Put Your Trust In The DWI Guys

The Minnesota DWI Lawyers You Need

Last updated on April 29, 2025

Facing charges related to driving while under the influence (DWI) in Minnesota can feel like carrying the world on your shoulders. At The DWI Guys, P.A., we know the anxiety and concern these allegations bring. As your dedicated DWI counsel, we’re here to ease your burden and steer you through the intricate legal terrain.

Our team of DWI defense attorneys has amassed 40 years of combined experience, serving clients across Minnesota since 2005. We focus solely on DWI cases, offering direct, personal communication without intermediaries. Our mission is simple: to make you feel supported, valued, and confident that we’ve got your back.

The Reality Of DWI In Minnesota

DWI charges carry serious weight in Minnesota. Whether it’s your first offense or a repeat incident, the fallout can be severe. As your DWI defense attorney, we pledge to safeguard your rights and help you pursue a fair outcome.

Minnesota’s DWI laws are intricate and ever-changing. You need a DUI attorney who keeps pace with the latest legal shifts. Our Minnesota drunk driving attorneys are knowledgeable in all DWI law aspects, from field sobriety tests to breathalyzer precision and constitutional protections.

Minnesota law sets strict limits on blood alcohol concentration (BAC) levels. For drivers 21 and older, the legal limit is .08%. However, commercial drivers face a lower threshold of .04%, while drivers under 21 must adhere to a zero-tolerance policy. There are many variables that interact with these differing alcohol limits to trigger additional penalties, and understanding the nuances of these interactions is crucial in building a strong defense strategy while navigating pathways to eliminate or lessen those penalties.

Our DWI Defense Services

As your DWI lawyer, we provide full-spectrum support throughout your case. Here’s what we offer:

In-depth case assessment: We scrutinize every detail of your arrest and the evidence against you.
Skilled prosecutor negotiations: We leverage our experience to seek the favorable plea bargains when appropriate.
Robust court representation: We fiercely advocate for you in front of judges and juries.
License reinstatement assistance: We guide you through the process of reclaiming your driving privileges.

We strive to lessen the impact a DWI charge can have on your life, exploring every legal avenue and defense strategy at our disposal. Our goal goes beyond the courtroom – we want to help you maintain your quality of life and future prospects.

Understanding The Minnesota DWI Process

A DWI charge in Minnesota triggers both criminal and administrative proceedings. Knowing what lies ahead is crucial. Here is a snapshot of the process:

Arrest and booking: This includes field sobriety tests, breathalyzer tests and potential blood draws or urine samples.
Arraignment: Your first court appearance where charges are formally read.
Pre-trial Hearings: These may include motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
Trial (when necessary): Without a plea agreement, your case may proceed to trial.
Sentencing (if convicted): The judge determines penalties based on various factors.

You’ll also need to address driving privilege issues with the Minnesota Department of Public Safety. This administrative process runs parallel to your criminal case and can result in license suspension or revocation. Our seasoned DUI attorneys will walk you through both processes, ensuring you grasp each step and maintain your rights.

What Are The Consequences?

When it comes to drunk driving, things can move very fast as soon as the police pull you over. There are many crucial considerations to make at a traffic stop – one of these is seeking legal help. This is because a DWI conviction in Minnesota can upend your life. Potential repercussions include:

Hefty fines and court fees: First-time offenders may face fines up to $1,000, with costs escalating for repeat offenses.
Jail time: Sentences can range from days to years, depending on the offense severity.
Driver’s license suspension or revocation: This can last from 90 days to several years.
Mandatory alcohol education programs: These aim to prevent future offenses.
Ignition interlock device installation: This requires passing a breathalyzer to start your vehicle.
Skyrocketing insurance premiums: Expect significant increases in your auto insurance rates.

As your DWI defense attorney, we’ll fight to minimize these impacts and help you regain your footing. We understand that a DWI charge doesn’t define you, and we’re committed to helping you move past this challenging time.

Our Firm Knows DWIs

With 40 years of combined experience, we’ve tackled a myriad of DWI cases across Minnesota. This depth of experience allows us to anticipate prosecution strategies and craft effective countermeasures. We can offer you:

Laser focus: Our exclusive concentration on DWI defense keeps us at the cutting edge of this specialized legal area. We stay abreast of all legislative changes and new defense techniques.
One-on-one attention: You’ll work directly with your attorney, ensuring clear communication and custom-fit defense strategies. We believe in building strong attorney-client relationships based on trust and transparency.
Statewide reach: We represent clients throughout Minnesota, with intimate knowledge of local courts and procedures. This familiarity with different jurisdictions can be a significant advantage in your case.
Solid results: While we can’t promise specific outcomes, our track record of successful defenses speaks volumes. We’ve helped numerous clients reduce charges, minimize penalties, or achieve case dismissals.

We recognize the stress you’re under and aim to smooth out the legal journey for you. Our team provides not just legal support, but emotional support during this challenging time.

What We Can Do For You

As your DWI defense attorney, we employ a meticulous approach to your case. For example, we can pursue:

Exhaustive investigation: We scrutinize all evidence, from police reports to breathalyzer results, seeking any inconsistencies or rights violations. This includes reviewing officer conduct, testing procedures, and maintenance records of testing equipment.
Tailor-made defense: Each case is unique. We craft a defense strategy that fits your specific circumstances, whether that involves challenging evidence, negotiating plea deals, or preparing for trial.
Fierce advocacy: Whether we’re negotiating with prosecutors or presenting in court, we champion your rights vigorously. Our attorneys are known for their persuasive arguments and unwavering dedication to clients.
Transparent communication: We keep you in the loop consistently, breaking down legal jargon into plain language. You’ll always know the status of your case and the rationale behind our strategic decisions.
Holistic support: We assist with license reinstatement procedures and offer guidance on managing post-DWI charge life. This includes advice on dealing with employment issues, fulfilling court-ordered requirements and rebuilding your life after a DWI incident.

Even so, a DWI charge can leave you with many questions and concerns. We can help you with these, too.

Frequently Asked Questions

Our clients often raise concerns about DWI charges in Minnesota. Here are some frequent questions we tackle:

Can I get a DWI on a bicycle in Minnesota? Minnesota’s DWI laws cover all “motorized vehicles,” which would only include a bicycle if it is being powered by something more than a human operator. However, if you ride a bicycle while impaired and end up causing an accident with injuries, you could be liable civilly for damages or personal injuries caused by the accident.
What steps do I take to regain my license after a DWI? Reclaiming your license post-DWI hinges on several factors, including whether it’s your first offense and your case specifics. You might need to finish any court-mandated suspension period, pay reinstatement fees and potentially install an ignition interlock device.

Can I get my charges dismissed if the arresting officer did not read me my Miranda rights?

Not necessarily. In Minnesota, Miranda rights must be read only if you are in custody and being interrogated. If the officer did not question you while in custody or if any questioning happened before you were officially detained, then Miranda does not apply.

The failure to read Miranda rights may lead to the suppression of any statements you made after arrest, but it will not automatically dismiss your charges. The rest of the evidence, like breath tests or officer observations, can still be used against you.

How does a DWI affect my insurance rates?

A DWI conviction in Minnesota can raise your insurance rates. Insurers view DWIs as high-risk behavior. On average, your premium could double or even triple.

Some companies might even drop you entirely. A DWI stays on your driving record for 10 years, and insurers check records for the past three to five years when determining rates. You might have to switch to a high-risk insurer and file an SR-22, which proves that you carry the minimum required coverage.

What substances could lead to a DWI charge?

In Minnesota, you can be charged with DWI for more than just alcohol. Any substance that impairs your ability to drive can qualify, including:

Illegal drugs like marijuana, methamphetamine or cocaine
Prescription medications, especially if they cause drowsiness or slowed reactions
Over-the-counter medications, such as cold or allergy meds that impair alertness
Any controlled substance found in your system, even if you are not visibly impaired

You can be charged with DWI if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is .08% or higher, or if you are under the influence of any drug or intoxicating substance that affects your ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Minnesota law takes drug-impaired driving just as seriously as alcohol-related cases. If you have been charged with a DWI, The DWI Guys, P.A., is ready to fight for you. Our lawyers have successfully helped thousands of clients with their DWI cases.

If you find yourself in this situation, our team will guide you through each step and clarify your options.

We’ll Stand Up For You

If you’re grappling with a DWI charge in Minnesota, seeking legal help promptly is crucial. The earlier you bring a DWI lawyer on board, the better your chances of a positive outcome. At The DWI Guys, P.A., we stand ready to fight by your side and defend your rights.

Remember, a DWI charge need not dictate your future. With a skilled DWI defense attorney, you can weather this storm and move forward. We offer free consultations, so you have nothing to lose by reaching out. Call us today at 612-497-1217 or reach out through our online form for your confidential, no-cost consultation and discover how we can support you.