What Happens When You Get a DWI in Edina?
Unsure of what happens when you are convicted of driving while impaired (DWI) in Edina? The consequences of your conviction could last a lifetime. Jail time and fines are a possibility, but you could also face other consequences you were not expecting.
The good news is that a DWI arrest will not always result in a conviction. With a strong defense strategy and the right legal team, you could beat the charges against you and avoid any penalties that come with a conviction. The attorneys at Gerald Miller have a successful track record of fighting DWI cases in Edina. Let us put our experience to work for you. Call right away to learn more.
You Are Booked Into Jail For DWI in Edina
The first thing that will happen to you following an arrest for DWI in Edina is that you will be booked into jail. The arresting officer will take your fingerprints and determine if you have any active warrants. Typically, you will also be requested to perform a breathalyzer test to measure your blood alcohol concentration (BAC). Your BAC reading could ultimately impact the charges you face.
How long you stay in jail will depend on the circumstances. If you were arrested for misdemeanor DWI, you are likely to be released on your own recognizance the following day. If you are facing felony charges, you can expect to arrange for a cash bail before your release.
You Face The Potential For Incarceration
For most people, the top concern following a DWI arrest is the potential for incarceration. While an DWI case could lead to jail time, some charges are more likely than others to result in time behind bars.
Under state law, the amount of time you could spend in jail will depend on the presence of aggravating factors. These factors include things like prior criminal DWI convictions. Other things like the presence of child passengers could also increase the maximum penalties in your case. First-time offenders do not often face additional jail time, but multiple prior convictions could lead to weeks, months, or even years behind bars.
You Risk Substantial Fines
There is also a financial impact that can come with a DWI conviction. You could face fines whether you are a first-time offender or have a long history of DWI convictions. While misdemeanor DWI cases usually top out at $1,000 in fines, you could face up to $14,000 for a felony conviction. There are also other expenses like court costs to be aware of.
You Could Deal With Collateral Consequences
There is also the possibility that could face collateral consequences for your DWI conviction. A collateral consequence is anything that occurs as a result of a DWI conviction that does not stem directly from the criminal statute. The most common example includes the suspension of your driving privileges. If you have been convicted of DWI, you could also have your vehicle seized by the government or your license place confiscated.
If you are guilty of a felony, you could face the loss of numerous important rights. Some examples include the loss of your right to vote or to own a firearm. A conviction could also impact your ability to find housing or employment in the future.
You Might Be Responsible for Restitution
One of the aspects of a DWI conviction that is not often talked about is restitution. Restitution is not always required in DWI cases. Instead, it is primarily an issue when a DWI arrest results in an accident that caused property damage or bodily injury.
Restitution is a court order that you compensate a person for the damage you caused during your DWI. There are some similarities between restitution and a personal injury lawsuit in that you could be financially liable for the damage you cause.
An Attorney Could Help You Avoid These Consequences During A DWI in Edina
If you are facing charges of DWI in Edina, the consequences of a conviction are never certain. Our firm could help you develop a strong defense strategy that gives you the best opportunity to fight back. If you are ready to discuss your defense options, contact the attorneys of Gerald Miller as soon as possible to schedule your free consultation.
