Top 5 MN DWI Mistakes (and How To Avoid Them)

One in seven drivers in the State of Minnesota has been arrested Drunk Driving. To many, an arrest for DWI is considered the biggest mistake of their lives. However, instead of learning from that mistake, all too often these same individuals compound that error in judgement by committing the following missteps. 

Here are the Top 5 Post-Arrest Minnesota DWI  mistakes:

#5 - Not Taking a MN DWI Arrest Seriously

As like with almost no other charge on the books in the State of Minnesota, an conviction for Drunk Driving will follow you around for the rest of your life. Couple that with the fact that - in addition to the penalties that a judge will impose - there will be life long consequences such as driver's license revocations and increased motor vehicle insurance charges that you'll have to navigate. Moreover, a conviction can NEVER be Expunged from your record.

#4 -  Failing to Appear for Court and/or Driving After Your License Was Revoked

If you fail to show up for court, the judge issue a warrant for your arrest Then, the next time you are stopped for a traffic infraction, you will be spending some time in jail and probably be posting some bail to insure your future appearance in court.  Oh, and if your driving at the time (without a valid driver's license) expect to get another ticket for that too.

#3 - Failing to Hire an Experienced Minnesota DWI Attorney

DWI law is complex and to ensure that your constitutional rights are protected and that your arguments are heard you really need competent representation on your side. To win the results you desire, someone must effectively raise the right defenses - at the right time) -or you will lose your right to argue them forever. If you fail to do that, a winnable case could quickly become a loser. Think of it like seeking medical attention - for cuts and scrapes maybe Dr. Mom is okay; but, if you need someone to counsel your through a major medical procedure... you're goning to need a real doctor. As such, if you not a lawyer, maybe you better turn over your case to someone who knows how the system works.  See also: Believing That Googling "Minnesota DWI Defenses" Will Help You Handle Your Own Case.

#3 -   Taking the Government's First Settlement Offer.

In my experience, as both a lawyer for the government and as an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney, I know that the first offer is seldom a bargain; rather it is often just a way for the prosecutor to get rid of a case without having to do too much work on it. Believe me, at this stage of the proceedings very few cases are dismissed or reduced to a non-alcohol related charge. In addition, if you just settle your case, you give up the biggest right you have - and that is to have the government prove its case against beyond a reasonable doubt. 

#2 -  Failing to Appear for Court and/or Driving After Your License Was Revoked

If you fail to show up for court, the judge issue a warrant for your arrest Then, the next time you are stopped for a traffic infraction, you will be spending some time in jail and probably be posting some bail to insure your future appearance in court.  Oh, and if your driving at the time (without a valid driver's license) expect to get another ticket for that too. 

#1 - Hiring an Attorney Based Only On What They're Charging

The government has nearly unlimited resources when it comes to prosecuting your case. To ensure your rights - and most specifically to preserve your future - you need to hire an attorney and pay a fee which will allow him to put in the time and effort your case requires to fight the state's case.  Attorneys must earn enough in the time they spend on your case in order to keep their doors open and make a living wage. If you choose your attorney based on the lowest bidder, he may not be able to put in the time necessary to protect you. He also may not have the right experience with Minnesota's DWI Laws. In stead of the cheapest guy - look for a reasonable, predictable fee.

What Should You Do?

When you hire a Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney, you should consider more than just price. Ask yourself this, in addition to the out-of-pocket-costs you'll incur --- what else is important to you?  Do you want personal attention, aggressive representation, someone who is experienced in getting his clients just and fair results?

Hey, I've worked on both sides of the aisle - as a prosecutor and a criminal defense attorney. I know the law, I know the government's schemes and motivations - and as a result, I know how to get my clients the results they desire.  Oh, and, I charge a reasonable, well-earned fee.

If you or someone you know needs effective representation - feel free to contact me today to schedule a free, no obligation consultation.