A fourth offense DWI in Minnesota within a ten year period is a felony charge. This is much more serious than any prior DWI convictions, which are all misdemeanors or gross misdemeanors. Receiving a DWI charge for the fourth time can be frustrating and concerning, especially if the circumstances of your arrest are questionable. Individuals with past DWIs may be targeted even when the facts don’t support a traffic stop or arrest.
At Sieben Edmunds Miller, we treat each DWI case differently based on the individual’s previous convictions and the story behind their arrest. We know that people are often charged with a DWI based on imprecise field sobriety tests, faulty breathalyzer readings, and biased police findings. Our goal is to hear the details of your case and create a defense that takes every component into account.
Minnesota Fourth Offense DWI Laws
The laws pertaining to a fourth DWI are straightforward: if you have had three prior DWIs within a ten year period, you will be charged with a felony DWI. You can be charged with a DWI in Minnesota if you are driving, operating, or in physical control of any motor vehicle anywhere in the state while:
- under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or an intoxicating substance;
- having an alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or more;
- having any amount of a schedule I or II controlled substance (other than marijuana) in the body;
- if the vehicle is a commercial motor vehicle, having a BAC of .04 or more at the time or within two hours of doing so; or
- if you refuse testing.
Remember that prosecutors have to prove at least one of these points to secure a conviction. If the details of your arrest are up for debate, speak to a criminal defense lawyer about how to fight back against the prosecutor’s allegations.
Fourth Offense DWI Penalties in Minnesota
The different levels of Minnesota DWI charges come with different penalties if you are convicted. Minnesota’s impaired driving penalties are serious, especially for a fourth offense felony DWI. In addition to issues like license revocation, plate impoundment, vehicle forfeiture, chemical dependency treatment, and probation, you face up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $14,000. Clearly this charge must be taken very seriously.
DWI Attorneys in Minnesota
Looking for a criminal defense attorney to help you defend against your fourth DWI charge? You’re making the right choice – working with a lawyer is the only way to handle such a serious charge. Sieben Edmunds Miller is a Minnesota law firm dedicated to representing criminal defense clients throughout Minnesota and Wisconsin. Our lawyers are experienced, compassionate, and unshakeable. We will help you find the best possible defense for your case. Whether you would like to plead guilty, negotiate a plea deal, or have your charges dropped, we’ll explore the best path to get you there. Contact our team to learn how we can help!
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