DWI conviction, usually increasing from $3,600 up to $6,000.
There are other factors you will need to take into consideration, such as cost of jail stay, bail, transportation expenses, and attorney’s fees.
DWI convictions can greatly impact your criminal record, which can consequently affect your income. If you have an existing DWI on your record, you could also risk either losing your existing job or having difficulty searching for a job with better earning potential.
As you can see, a DWI conviction can cost you a hefty amount of money as costs add up quickly. Therefore, it is extremely important that you seek the advice and assistance of an experienced DUI lawyer to help mitigate these potential consequences.. There is no doubt that an attorney with a lot of experience will also have a cost, but the value such representation can bring will pay dividends for you in the long run.
