Wednesday, July 27, 2011

The True Cost of a Minnesota DWI




If you've been arrested for DWI - chances are criminal charges are probably not far behind. But, believe me the "cost" of those charges is going to be more than just the fine or the jail time you could receive if you plead and/or are found to be guilty of that offense. This is why, when you approach the question of whether you should hire an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney , you should look at it as an investment in your future - to preserve not only your rights... but also your pocketbook.

What You Could Be Facing

For someone convicted of Drunk Driving, the possible penalties you could face include: revocation of your driver's license, fines, and in some cases - jail time. However, in addition to the penalty a judge could impose, you could also be facing a number of hidden penalties.  One of these is the threat of an increase to your car insurance.  A conviction for Drunk Driving can double or even triple your rates in the short term.  One company, Progressive, asserts that they'll seek to charge you approximately double what you were previously paying if you are convicted of a DWI and that you should expect to pay that rate for it for at least a few years.
 
Another great article (link here) making almost the same point - suggests that unless your cab fare would be in excess of $10,000 - you may want to strongly consider paying pay for that taxi. 
 
Do the math, and after you add up the fines and the fees - as well as the increased insurance premiums - the final total will likely run into the thousands of dollars. Add to that the prospect of a criminal record that will follow you wherever you go - and I would hope that you see just how seriously you need to take these matters. 

Remember, you really only get one chance at these things; wouldn't you do whatever it took to protect yourself for the long term?


What Can You Do?
 
Understand this -  the money you spend today, could be the only insurance you have against the additional costs that you'll most assuredly have to pay in the future.  If you've been charged with a DWI you really need to consider the services of an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney to represent you - if not for the here and now - then for the days and years to come. 

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