Lawyers Defending First Time DWI Charges Throughout The Minneapolis-St. Paul Area and greater Minnesota
A first arrest for driving while impaired (DWI) can feel frightening, confusing, and shameful. The DWI defense attorneys at Ryan Pacyga Criminal Defense understand. We have helped guide hundreds of people through the legal and administrative processes involved in a DWI case. We can help you, too. For experienced legal advice and representation, call us at 612-474-5420. A Ryan Pacyga Criminal Defense attorney is available to speak with you at your convenience.
CHARGED WITH A DWI? WHAT NOW?
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What You Should Know After A First DWI Arrest
- You are not alone. Minnesota Department of Health reports that about one in seven people in Minnesota have a DWI. You are not a statistic, and neither are our clients. We work tirelessly to help real people who are often facing fallout from the worst day of their live. We’ve been there and we know how to help!
- It can happen to anyone. Our attorneys have represented people in all walks of life from tradesmen to police officers, white collar workers and executives, doctors, lawyers, professional and collegiate athletes, teachers, homemakers, and members of the clergy. Anyone can be arrested for DUI/DWI and we are proud to serve our clients, no matter the personal or professional background.
- Just because you tested at .08 or more does not mean that you will be found guilty! We have represented many people who tested over .08, over .16 and even over .20 and had their cases either completely thrown out or significantly reduced.
- It doesn’t mean that you are a bad person. Today, drunk driving laws are so strict that it is easy to reach a blood alcohol content of 0.08 without realizing it. Depending on your body weight, your biology, and what you ate you can easily exceed the legal blood alcohol limit without knowing it.
- Drunk driving laws are complicated. Potential penalties vary depending on your age, blood alcohol level, and driving record.
- There are potentially two cases. If you are arrested for DWI, the state prosecutes a DWI under the criminal laws. However, the DMV also is allowed to revoke your driving privileges through implied consent laws. You may consider challenging the revocation through a petition process.
- We recommend you hire an attorney. When you go to court, any judge will advise an unrepresented person that they have the right to have an attorney represent them, and often we hear judges further advise that an unrepresented person get some legal advice on their DWI before making any decisions. A lawyer can advise you on your rights, potential options, including that you have rights under the law to challenge a DMV license revocation and any plate impoundment orders. Our lawyers can help you decide on the course of action that is most advantageous to you, given the specific facts of your case.
What You Should Know About Ryan Pacyga Criminal Defense
- We have an impressive record of success even in difficult cases. Our DWI attorneys regularly take cases to court and have them dismissed or resolved through effective plea negotiation which can often protect your record and lessen the consequences. We have been successful in helping clients retain the right to drive and minimize the period of license suspension.
- An attorney is available to speak with you immediately. Talking to a lawyer right away can set your mind at ease. We will clearly explain the issues you are facing and describe how we can help. You can reach out online, or speak to a Ryan Pacyga Criminal Defense attorney by calling 612-474-5420.
- We’re here to help. Our lawyers will work to get the criminal charges against you dismissed or reduced and protect your right to drive. In addition, we will refer you to resources that can help you address any nonlegal issues that may have led to the arrest. Our goal is to help you improve your life in and out of court.
A first DWI is never a pleasant experience, but it isn’t the end of the world. In fact, it can be a wake-up call to help you avoid other, more serious problems.
Frequently Asked Questions About Driving While Intoxicated
Facing a Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) charge in Minneapolis can be a daunting experience, with potential repercussions that extend beyond the courtroom. Understanding the possible consequences and legal processes involved is crucial for navigating this situation effectively.
What are the potential consequences of a first-time DWI offense?
The potential consequences for a first-time DWI offense can include:
- Fines
- License suspension
- Mandatory participation in a DWI education program, community service
- Probation
- Jail time
The severity of the consequences may depend on factors such as blood alcohol concentration (BAC) at the time of arrest and any aggravating circumstances, like accidents or injuries.
Will a first-time DWI offense result in permanently revoking my driver’s license?
A first-time DWI offense does not result in permanent revocation of your driver’s license. However, it can lead to a temporary license suspension. You can generally expect to lose your license for 90 days upon conviction, and for up to a year if your BAC level is .16% or more.
Can a first-time DWI offense be expunged from my record in Minnesota?
It is possible to have a first-time DWI expunged in Minnesota – but it is not easy, inexpensive nor guaranteed. The offense must be a misdemeanor, but you must complete your sentence, including any mandatory probation and payment of fines. You may also have to go through an alcohol diversion program and you must not have any other convictions within two years.
It is far better to avoid a conviction in the first place, whenever possible, which is why you need an experienced advocate who will aggressively defend you even for a first-time DWI.