What Factors Lead To Harsher DUI/DWI Penalties?

In Minnesota, the penalties associated with driving while impaired (DWI) increase significantly for repeat offenders and in cases involving other aggravating factors. If you have been charged with DWI, it is important to have an experienced lawyer protect your rights.

Aggravating Factors for Minnesota DWI

The following are aggravating factors that will result in increased penalties for DWI offenses:

• A prior DWI conviction or alcohol-related license revocation that has occurred within the 10 years preceding the current offense
• A blood alcohol content of 0.16 or higher
• When a child under the age of 16 is in the vehicle at the time of the offense and the child is more than three years younger than the offender

These aggravating factors can make drunk driving charges more serious and expose individuals to harsher penalties upon conviction. Any aggravating factor alone, or in combination with other aggravating factors, will result in more serious charges. For example, being arrested for your fourth DWI in a 10-year period will result in a felony DWI/DUI.

The Penalties for Aggravated DUI/DWI In Minnesota

These aggravating factors can result in increased penalties, such as increased and minimum jail sentences, increased fines, and substantially longer periods of license suspension or cancelation.

The act of driving with a suspended license, while not an aggravating factor, can also result in increased penalties or additional legal complications. I have the experience in resolving all alcohol-related offenses, and I strive to limit the exposure my clients have to the associated penalties.

Contact a Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Today

Considering that there are so many issues to process as you prepare your defense for your aggravated DWI/DUI case, you should have a Shakopee DUI attorney who will protect your rights through every step of the process. I will give you an honest and straightforward assessment of your situation, and will and guide you through each and every part of the process. Contact me by phone at 952-641-7485 or through my website to arrange an initial consultation.