Facing 4th Degree Misdemeanor DWI Charges in St. Paul?
By Sullivan Rice
Minnesota is known for its tough stance on DWIs, with law enforcement dedicating substantial resources to catching and convicting impaired drivers. If you’re facing 4th degree DWI charges, it’s crucial to have an experienced DWI attorney by your side.
What Constitutes a DWI in Minnesota?
In Minnesota, a DWI occurs when you drive, operate, or are in physical control of a motor vehicle while:
- Under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance.
- With a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or more within two hours of driving.
- With any amount of a Schedule I or Schedule II controlled substance in your body.
- Operating a commercial vehicle with a BAC of 0.04 or more within two hours of driving.
- Refuse to submit to a chemical test (blood, breath, or urine) as required by Minnesota’s implied consent laws. It is a crime to refuse a urine or blood test if the officer has obtained a search warrant.
Possible 4th Degree Misdemeanor DWI Charges:
- Driving under the influence of alcohol.
- Driving with a BAC over 0.08.
Potential Penalties for 4th Degree Misdemeanor DWI:
- Up to 90 days in jail.
- Fines up to $1,000.
- Court surcharges.
- Chemical dependency evaluation and treatment.
- Attendance at a MADD Victim Impact Panel.
- Supervised probation.
Additional Consequences:
- License reinstatement fees.
- Car towing and storage fees.
- Increased insurance costs.
- Potential job loss.
Range of DWI Charges in Minnesota:
- 4th Degree Misdemeanor DWI
- 3rd Degree Gross Misdemeanor DWI
- 2nd Degree Gross Misdemeanor DWI
- 1st Degree Felony DWI
Given the complex legal and factual elements of a DWI charge, it’s essential to consult with a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist. Whether this is your first DWI or you have prior offenses, Jack Rice Defense is here to help. As a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist, Jack can guide you through your case and help you get your life back on track.
