Frequently Asked Questions in Minnesota DWI/DUI/Impaired & Drunk Driving Cases

You should contact your Interlock Provider immediately. Depending on your circumstances, the Ignition Interlock program could require that you start your vehicle a certain amount of time each month. Failure to do so could result in a program violation that would add time to your interlock requirement. Documenting mechanical issues via a written submission to your service provider, as well as prompt attempts to fix the issue will go a long way if you ever have to appeal the Commissioner of Public Safety’s decision to add time to your program. If action is taken and you wish to appeal you should contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to assist in the legal process.

No, there are not DWI checkpoints in Minnesota or Wisconsin. A DWI checkpoint is a predetermined location where police set up an operation to stop vehicles (either at random or in specific intervals) and check drivers for signs of impairment without any other reason to stop the vehicle. While the United States Supreme Court decided in 1990 that DWI checkpoints are constitutional, both Minnesota and Wisconsin supreme courts have determined DWI checkpoints violate drivers’ constitutional rights, particularly the Fourth Amendment, which protects people from unreasonable searches and seizures.

However, a police officer may initiate a traffic stop for hundreds of other reasons. If you find yourself charged with DWI following a traffic stop, a knowledgeable and experienced criminal defense attorney can help you navigate the process and advocate for you in court.