Eden Prairie DWI Defense Lawyer

Facing DWI Charges in Eden Prairie, MN?

Being arrested for and charged with DWI is a very serious matter. Not only are you facing a criminal conviction, but you are also facing the loss of your driving privileges. In Minnesota, a first-time DWI offender can face up to 90 days in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, and the loss of their driver’s license for up to one year. The penalties only get worse for subsequent offenses.

Given the significant consequences, it is highly recommended that you reach out to a skilled DWI attorney in Eden Prairie as soon as possible. The legal team at Tamburino Law Group is standing by to take your call. Our attorneys have a proven record of success in even the most complex DWI cases. We can help you fight your charges and, when possible, work to minimize the consequences you face.

Don’t face your DWI charges alone. Call our Eden Prairie DWI defense lawyers at (612) 444-5020 today to request your free consultation.

What is the Legal Limit for DWI in Minnesota?

Like all other states, Minnesota has set a legal limit for how much alcohol a driver can have in their system before they are considered to be driving under the influence. For most drivers, the legal limit is 0.08%. For commercial drivers, the legal limit is 0.04%. For drivers under the age of 21, the legal limit is 0.00%.

It is important to note that you can still be charged with and convicted of DWI in Minnesota even if your BAC is below the legal limit. If an officer believes you are too impaired to drive safely, you can be arrested and charged with DWI, regardless of your BAC. This is often the case when a driver is under the influence of drugs or a combination of drugs and alcohol.

What Are the Penalties for DWI in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, DWI penalties will vary based on the specific circumstances involved. For example, a driver who is charged with DWI for the first time will face less severe penalties than a driver who is charged with DWI for the third time. DWI penalties will also vary based on the specific facts of the case, such as whether the driver had a child in the vehicle or whether anyone was injured as a result of the driver’s intoxication.

That said, the following are the general DWI penalties in Minnesota:

• First offense: Up to 90 days in jail, up to $1,000 in fines, and the loss of your driver’s license for up to one year
• Second offense: Up to one year in jail, up to $3,000 in fines, and the loss of your driver’s license for up to two years
• Third offense: Up to one year in jail, up to $3,000 in fines, and the loss of your driver’s license for up to six years
• Fourth or subsequent offense: Up to seven years in prison, up to $14,000 in fines, and the loss of your driver’s license for up to six years

These penalties not only affect your immediate freedom and finances but can also have long-term repercussions on your employment and personal life. Additionally, offenders often face mandatory attendance in alcohol education programs, increased insurance rates, and potential impacts on professional licenses.

In addition to these penalties, you may also be required to install an ignition interlock device (IID) in your vehicle at your own expense. An IID is a device that requires you to pass a breath test before you can start your vehicle. If the device detects alcohol on your breath, your vehicle will not start. The length of time you are required to have the IID in your vehicle will depend on the specific facts of your case.

The Importance of Hiring a Local DWI Attorney

Selecting a local DWI attorney provides numerous advantages, including familiarity with regional courts and relationships with local officials. Attorneys from Tamburino Law Group leverage their relationships and regional experience to advocate effectively for their clients.

Our understanding of Eden Prairie's legal environment allows us to tailor defense strategies that are not only informed by state law but also by local legal nuances. This localized knowledge is vital for crafting bespoke defenses that address unique circumstances, promoting beneficial outcomes for our clients.

FAQs About DWI Defense in Eden Prairie

• What Should I Do Immediately After a DWI Arrest?
  After a DWI arrest, it is important to cooperate with law enforcement while maintaining your right to remain silent when it comes to self-incriminating questions. Contacting a reputable DWI attorney as soon as possible is vital. Attorneys at Tamburino Law Group can begin building your defense and guide you through legal proceedings, which can be daunting without professional support.
• How Does a DWI Affect My Driver's License in Minnesota?
  In Minnesota, a DWI can result in the immediate suspension of your driver's license, with the possibility of contesting this through an administrative hearing. The length of suspension varies based on factors like BAC level and prior offenses. Tamburino Law Group provides guidance on navigating these hearings and explores potential avenues for temporary license reinstatement.
• Can I Refuse a Breath Test in Minnesota?
  While you are legally entitled to refuse a preliminary breath test in Minnesota, such refusal can result in immediate license suspension and additional penalties. Understanding the consequences of refusal and the nuances of implied consent laws is essential. Our attorneys can explain these intricacies and formulate strategies to deal with any penalties incurred from refusal.
• What Are Aggravating Factors in a DWI Case?
  Aggravating factors can significantly increase DWI penalties and include elements such as having a minor in the vehicle, previous DWI convictions, and having a BAC significantly above the legal limit. Being informed about these factors can help in understanding potential case outcomes. Tamburino Law Group meticulously examines each case element to identify mitigating strategies.
• How Long Does a DWI Stay on My Record in Minnesota?
  In Minnesota, a DWI conviction stays on your record permanently, impacting both your driving and criminal record:
  • Driving Record:
    A DWI remains on your driving record for life because Minnesota uses a 10-year lookback period for repeat offenses. This means any DWI offenses within a 10-year window can be used against you.
  • Criminal Record:
    While a DWI can potentially be expunged from your criminal record, the process is challenging and rare. To be eligible:
    • You must complete your entire sentence, including jail time, probation, and fines.
    • You must avoid committing any other crimes for at least two years after the DWI offense.
    • The expungement process can take 4–6 months and involves costs.

Consulting an experienced DWI attorney can help you explore your options and better understand the expungement process.

How Our Eden Prairie DWI Defense Attorneys Can Help You

Our team believes that everyone is innocent until proven guilty. We also believe that everyone deserves a fair chance to defend themselves in a court of law. When you turn to us for help, we will fight aggressively on your behalf, working to protect your rights and your future every step of the way.

Our Eden Prairie DWI defense attorneys have successfully handled thousands of cases. We have also earned the respect of the local legal community, as well as numerous accolades from our peers. When you need a legal advocate in Eden Prairie, choose Tamburino Law Group.

Call us at (612) 444-5020 or contact us online today to get started by scheduling a free consultation.