What Information Should Your Attorney Need if You are Charged with a DWI in Minnesota?
When facing a DWI (Driving While Impaired) charge in Minnesota, it's imperative to gather all relevant information to present a strong defense case. Adequate preparation and transparency with your attorney can significantly affect the outcome of your case. As you prepare for your initial consultation with Jack Rice Defense, here’s an outline of the crucial information your defense attorney will need to navigate your DWI charges effectively.
“DWIs are difficult for multiple reasons including the short term question of how you continue living your life and getting from place to place.”
Personal and Incident-Specific Information
Full legal name, date of birth, and contact information.
Driver's license number and state of issuance.
Employment status and any potential employment repercussions due to the DWI DUI charges attorney.
Details about the date, time, location, and circumstances of the arrest.
Any statements made to the police or the arresting officer.
Results of any field sobriety tests, breath tests, blood tests, or urine tests administered, including test numbers if available.
Documentation and Evidence
Copies of any citations, charging documents, or notices received.
Police reports and DWI testing documentation.
Any photographic or video evidence from the scene or police body/dash cams.
Receipts or bank statements that can establish a timeline (e.g., bar or restaurant receipts) if relevant..
A list of personal items seized by police.
Criminal History
Full disclosure of any past criminal or traffic records, especially previous DWI/DUI offenses.
Information on current probation, parole, or pending cases that might impact the DWI case.
Existing protection or restraining orders that might be related to the DWI incident.
Witness Information
Names and contact details of any potential witnesses, including passengers or bystanders.
Witness statements, if any were collected at the time of the incident.
Medical Information
Current prescription medications or medical conditions that could affect field sobriety test performance or chemical test results.
Medical or dental treatment records indicating procedures on the day of or shortly before the arrest that could impact breathalyzer results.
Substance Use History
History of alcohol or substance use and any treatment or counseling undertakings.
Relevant information pertaining to the day of the arrest, including the quantity and timeline of alcohol or substance consumption.
Driving and Vehicle Information
Vehicle information and registration details of the automobile involved in the incident.
Details about the condition of the vehicle and whether it could have affected the incident or the arrest.
Any modifications to the vehicle that may be relevant (e.g., faulty breathalyzer interlock devices).
Personal Circumstances
Any personal circumstances that could be relevant to your case, including family, financial, or occupational considerations.
Concerns about license suspension and its impact on your ability to work or fulfill other obligations.
Goals for the Case
Your understanding of the charges and consequences of a DWI in Minnesota.
What you hope to achieve (e.g., dismissal, reduced charges, alternative sentencing).
Any questions you have about the legal process, potential defenses, or the long-term implications of the charge.
“Remember the DWIs are enhanceable. The more you get, they worse they get, especially with mandatory minimum sentencing.”
Remember, the more information you provide to your DWI defense attorney, the better equipped they will be to defend you. Be honest, as attorney-client privilege protects the confidentiality of the information you share with your lawyer. By providing comprehensive details, Jack Rice Defense can develop a tailored defensive strategy to challenge the DWI charges effectively.
A DWI charge can carry significant legal consequences, but with prompt and thorough preparation, you can take critical steps toward protecting your rights and pursuing a favorable outcome. If you’re facing a DWI in Minnesota, reach out to Jack Rice Defense for experienced legal support focused on achieving the best possible resolution for your case. Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation or call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339. When your life is on the line, make sure Jack Rice Defense is in your corner.
Jack is a nationally recognized and award-winning criminal defense lawyer, awarded Among the Best Criminal Defense Lawyer of 2024, Minnesota Super Lawyer for 2023, Among the Best Lawyers of 2022, winner of the Minnesota Attorney of the Year Award for 2021, and founder of Jack Rice Defense. He was awarded the Professional Excellence Award from the MSBA for 2020 and is an MSBA Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist. He is also a former Prosecutor and a former U.S. Central Intelligence Agency Officer. This St. Paul Criminal Defense Lawyer has decades of experience successfully representing thousands of clients facing everything from Sex Crimes, Child Pornography, Domestic Assault to DWI to Murder to other serious criminal charges.