If a Minnesota police officer has taken you into custody for suspected drunk driving, this event may affect the next hours, days or even months of your life. It’s critical that you understand state laws. It is equally important to be aware of your rights, as well as how to build a strong defense. A DWI conviction can have stiff penalties that impede your ability to live a quality life and may even place your freedom at risk.
If you know what to expect following a DWI arrest, you perhaps won’t feel as overwhelmed or scared as you’d be if you were heading into the criminal justice system without any knowledge of how things work. While you might feel embarrassed about your arrest, you should never hesitate to reach out for support. In fact, this could be the key factor to obtaining a positive outcome.
Here’s what usually happens at the police station after a DWI arrest
Protocol may vary from place to place regarding the processing of a DWI arrest. However, the following list includes common regimens you can expect to navigate at the police station:
- They will take your photograph.
- You must submit to fingerprinting.
- The court may or may not release you from jail before seeing a judge.
- You’ll receive a summons to appear in court.
Whether the court releases you or holds you in jail depends on several issues, including whether you face charges for a felony and whether it’s a first offense. Some cases never make it to trial due to lack of evidence or unlawful arrest. If police did not act in accordance with the law leading up to or during the arrest, you can ask the judge to dismiss the case.
Refuting DWI charges in Minnesota
If the court hands down a DWI conviction, you’ll lose your driver’s license, at least temporarily. In some cases, you might be eligible for a hardship license, which is a restricted driver’s license that enables you to drive to and from your workplace. A judge may order you to enter a rehab program, perform community service and/or pay a substantial fine. You could also end up in jail.
There are several types of defense strategies that may be effective in a DWI case. Choosing the right strategy is a key to a positive outcome. Having an experienced advocate speaking on your behalf in court makes proceedings less stressful. You can begin building a defense right away by requesting legal representation immediately following your arrest.
