From August 20, 2010 through September 6, 2010 the Minnesota law enforcement agencies renewed their DWI arrest efforts throughout the State of Minnesota.  During this period of time nearly 1,800 Minnesota drivers were arrested for DWI.  332 law enforcement agencies contributed to this total.  Ironically, nearly 3,000 people were ticketed for seat-belt violations during the same period of time. 

What should you know about getting a DWI criminal charge in Minnesota?

First, you should understand the level of DWI criminal charges in Minnesota. 

Fourth Degree DWI is a misdemeanor.  If convicted, you may be subject to a penalty of 90 days in jail and or $1,000 fine.

Third Degree DWI is a gross misdemeanor.  If convicted, you may be subject to a penalty of 365 days in jail and or $3,000 fine.

Second Degree DWI is a gross misdemeanor.  If convicted, you may be subject to a penalty of 365 days in jail and or $3,000 fine.

First Degree DWI is a felony.  If convicted, you may be subject to a penalty of 7 years in prison and or $14,000 fine.

For more information on what constitutes a specific level please reference our Minnesota DWI ǀ DUI Lawyer page or contact our office directly at 612-381-0303.

Second, in addition to the criminal penalties mentioned above, you will face administrative sanctions such as LICENSE REVOCATIONS or loss of your driving privileges.  The length of the driver’s license revocation is dependent upon the circumstances of your case.  For instance, if you are older than 21 years old, have no prior alcohol related incidences and tested above the legal limit but below a blood alcohol concentration of 0.20, then your revocation will be 90 days.  However, you are eligible for a reduction and a limited use license under Minnesota law.  Additionally, in the State of Minnesota, a law enforcement officer has the legal right to SEIZE A MOTOR VEHICLE used in certain DWI cases. 

Why is law enforcement temporarily focusing on certain crimes?  Is it important?

This latest effort is claimed to be the result of the Minnesota’s statewide traffic safety initiative, TZD or Toward Zero Deaths, focuses on four strategic areas (1) education, (2) enforcement, (3) engineering, and (4) emergency trauma response.

Remember, the odds of being pulled over have risen in Minnesota.   Police may stop you for your seat belt or texting violation and expand the scope of that stop to investigate other suspected criminal activity. 

If you have questions or comments, please do not hesitate to contact this office at (612) 381-0303.