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What Minnesota’s Not a Drop Law Could Mean for Your Case

Minnesota’s “Not a Drop Law” makes driving under the influence of illegal substances a crime for all drivers under the age of 21.

Underage Drunk Drivers Face Serious Penalties

Minnesota has strict policies and harsh penalties for underage drunk drivers. The state’s “Not a Drop Law” or “Zero Tolerance Law” makes it illegal for all drivers under the age of 21 to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of substances. Under these laws, there is mandatory violation enforcement regardless of the driver’s level of impairment or extenuating circumstances.

States with zero-tolerance policies are allowed to impose penalties on all DWI infractions and violations without subjective judgment that considers the actions or behaviors of the driver. An underage driver with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) higher than zero can face the same penalties as an adult driver with a BAC of .08 or higher. Without proper defense by a DWI attorney, underage drivers convicted of DWI face steep penalties and possible jail sentences.

Under Minnesota’s Underage Drinking Law, drunk drivers under the age of 21 face additional DWI penalties. The Underage Drinking Law prohibits the following actions:

  • Consumption of alcohol without parental permission or supervision
  • Possession of alcohol with intention of consumption
  • Purchasing or attempting to purchase alcohol
  • Entering a liquor store with the intent to purchase alcohol
  • Entering a bar or nightclub with intent to purchase alcohol
  • Lying or misrepresentation of legal age to purchase alcohol

When teenage drunk drivers aged 16 and 17 violate DWI laws, they fall under the jurisdiction of Minnesota’s adult courts, not juvenile courts. If convicted of drunk driving, they are subject to the full range of adult DWI penalties. In addition, a DWI conviction will result in the loss of the minor’s driver’s license, and he or she will not be permitted to reapply for a license until 18 years of age. Minnesota’s Not a Drop Law prevents flexibility for juvenile DWI offenders who must be tried in adult courts.

Legal defense by a Minneapolis DWI attorney is important for any underage driver arrested for DWI. A charge and conviction can result in steep monetary fines, probation or jail time, confiscation of a vehicle, termination of car insurance, mandatory alcohol education classes, and community service requirements. Since a DWI conviction remains on record, it can impact future employment, housing, credit, and lifestyle for an underage driver.

Max Keller image
Attorney Max Keller
Max Keller

Max Keller has won countless jury trial cases involving misdemeanors and felonies, sex crimes, and DWI’s. He is a member of the Minnesota Society for Criminal Justice, which only allows the top 50 criminal defense attorneys in the state as members. Max is a frequent speaker at CLE’s and is often asked for advice by other defense attorneys across Minnesota.

Years of Experience: Approx. 20 years
Minnesota Registration Status: Active
Bar & Court Admissions: State of Minnesota Minnesota State Court Minnesota Federal Court 8th Circuit Federal Court of Appeals State of Maryland

What to Do If You Have Been Charged with a Criminal Offense

DWI driving while intoxicated printed on a paper clipped on a board with open fountain pen on a wooden table. DWI While Riding a Scooter

What Happens If You Get a DWI While Riding a Scooter or E-Bike in Minneapolis?

Minnesota DWI laws apply to all types of motorized vehicles using the road. So, you may get arrested and charged with DWI while riding a scooter or E-bike if your blood alcohol concentration is 0.08 or more. The penalties for a DWI conviction may range from driver license suspension or revocation and fines to imprisonment. A conviction may also result in collateral consequences, including job loss and higher auto insurance premiums. A DWI lawyer can minimize the legal consequences or avoid them altogether. So, be sure to retain a lawyer immediately after you get arrested or charged for riding a scooter or e-bike while impaired.
Top view police officer examining criminal record at desk. criminal record impact new charges

Can a Criminal Record Impact New Charges in Minnesota?

People with prior convictions and facing new charges may wonder, “Can a criminal record impact new charges in Minnesota?” Having a criminal record can influence how the prosecution and court will handle your current charges. The court may deny your bail request or impose strict conditions. It may also impose harsh penalties. The prosecution, on the other hand, may be reluctant to give you a favorable plea deal if you have a prior conviction for a similar or related offense.