Mandatory Minimum DWI Sentences in Minnesota

For anyone facing a first, second, or third degree DWI, a mandatory minimum sentence is supposed to be required by law. This sentence ranges from 30 days to a year of incarceration, depending on how many previous offenses the individual has committed. A high mandatory minimum sentence can be a huge motivation for individuals accused of DWI to avoid conviction – there’s little chance that a judge will grant leniency when they must impose a certain sentence.

A mandatory minimum sentence exists for all repeat DWI offenders in Minnesota. Luckily, the judge does have some discretion when handing down mandatory minimum sentences because he or she can choose to replace some of the jail or workhouse time with either intensive probation, community service, or in-home detention, depending on the case. Regardless, you can expect that the prosecutor will want you to spend some time in jail if you are convicted of a repeat DWI offense.