Category: Felonies

Differences between Misdemeanor and Felony Drunk Driving Charges

Each year, nearly 28,000 people are arrested for DWI, according to Minnesota Department of Public Safety, and one in seven Minnesota drivers has a DWI on his or her record. Unfortunately, some drivers who are charged with a DWI consider the charge to be a traffic offense and fail to take the charges seriously. In fact, there is much confusion about the nature of a DWI charge and the potential impact of a DWI conviction.

What a Drunk Driving Conviction Could Cost You

Charges of drunk driving are nothing to take lightly. In fact, a drunk driving conviction could cost you dearly for years to come – not just in terms of its financial impact, but its impact on your reputation, livelihood, and freedom.

While men still dominate, the number of females charged with DUI is increasing

In 2011, a Minnesota woman rushed to her vehicle to escape her drunk and abusive husband. According to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, she said that she felt she had no other choice than to flee. After driving less than a mile, she was arrested on charges of driving under the influence with a blood alcohol content of 0.16, which is twice the legal limit.

Will Minnesota Supreme Court accept free speech argument in assisting suicide case?

The First Amendment gives people living in Minnesota the right of free speech but does not clarify what this right entails. It simply states “Congress shall make no law…abridging the freedom of speech” and this broad statement has been the subject of many court cases over the years, including one recently heard by the Minnesota Supreme Court.

Minnesota lawmakers change civil forfeiture law

Forfeiture has long been a tool law enforcement use when battling issues such as drug crimes and driving while intoxicated. An individual found guilty of dealing drugs, for example, may lose his or her home. Civil forfeiture, however, is based on the idea that the property itself committed a crime, not the owner.

Minnesota Police Continue Crackdown on Drunk Driving

With the unofficial start of summer underway, Minnesota state police are sure to be out in full force to crackdown on drunk driving. In fact, the police crackdown on drunk driving in Minnesota was ramped up just a few weeks ago with Minnesota’s fishing opener earlier this month.

What Is a Warrant and When Is It Needed?

A warrant is a legal document that gives the police the authority to make an arrest or search a premises. There are two common types of warrants: arrest warrants and search warrants.

U.S. Supreme Court: Warrant needed for blood test in DWI cases

In the recent case, Missouri v. McNeely, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that police officers must obtain a warrant before subjecting a suspected drunk driver to a blood test. Justice Clarence Thomas was the only justice to oppose the decision, making the final vote eight to one.

Does Minnesota Have a Stand Your Ground Law?

It is important you understand the answer to the question, “Does Minnesota have a stand your ground law?” is no. Instead, the state has a duty to retreat law that requires you to make reasonable attempts to escape before using force to defend yourself.

What to Do If You Are Arrested in Minnesota

Knowing what to do if you are arrested in Minnesota can mean the difference between freedom and serious legal consequences. The first and most crucial thing to do during and after the arrest is to remain calm and cooperative. The next thing to do is to request a lawyer and invoke your right to remain silent, especially if the arresting officers start interrogating you about the alleged crime. You should familiarize yourself with bail and release conditions, be present during court hearings, and follow your lawyer’s instructions.