Minnesota DWI Sentencing

Three Strikes Rules and DWI

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In Minnesota, we do not have a three strikes law in the traditional sense of the phrase, “Three strikes and you’re out” (meaning prison time). However, in Minnesota the State enhances each subsequent DWI, so repeat offenses result in more severe consequences. For example, a third offense within a 10-year period brings with it a mandatory 90-day sentence in jail, with 30-days having to be served in an actual secure facility. For a third offense, the driver’s license consequences are also greater, which include a license cancellation of three years or more.

Further, in Minnesota a fourth offense within a 10-year period results in a felony charge with the possibility of a prison sentence. Any DWI charged after being convicted of a felony DWI or criminal vehicular operation/homicide, will be charged at the felony level regardless of the time that has passed since the last offense. In other words, once you have a felony-level conviction for DWI or CVO/CVH, all subsequent alcohol-related driving offenses will be charged as a felony.

With any DWI offense, be it your first or repeat offense, it is important to hire an experienced attorney that knows the laws in Minnesota. Our DWI attorneys are available now to speak with you about your case.

If you find yourself facing a first, second , third or fourth DWI/OWI charge or are charged with driving after suspension, revocation, or cancellation please call our attorneys at 612-334-3342.

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