Saint Cloud DUI Defense Lawyers
Last updated on September 11, 2024
We Will Guide You Through A Difficult Time In Your Life.
If you or your loved one is pulled over for drunk driving in Central Minnesota, the best advice is to talk to a DUI defense lawyer as soon as possible. Do not make any statements to the police!
Do not hesitate before calling PCG Law, in Saint Cloud at 320-200-9805. We can begin building your defense immediately. We will start by scrutinizing all aspects of your case, including the validity of the traffic stop, whether the evidence was illegally obtained, whether the evidence is reliable, and whether you have viable defenses and mitigating factors that could be used to reduce the possible penalties.
Even A First Offense Has Serious Consequences
A drunk driving charge is often based on an error in judgment, but it can have a lasting impact on your life. Even a first offense can have very serious legal and nonlegal consequences, which is why it is important to at least talk to an attorney.
Legal penalties include:
- Heavy fines
- Probation
- Community service
- Ignition interlock, mandatory in some drunk driving cases
- Automatic license suspension in every drunk driving case
- Automatic license suspension for refusal to submit to a breath test
- Seizure of a vehicle
- Electronic monitoring
- Ongoing drug and alcohol testing
- Jail time, mandatory under certain circumstances
The legal penalties alone can quickly complicate your life. There are a number of nonlegal consequences that can have a serious impact as well. Listed below are only a few common examples.
- Increased car insurance rates or dropped coverage
- Higher health or life insurance premiums
- Impact on current employment or future job opportunities
- Hinder ability to obtain financial aid for education
DWI FAQ
What is “Vanessa’s Law”?
The legislature passed Vanessa’s law to “recommend” specific punishments for offenders less than 18 years old who are involved in a crash-related moving violation or an alcohol/controlled substance-related violation. One of the specific punishments recommended is the suspension of the juvenile offender’s driver’s license until he/she reaches the age of 18.
Can I be arrested for DUI/DWI if my BAC is less than .08?
The answer is “yes.” Alcohol affects each individual differently. While your BAC may be lower than the legal limit, your ability to safely operate a vehicle may still be impaired.
What is the legal BAC limit in the state of Minnesota?
For an adult – if they have a BAC of .08 or more – they can be arrested for DUI/DWI. You don’t have to consume a number of drinks to exceed the legal limit. There are many factors that contribute to your BAC and the effects alcohol has on your ability to pay attention, react, maintain coordination, and make sound judgments.
Should I take a blood, breath, or urine test if I have been arrested for a DUI/DWI offense?
The answer is almost always “yes.” Failure to provide a blood, breath, or urine test if you have been arrested for a DUI/DWI offense is a crime in the State of Minnesota. You can be charged with a gross misdemeanor for refusing to test. A conviction for refusal to test may result in a revocation of your driver’s license for a year.
How do I get my MN driver’s license reinstated?
Once your license has been suspended or revoked, the State of Minnesota has the right not to reinstate your license. Generally, though, you may have your license reinstated or obtain a limited license so you can get to and from work by completing the following steps with the Department of Public Safety: (1) Complete the application for a new driver’s license, (2) complete a written test, and (3) pay the reinstatement fee.
The written test covers information in Chapters 7 and 8 of the Minnesota Driver’s Manual.
Call Us For Honest Advice About Your Case
If you have been stopped for drunk driving, contact our experienced legal team at 320-200-9805 or send us an email. In your initial consultation, you will sit down with an experienced attorney who will provide straightforward advice about your legal options.