Minnesota Disorderly Conduct (Explained)

Disorderly conduct is the “one-size-fits-all” misdemeanor that appears to apply to a broad range of conduct, and is therefore subject to use/abuse by over-reaching prosecutors. As an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney, I have represented many clients in Disorderly Conduct cases across the state. I have achieved dismissals in many cases.  Here is what you need to know - to get the right result.

The Law

To be convicted of Disorderly Conduct, in the State of Minnesota, the government must prove that a person did any one of the following acts.

• Engaged in brawling or fighting.
• Disturbed an assembly or meeting, not unlawful in its character.
• Engaged in offensive, obscene, abusive, boisterous, or noisy conduct or in offensive, obscene, or abusive language tending reasonably to arouse alarm, anger, or resentment in others.

What You Should Do?

 

There are a number of defenses available to a person charged with Disorderly Conduct, and chief among these is the First Amendment, which guarantees every citizen a right to freedom of expression and speech. 

 

In a Disorderly Conduct case, a prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the person charged engaged in criminal, unprotected speech. This includes, for example, what the courts have termed “fighting words” (ie., words or gestures that are so insulting that it is likely to provoke an ordinary person to fight.)  In deciding whether certain speech rises to the level of “fighting words,” the court should examine a variety of factors, including the specific words uttered, the alleged victim’s ability to diffuse the situation through methods other than fighting, and other conduct by the perpetrator at the time of the incident.

 

 
If you have been charged with the crime of Disorderly Conduct, it may be the case that you did not commit a crime at all. The laws of the State of Minnesota allows for multiple defenses to this charge. The Rolloff Law Office is available to help you, and answer any questions you may have. Feel free to contact me for a no-cost consultation: (612) 234-1165

How To Beat a Shoplifting Charge

 
If you are caught Shoplifting, even something as small as a pack of gun, in the Twin Cities, you could end up in jail.  Therefore, you should strongly consider getting help from an experienced Minnesota Shoplifting Attorney.

How to Address a Theft Charge

Everybody knows about shoplifting. It’s when someone takes something from a store without paying for it. While this is something people often associate with teenagers --- this offense knows no common offender.  

There are a number of defense strategies that can be used to keep a conviction from going on your record.  

No Intent: In the State of Minnesota - the government is required to prove an intent to permanently deprive property from its rightful owner.  If the prosecution cannot prove that the accused intended to walk out of the store without paying for the items, they cannot convict you of Theft.

Not Enough Proof:  The accused is innocent until proven guilty. Even if you someone one testifies against you --- you may not be convicted.  This strategy often requires a consultation with a lawyer about how to challenge the eyewitness' accounts --- finding inconsistencies that would show that they are wrong.  

Other: a good Criminal Defense Attorney can help you avoid jail and/or a fine --- even if you are dead-to-rights guilty/without a defense.  

Contact the Rolloff Law Office - today - an get the answers you need to keep a conviction from going on your criminal record.   FREE: (612) 234-1165

What To Do When you're Arrested (Explained)

Almost every cop show on TV has suspects doing the exact opposite of what an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney would recommend you do in the same situation.  Another way TV and real life are not remotely alike ... bummer.

Here's What You Should Do

To avoid any unnecessary drama, if possible, you should do the following if you're ever arrested:

1. Remain calm.
2. Do not resist arrest. Minnesota law does not allow the right to resist an arrest, even if you believe it to be an illegal one. 
3. Do not make any statements to the police. Anything you say can and will be used against you in court. Your actions, if arrested, should be simply to say: “I would like to speak with my attorney.” This is your legal right, and the only thing you should say. 
4. Never lie. You are under no obligation to speak to law enforcement authorities. However, if you choose to speak to them, you are obligated to speak truthfully. If it can later be shown that you provided false information, you could be charged with making false statements or aiding an offender to escape arrest or prosecution. 
5. Do not give permission to search anywhere. If the arresting officer asks, it’s generally because he/she knows that they don’t have the right to search and need your consent. If you are ordered to hand over your keys, state that they do not have your permission to search. 
6. Do not believe what the police tell you in order to get you to talk.The law permits them to lie to a suspect in order to get you to make admissions. 
7. Do call your lawyer. You do have the right to make a local phone call and the police cannot listen if you call a lawyer. 
8. Do not invite the police into your home nor should you “step outside.” If the police believe you’ve committed a felony, they usually need an arrest warrant to go into your home to arrest you. If they ask you to step outside, they no longer need a warrant. Simply state that you’re comfortable talking right where you are. 
9. Do not accept an offer by police to let you go inside if you are arrested outside. When the police escort you inside, they’ll likely conduct a search without a warrant. Decline offers to secure your car safely for the same reason. 
10. Do have cash on hand to make bail. If you don’t and you are arrested on a Friday night, you’re in for a long week end in jail.

The truth is - in situations like an arrest --- the cops are not your friends.  They have a job to do --- and all too often that gets in the way of their ability to access common sense.

If you or someone you live needs help --- call a lawyer!  Get free answers by calling the Rolloff Law Office: (612) 234-1165.  

Hire an Affordable Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney

As an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney, I get a lot of questions about what individuals should consider when looking to hire a criminal attorney.

Among the many things you must consider, such as: do you feel comfortable with the attorney when you meet them face-to-face; is he going to spend the time necessary to understand the particulars of your case; and can he explain to you what to expect in terms of potential outcomes, and the risks involved --- you also need to look at these things.

1. EXPERIENCE, EXPERIENCE, EXPERIENCE 

There simply is no substitute for hands-on experience in a criminal courtroom. It is by far the most important consideration in choosing a criminal lawyer. Every case is different, as are the personalities of each, judge, prosecutor and law enforcement officer. Attorneys that have been around the local legal landscape for a long time tend to be more expensive, but it is often money well spent. Former prosecutors are often good bets, as assistant county attorneys have often had extensive trial and plea bargaining experience that someone who starts out on the defense side might not have.

BUT, keep this in mind: If you have a unique case, or an especially complex case, younger lawyers with moderate experience tend to be hungry. They are eager to establish their own reputations. They will have more time to research caselaw and do background investigation. They will pour blood, sweat and tears into your defense. They might be willing to try a novel legal argument much quicker than a more established attorney. A less-established attorney will also have more time to spend with you one-on-one. They will have fewer cases, and will probably be paid less for each of those cases, so each case to the less-established attorney is important.

2. AVOID ATTORNEYS WHO PROMISE OUTCOMES

Criminal attorneys are seldom assured of any particular outcome in a case. We operate in a field that is filled with uncertainty. We can, however, offer you a forecast of what to expect when your case goes to court.

3. STREET SMARTS

Common sense and how the real world works is important. We are a people-based practice area, and have to understand practical realities. A grasp of legal statutes is critical, but criminal lawyers spend far more time with real people than holed up in law libraries.

4. COMMUNICATION SKILLS AND LISTENING

Look for an attorney that can explain the law to you in easy to understand terms. Does the attorney listen to your story without interruptions? Does he or she explain to you possible defenses you may have to a particular charge? If you come away from an initial consultation feeling befuddled or misunderstood, look for another lawyer.

5. SOMEONE WHO IS NOT AFRAID TO GO TO TRIAL

The client always controls the decision of whether to accept a plea offer or go to trial. Plea bargaining often results in the best possible outcome for a client. Good things, however, can also come from forcing the State to prove its case. Let your intuition tell you whether this is an attorney you can go into battle with.

As a Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney, I pride myself on providing the best representation possible. I'm a former prosecutor (and before that I clerked for a judge) --- if it has happened in the courtroom I've seen and done it.  For more information or to schedule a free consultation, call the Rolloff Law Office today: (612) 234-1165.  Or, for more information, visit my website: rollofflaw.com.

Minnesota Drug Possession Charges (Explained)

Possession of drugs in the State of Minnesota is a serious crime, regardless of how much or how little you are caught with. However, there are ways to beat these charges.

Possession of Drug Crimes


If you are charged with possession of drugs - you can either be facing a felony or a gross misdemeanor complaint depending on the amount in your possession and the circumstances surrounding the arrest. 


All drug crimes are tried in a separate Minnesota court and follow a different set of rules. It is important that you seek legal advice from an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney as soon as you are arrested or accused of any drug possession crime.


Examples of charges:

• Possession of narcotics with the intent to sell
• Possession of marijuana
• Possession of narcotics
• Possession of marijuana with the intent to sell
• Possession of certain chemicals with the intent to manufacturer
• Possession of drug paraphernalia

What Are the Consequences?

Your penalty will depend of a number of factors including how much drugs you had in your possession, what was the intent of having this drug and what drugs were you caught with. Your criminal record may also play a role in your punishment. If you have been convicted of any drug crime in the past, then you could be looking at more severe penalties this time around.  Penalties for drug crimes include fines and fees, community service, drug rehabilitation in some instances and jail time.

Defenses


Even the tiniest joint or minute traces of cocaine or methamphetamine can end up on your permanent record. Furthermore, if you are found in possession of scales, a pipe or plastic baggies, you could also be arrested for possession of drug paraphernalia. The more drugs found in your possession, the worse your punishment will be, especially if there are suspicions that you were planning on selling the drugs. Possession of drugs for personal use is considered a lot less severe than possession of drugs with the intent to distribute. However, a crime is still a crime and will end up on your permanent record if convicted.

It is important to understand that just because you have been arrested for drug possession does not automatically make you a convicted criminal, or a bad person. There are a number of defense strategies to take when faced with a possession drug crime. If the drugs are not clearly in your possession (in your pocket), then there may be a case for mistaken identity. You could plead that the drugs found in your car or house were not yours. If the drugs were discovered during an illegal search and seizure that violated your right to privacy, then the evidence collected cannot be used against you.  The Rolloff Law Office will assess your case, gather evidence, consult with experts and determine the best defense tactics to take for your situation.

What You Should Do Next

Don’t let one mistake ruin the rest of your life. The Rolloff Law Office is there when you need us most. It is important to act fast when facing an arrest and criminal conviction. Let me put my experience as a former prosecutor to work for you to provide an aggressive representation and the legal assistance you need to ensure the best outcome possible for your case. Call today to set up a FREE consultation: (612) 234-1165.

Minnesota Criminal Defense Questions (Answered)

As an expereinced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney I get questions - lots and lots of questions.  Here are some of the most common ones.

How do I choose an attorney?

When you are facing criminal charges, the quality and commitment of your defense attorney is a crucial issue. Will the attorney take the time to focus on your case? Will you be "just another number"? At The Rolloff Law Office, we provide personal legal services on a one-on-one basis, and our results-oriented approach to defending charges and our reasonable rates can allow you to have the quality defender you need, as well as the personal attention to your case that is actually necessary if you are hoping to avoid a conviction.

Will I go to jail for a Minnesota DWI charge?

Any DWI offense carries the potential of jail time. Under Minnesota Statues, chapter 169A, even a first time DWI conviction can mean up to 90 days in jail and a fine of $1,000. This is in a simple DWI offense, without any aggravating factors or a breath test refusal. If you have a prior conviction of DWI within the last 10 years, including a test refusal or other aggravating factor, you could face third degree charges, which are punishable by up to 1 year in jail as well as a fine of $3,000. Felony DWI charges, when convicted can lead to up to 7 years in prison and a $14,000 fine. These cases involve 3 prior convictions, or one prior felony DWI conviction. Any DWI or DUI charge is serious and should be aggressively defended.

What if I discover I am under investigation for a violent crime?

If you are under investigation and not yet arrested, you can assume that an arrest will take place in the near future. It is crucial that you exercise your right to remain silent and do not engage in any interviews with law enforcement or other investigatory units without first retaining the services of an attorney. Protecting your rights in any questions can be a pivotal factor in defending against the charges when they are filed.

What criminal charges does your office defend?

The Rolloff Law Office is committed to providing an aggressive defense against all types of criminal charges, from any Drunk Driving arrest, through to probation violations or charges of Assault, Drug Charges, Disorderly Conduct to any manner of Theft crimes --- from Misdemeanors to Felonys.  Expereince criminal defense representation unlike any youve ever known before - that's a promise.  Call today: (612) 234-1165.

Minnesota Self-Defense (Explained)

In my humble opinion, too many Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorneys fail to consider the best "weapon" in their arsenal when defending clients against Assault cases --- The Self-Defense defense. All too often they forget that their are these affirmative defenses which can greatly increase the burden of proof imposed upon the government and their case.


The laws of the State of Minnesota provide, generally that you can use physical force upon another person in order to defend yourself or another from the use or imminent use of unlawful physical force by another. 

What this often means is - that you don't have to wait until you are hit by another before you protect yourself. If someone is in your face and about to hit you, you can push them away or hit them. Granted, it is always best to start with the least aggressive use of force first and see if that works. (Know this, you can almost never use deadly force as Self- Defense against another unless lesser force doesn't make sense and you or another are in imminent danger of being killed or seriously injured.)

Where My Experience Comes In

As a former prosecutor, I've seen Self-Defense used as a defense and I frequently see Self Defense - successfully in cases where my clients are charged with Assault.  As your attorney, I put forth this defense to protect you at trial, and make a case that the use or threat of use of force upon the "victim" was reasonable and excusable under the law. 

It is critical that my clients not give statements to police about the case, or the police will ask questions which defeat the expected use of this defense. Police are not looking to help the accused defend themselves and will only try to get evidence to help the DA win the case at trial.

If you have been contacted by police regarding an Assault charge - be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and the Rolloff Law Office today at 303-731-0719.  Together, we can protect your future.

Public Defender or a Private Attorney (Explained)

Don't get me wrong, public defenders play one of the most important roles in the the criminal justice system.  As a prosecutor, I worked with a number of public defenders who'd I put in the same league as the best (and most expensive) private Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorneys - and they often do their work with little to no budget. Time and time gain, I observed these public servants provide, to individuals who just cannot afford to hire a representative, the essential safety net that's guaranteed in the constitution.  However, as the illustration above points out there are common issues - like a lack of oversight, absence of specialized legal training, high turnover, and excessive case loads - that plague the public defender offices all over the country. This article points out some of the larger problems facing individuals in the State of Minnesota.

You will have almost no chance of winning your case if you choose the wrong attorney.

Understanding the current state of most people's pocketbooks, many individuals find themselves eligible for the services of a public defender.  These state-paid attorneys, sometimes called “public pretenders” can be unfairly branded as not-so-great lawyers. In reality, many of them provide outstanding services to the accused. But, consider some of the limitations listed-above when weighing whether or not you should hire private counsel - especially when you consider your future.  .

Time. Public defenders have increasing case loads, now more than ever. Due to the economy, defendants are turning to public service attorneys over private attorneys because they cannot afford the fees. As a result, public defenders get stuck with too many cases to handle, driving down the quality of their representation. Often a public defender will not even look at your case until you meet him for the 1st time right before court. The attorney may not want to fully explore your defenses or may simply convince you that the first offer is a “great deal” so he or she can tackle the dozens of other cases after yours.

Choice. You do not get to choose who your public defender is. A large part of hiring private counsel is the ability to screen for an attorney who makes you feel comfortable. Being charged with a criminal offense is never a pleasant experience. As such, you need an attorney who will put you at ease and make you feel comfortable in making the decisions affecting your future.

No Implied Consent Representation. If you are charged with Drunk Driving, a public defender cannot represent your implied consent challenge (also referred to as the “civil” side or the “license” portion of a DWI case). The only way to recover your suspended license is to hire a private attorney.

What's the Alternative?

I understand that anyone accused of a crime wants a skilled attorney to handle their case.  My client's (who've previously been appointed a public defender) tell me that they had no choice but go with that option first because they thought that my fees were simply too high.

Believe it or not, when you view these fees in the context of an "investment" in your future- understanding that you only get one chance to fight this thing that could impact you everyday for the rest of your life - I think you'll see that The Rolloff Law Office's reputation for providing exceptional legal defense at competitive rates is correct.  Plus, I also offer flexible payment plans to my valued clients.

Call me today to speak to an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney directly at (612) 234-1165.  I have the time listen to what you want to happen with your case - and I'll work doggedly to make that a reality.

Minnesota Expungements (Explained)

Minnesota law does allow for certain criminal records to be sealed. The process for doing that is called Expungement. When a record is sealed - it does not show up in a criminal records search performed at the courthouse.

What's a Criminal Record?

In Minnesota a criminal record is essentially all of the files and records (of any crime) that the state has filed against you. Each jurisdiction - be it a city, a county, a law enforcement agency, a prosecutor's office and/or a courthouse keeps its copy of said records. Additionally, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension also has its own cache of criminal convictions. 

Who Can Access Criminal Records?

Generally speaking, the information from your criminal record is public information - meaning that anyone can have access to it, including potential employers. As such, any person can search the district court criminal records at any county courthouse. Another place that the public, including employers, can access criminal records is at the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension - where law enforcement agencies throughout the state have reported to them information that then becomes part of a statewide computerized record of criminal cases.

What Kinds of Criminal Records Can Be Expunged?

Some offenses, such as murder, certain sex offenses and Drunk Driving convictions cannot be expunged. However, most other offenses may be - if you or your experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney can convince the judge that the benefits of an Expungement to you outweigh the disadvantages to the public.

What Happens With Offenses That Did Not Lead To Convictions?

Granted, the most difficult types of records to Expunge are convictions; however, the task is not impossible.  That being said, even if a charge is dismissed and/or an offender has been found "not guilty," he still may have have a criminal record. That being said, these can often be the easiest types of records to Expunge. In addition, offenses to which someone a guilty plea and then successfully completed a diversion program -one's chances at Expungement are more likely.

If I File an Expungement - Will I Automatically Prevail?

As with anything in the law, an Expungement is never guaranteed. First, you need to properly file the paperwork, serving it upon all of the relevant parties, and then you have to argue convincingly to a judge how his granting you this remedy is of such a benefit to you that it outweighs the disadvantage to the public from not being able to have access to your record.  I often will argue that Expungement is proper because someone has either: (a.) been denied work, housing, or a professional license because of his/her record; (b.) that sealing the criminal record will not negatively impact public safety; and/or (iii.) that the individual has rehabilitated him/herself.

If Expungment is Granted - What Happens Next?

Generally speaking, the court has a limited amount of time to grant your request. If the judge does do this, your record will be sealed the public. If the Expunged crime was the only crime on your record, you will not have anything that the public can see. The one limitation is that, as the law stands today, the court can only seal those records under its immediate control; therefore, other records, such as those held by another agency may not be so guarded.

What Should You Do?

For a long time now, Minnesota law has recognized that people who have made a few, isolated mistakes or those who have been mistakenly arrested should have the opportunity to clean their records. If you feel as though what you've read here applies to you, contact an experienced Minnesota Expungement Attorney to discuss your questions and concerns and to get the ball rolling working to ensure that your past doesn't continue to hinder your future.

Will That Ticket Effect My Insurance Rates?

If you just got pulled over and were issued a ticket - after wondering "why me?" - your thoughts probably turned to the question of whether that citation will impact your insurance rates - right? The simple, short answer is YES.  But, as a Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney - I never accept simple answers.

Believe it or not, your driving record is almost as important as your credit report when it comes to saving money on car insurance. More often than not, when it comes time to renew your policy, your insurance provider (whether it's the one with the gecko, that aggressive/progressive woman Flo, that silly duck or whoever) will request a copy of your driving record to see if you have incurred any new moving violations. If you have - they're more apt to see you as a higher risk and in turn will probably adjust your rates accordingly.

More that Just a Fine

Everyone who has been issued a ticket understands that it is going to cost you something. However, if you believe that one citation will cost you just the fine, think again. Also, if you get more than one ticket - over a rather short period of time - that accumulation of infractions could cost you not only a lot of money but you could also lose your driver's license.  

What are the Costs?

Before you decide to put the pedal to the medal, you should first consider the total cost of getting caught for Speeding. In addition to the fines and assorted court costs and fees you'll be assessed, you may lose your insurance company's "good driver" discount and in-turn see your insurance rates go up - for several years. Or, even worse, your insurance provider may see fit to drop you all together - if you continue to pick up tickets.  In addition, getting a number of tickets, in a short period of time, could result in the government suspending your driver's license.

What Should You Do?

Some serious traffic violations are considered criminal charges in the State of Minnesota. Therefore, the best thing you can do if you get a  ticket for a violation like Extreme Speed, Reckless Driving, Careless Driving or Drunk Driving/DWI is to seek out an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney to evaluate the situation, explain your legal rights and to represent you in court.

An attorney may be able to help you get the ticket dropped or have your fine or other penalties reduced. He may also be able to help you to keep your driving record clean and your insurance rates low.  A lawyer could also assist you in keeping your driver's license and/or (in the worse case scenario) get your driving privileges back.

If you have been charged with Speeding, Careless or Reckless Driving or DWI - contact The Rolloff Law Office for a free evaluation of your case. The effort you put forth today could save you from a greater degree of misery in the future. 

Got Your DWI Yet?

Believe it or nor not, one in seven Minnesota drivers as a DWI on his or her driving record. According to the Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety, in 2009 (the year for which they have the most complete statistics) 32,756 motorists were arrested for Drunk Driving while driving on the highways and byway through out the state.. Do the math... that means that on any given day - 90 Minnesota drivers are cited for Driving Drunk.  Of those individuals, 41%  of them already have at least on "prior" Drunk Driving conviction on their record. 

To many, these numbers point to only one conclusion - that we, as a society, have a problem.  As such, the call has gone out to: (a.) the police to beef-up their DWI enforcement efforts; (b.) the legislature to increase the penalties associated with a Drunk Driving conviction; and, (c.) the citizenry - to call out other drivers and report them to the government.  

With these sorts of efforts and tactics in place - if you choose to drive drunk - it’s probably only a matter of time before your are caught. If you, or someone you love has been arrested for DWI, you need to have an experienced Minnesota DWI Attorney on your side. Not only can he serve as a big relief in a situation where it seems like no one is on your side, he can also fight for you, your rights, your wallet and your future. 

Make the next, right move - contact an attorney and take advantage of their free consultation offer to discuss the details of your case. Before you make a decision that will most assuredly impact your future - and that of your loved ones - learn about the options available to you.

DWI - Field Sobriety Tests - Don't do 'em

Field Sobriety Tests are commonly used by the police to ascertain whether a driver is "under the influence." However, to most experience Minnesota DWI Attorneys these controversial "tests" are fertile ground for debate in court - regarding what they don't demonstrate about an individuals level of intoxication.

As is common - when asked to do something by the police - most of us comply.  Maybe it's because we were asked nicely, or maybe it's because we don't want to be confrontational or appear to have something to hide. Irrespective of one's motivations, in more cases than not - based on the hundreds of DWI police reports I've read through - we're not doing anyone (but the cops) a favor if we submit to these roadside calisthenics.

As you will see in upcoming posts, one's chances of "passing" these tests (even when a driver is not over the legal limit) is often low - considering the conditions under which they're often administered. Plus, if you have been drinking - and the officer has already noted the odor of alcohol coming from you - it's just common sense that he or she is going to note any missteps during your taking of these tests as additional signs of intoxication, no? Remember, his subjective opinion is what will go into the police report - and that carries considerable weight when it comes to charging and prosecuting someone for Drunk Driving.

In the State of Minnesota, the option to take these tests is up to the driver. My advice, to anyone requested to perform them, is - as Nancy Reagan was fond of intoning - Just Say No! As with any criminal case, the burden is on the government to prove you're guilty. Knowing that, why would anyone want to give them additional fuel for their fire? Also, believe it or not - you cannot prove your innocent. If you submit to these tests, more likely than not, the officer is going to pay more attention to the problems with your performance than the perfection of it - and (either he or the prosecutor) is going to slant those missteps in such a way as to bolster their case against you.

Most likely if your reading this, the question as to whether you want to - walk the line, or stand on one leg has already been put to you and you've agreed. If that's the case, there are ways to work with that; however, for those of you a tad more fortunate, I hope you never find yourself in such a position, but if you do --- Just say no.

Remember, for questions like this, an experienced Minnesota DWI Attorney is always just a phone call away; use him or her to learn your rights and to minimize the evidence the government collects from you.

A Foolproof Way to Beat a DWI?

Driving while under the influence of alcohol is, by any reasonable person's account, dangerous. If you are under the influence and you choose to drive - you are at greater risk of being in an accident, being injured, and/or dying.  And, not only are you risking your own life and limbs - but your also endangering everyone else on the road with you.  

That being said, did you know that - that every single injury or death related to drunk driving is preventable.  Here is the one foolproof way to prevent drinking and driving.

Take the "D" out of DWI.

How do you do that? Here are some options.

1. Assign a designated driver. Have someone in your party who agrees not to drink be the only one who holds on to the keys and the only one who drives.
2. Take a cab. Trust me the cost of almost any cab ride - save for one that takes you from New York to California (and maybe even then) is going to cost less than a DWI arrest, in the long run.
3. Walk home.
4. Contract with a Designated Driver Service.  Not only do you get home safe - but if you've driven to the bar - your vehicle will too.
5. Get a room. As with the suggestion in #2 - the cost of spending a night in a hotel will be small - when compared to what you'll end up spending to defend a DWI and/or pay the fines, fees and increased car insurance if your ever convicted of Drunk Driving.

The DWI legal process can be a very daunting one. All too often, the people I talk to assume that just because they were pulled over by the police and charged with a DWI - that a conviction is all but guaranteed. This is far from the truth.

The first, best step you can take to ensure that you have a fighting chance to preserve your rights, understand your options - and even beat the charge - is to speak to an experienced Minnesota DWI Defense Attorney.