A Minnesota DWI Arrest might end up costing you more than you think.
Getting convicted for DWI in Minnesota can carry a number of criminal and administrative penalties. You could face jail time, probation, losing your license, and fines. Beyond the direct consequences of a Minnesota DWI, the secondary financial consequences could impact you for many years after. For these reasons, it is critical to hire an experienced Minneapolis DWI attorney to defend your rights in both the criminal case and license revocation (AKA Implied consent hearing). Below is a little information on the potential financial consequences of being arrested for DWI in Minnesota.
More Information on Minnesota DWI, Test Refusal, or Implied Consent
It is important to understand that being arrested for DWI will result in two separate cases being brought against you, the criminal case and the license revocation proceeding. If convicted of DWI in the criminal proceeding, a first-time offender charged with Fourth Degree DWI will face a fine of at least $1,000. The fine is going to vary based on the exact charge. A Fourth Degree DWI is considered a misdemeanor, but a multiple DWI offender in Minnesota is going to be charged with a higher level DWI. Multiple offenders will pay higher fines and be required to serve more jail time. A first time DWI offender in Minnesota can potentially serve a 90-day jail sentence.
Upon being arrested, your Minnesota driver’s license will be revoked. This is where your wallet could really feel the pain. Although it might take a few months after your DWI arrest, your insurance rates will close to double. Over the next five years, you will be ineligible for the preferred insurance rates that keep it affordable. Ultimately, a Minnesota DWI is estimated to cost, on average, a total of around $10,000. If during the period your license is revoked, you decide to enroll in Minnesota’s ignition interlock program, you will be independently responsible for paying for the installation and upkeep of the breath test instrument.
Protect Your Rights
An experienced Minnesota DWI lawyer can help you protect your rights and minimize financial losses. The Minnesota criminal defense attorneys at Brockton D. Hunter P.A. have been fighting for clients charged with DWI in Minnesota for over 15 years. If you or a loved one has been arrested for DWI, or you have questions on Minnesota’s DWI and Implied Consent Laws, contact a Minnesota DWI attorney today for a free consultation.