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The Lawnmower and the DWI

It’s always good to remember that “motor vehicle” is defined very broadly for purposes of the DWI/DUI laws. Here is an example of a guy that thought it would be a good idea to make a beer run on his lawnmower. I suppose he thought better of it after his encounter with...

DWI Life Sentence

DWI Life Sentence

With good legal representation, your first DWI usually can get you a $300 fine and some probation and classes. A second offense might yield a 30 day sentence. More priors, high alcohol readings, and test refusals can make the consequences much worse. In Minnesota,...

Brooks Decision Announced

The Minnesota Supreme Court released its decision in State v. Brooks today at 10:00 a.m. We’re reading and absorbing the decision as I write, but at first blush it appears that the Court has upheld all consensual alcohol testing in DWI cases. Check out the decision...

Enhanced DWI Charging

Most first time DWI offenses in Minnesota are misdemeanors. The crime is called Fourth Degree DWI. The maximum penalty for a misdemeanor Fourth Degree DWI is 90 days in local jail and a $1,000 fine, just like all misdemeanors. However, many DWI crimes are charged out...

DWI Vehicle Forfeitures

Today let's talk about motor vehicle forfeitures in DWI cases. Minnesota statutes allow the government to forfeit, or take title to, your vehicle if you commit particular types of DWI offenses. Minnesota Statutes Chapter 169A.63 sets out the types of offenses that...

Power of The Prosecutor

Power of The Prosecutor

The death of Internet activist Aaron Swartz has lead to a public discussion of the power prosecutors have over defendants.  Swartz, famous for his role developing Reddit,a social news and entertainment website,  recently  died as a result of an apparent suicide....

Minnesota DWI Record Holder

Most people enjoy being record holders, but this record is not one to brag about. Danny Bettcher holds the record for the most DWI’s in Minnesota; 27. A little over one month after Bettcher had been released from prison, he went to a bar and drank. Both conditions...

Do I have to tell my work of my arrest?

After the initial shock of an arrest wears off, many questions begin running through your head. One question you might have is, “Do I have to tell my work about my arrest?” Generally the answer is no. However, if you have signed an employment contract with your work,...

Lindsay Lohan Arrested, Again!

Lindsay Lohan Arrested, Again!

After a night out on the town, Lindsay Lohan is once again in trouble with the law. Early this morning in New York City, Ms. Lohan was arrested on third degree assault charges after allegedly hitting a woman in a nightclub. The alleged victim did not appear to have...

Under 21 Drinking and Driving Laws

DUI’s are never a good thing but can be even worse for those under the age of 21. If you are under the age of 21 and are caught driving after drinking, you could be charged with two different types of offenses. If you are .07 or less, you most likely will be charged...

Drug Kingpin from St. Paul Sentenced

Drug Kingpin from St. Paul Sentenced

Drug charges can have severe consequences. One case that's been in the news recently is the case of Jesus Mendoza, a drug kingpin from St. Paul, MN. According to a recent Star Tribune article, Mendoza pled guilty last summer to trafficking in numerous pounds of...

Drinking, Golfing and the Legal Consequences

After a cold, snowy, and long winter, the weather is finally improving which, for many Minnesotans, means it’s time to dust off their golf clubs and hit the course.  Many Minnesotans take the 4+ hours they spend on the golf course as an opportunity to enjoy some...

What is Drug Court?

What is Drug Court?

Drug Court is a special court designed to rehabilitate certain felony offenders through long-term comprehensive supervision, drug testing, treatment services and immediate sanctions and incentives.  Drug courts promote recovery through a coordinated response to...

Can I go to Canada with a DWI Conviction?

For years this question has been one of interest for those who have been charged, convicted, or accused of DWI or DUI.  Fishing and hunting trips to Canada with family and friends is a favorite past-time of many Minnesotans and until recently, if you had a DWI...