What Happens When You Get a DWI in Minneapolis?
Getting arrested for a DWI in Minneapolis can be a life-changing event, leaving you with serious legal, financial, and personal consequences. If you are facing this charge, you may be wondering: What happens when you get a DWI in Minneapolis?
When you get a DWI in Minneapolis, you face immediate legal penalties, including possible jail time, fines, and driver’s license suspension. The severity of the consequences depends on factors like your blood alcohol concentration (BAC), prior offenses, and any aggravating circumstances.
With decades of experience handling DWI cases in Minnesota, I have helped countless clients fight charges, reduce penalties, and protect their future. This article outlines what to expect after a DWI arrest in Minneapolis, including penalties, license revocation, legal defenses, and how a skilled attorney can help.
What Are the Immediate Consequences of a DWI Arrest in Minneapolis?
A DWI arrest in Minneapolis triggers immediate legal and administrative actions. Even before a conviction, drivers may face:
- Arrest and booking – You will be taken into custody and processed at a local police station.
- Vehicle impoundment – In some cases, your vehicle may be towed and held until released.
- License revocation – A DWI arrest often results in immediate license suspension under Minnesota’s implied consent law.
- Mandatory chemical testing – Refusing a breath, blood, or urine test can lead to additional charges and harsher penalties.
- Pretrial release conditions – Depending on your record and the severity of the offense, you may need to post bail or comply with other restrictions before trial.
What Are the Penalties for a DWI in Minneapolis?
The penalties for a DWI in Minneapolis depend on the severity of the charge, prior convictions, and aggravating factors.
Minnesota DWI Penalties by Offense Level
| Offense Level | Jail Time | Fines | License Suspension |
|---|---|---|---|
| First DWI (BAC under 0.16) | Up to 90 days | Up to $1,000 | 90 days |
| First DWI (BAC 0.16 or higher) | Up to 1 year | Up to $3,000 | 1 year |
| Second DWI (Within 10 Years) | Up to 1 year | Up to $3,000 | 2 years |
| Third DWI (Gross Misdemeanor) | Up to 1 year | Up to $3,000 | 3 years |
| Felony DWI (Fourth Offense or More) | Up to 7 years | Up to $14,000 | 4+ years |
How Does a DWI Affect Your Driver’s License in Minneapolis?
Minnesota law allows for immediate license suspension following a DWI arrest. The length of the suspension depends on the BAC level and prior offenses.
- First DWI (BAC under 0.16) – 90-day revocation
- First DWI (BAC 0.16 or higher) – 1-year revocation
- Second DWI – 2-year revocation
- Third DWI – 3-year revocation
- Felony DWI (Fourth Offense or More) – 4+ years revocation
Drivers may be eligible for a limited license or ignition interlock program to regain driving privileges.
What Happens If You Refuse a Breath or Blood Test in Minneapolis?
Minnesota has an implied consent law, meaning that drivers must submit to a breath, blood, or urine test if suspected of DWI. Refusing the test results in additional penalties, including:
- Automatic one-year license revocation, even for a first offense
- Harsher criminal penalties, including increased fines and jail time
- Potential felony charges for multiple prior offenses
Refusing a test does not guarantee a case dismissal—it often makes the case more difficult to defend in court.
How Can You Fight a DWI Charge in Minneapolis?
A DWI charge does not automatically mean a conviction. Common defenses include:
- Illegal traffic stop – If police lacked reasonable suspicion to stop you, the case may be dismissed.
- Faulty breathalyzer test – Improper calibration or medical conditions can cause inaccurate BAC readings.
- Lack of probable cause for arrest – Officers must have clear evidence of impairment beyond just the smell of alcohol.
- Rising BAC defense – Alcohol absorption takes time, meaning your BAC could have been under the limit while driving but over the limit at testing.
A DWI attorney can challenge evidence, negotiate reduced penalties, and fight for a case dismissal.
How Much Does a DWI Cost in Minneapolis?
A DWI in Minneapolis can be financially devastating. The total cost often includes:
- Fines – Ranging from $1,000 to $14,000 depending on the offense
- Court fees – Additional costs for legal processing
- Bail costs – If required for release before trial
- Increased insurance premiums – DWI convictions can double or triple insurance rates
- Ignition interlock device fees – Required for certain offenses
- Alcohol education or treatment programs – Mandatory in some cases
The total financial impact can exceed $10,000 for a first-time DWI, making legal representation critical for minimizing costs.
What Should You Do After a DWI Arrest in Minneapolis?
If you have been arrested for DWI in Minneapolis, taking immediate action is essential to protecting your rights.
- Do not admit guilt or make self-incriminating statements.
- Contact a DWI attorney immediately to discuss defense strategies.
- Request a hearing to challenge your license suspension.
- Document the details of your arrest, including officer statements and any roadside tests.
An experienced DWI defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors, challenge faulty evidence, and fight for reduced penalties or case dismissal.
Get a Strong DWI Defense With Gerald Miller, P.A.
A DWI conviction in Minneapolis can affect your freedom, finances, and future, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Gerald Miller, P.A., we have successfully defended thousands of clients against DWI charges in Minnesota.
If you have been arrested for DWI in Minneapolis, call 612-341-9080 or visit geraldmillerlawyer.com to schedule a free consultation today.
Further Reading:
- How To Get a DWI Dismissed in Minnesota in 2025
- Can a DWI Conviction Be Expunged in Minnesota?
- DWI Defense Based on Challenging Breath Test
- What Are the Different Levels of DWI in Minnesota?
References:
- Minnesota Office of Traffic Safety – DWI Laws
- Minnesota Judicial Branch – DWI Penalties
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – Impaired Driving
- Minnesota Department of Public Safety – License Reinstatement
