Fourth Degree DWI is a misdemeanor and common first-time offense in Minnesota. Fourth Degree DWI defense lawyer Christopher Keyser routinely handles misdemeanor DWI charges throughout Minnesota resulting in dismissed or reduced charges. Misdemeanor DWI defense attorney Chistopher Keyser was named a Super Lawyer Rising Star and a Top 100 Trial Lawyer. Read his client testimonials and reviews as well as his recent case victories.
Contact us at (612) 338-5007 for a free Fourth Degree DWI case evaluation.
Penalties
The most common outcome for a Fourth Degree DWI charge is a stayed or suspended sentence (meaning no jail time), probation for 2 years, completion of a chemical dependency evaluation (sometimes called a Rule 25 or alcohol assessment), attendance at a Mother’s Against Drunk Driving (MADD) Victim Impact Panel, and a monetary fine.
A fourth degree DWI charge usually comes with a separate license revocation of 90 days if the driver’s blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) tests between 0.08 and 0.15. A driver’s license may be revoked for 1 year if the driver’s BAC tests above 0.16. A driver’s prior record of DWI convictions or alcohol-related license revocations may increase these penalties.
Minnesota has no mandatory minimum sentencing requirements for a fourth degree misdemeanor DWI charge. While a typical outcome results in no jail time served, every case is different. The maximum penalty for a fourth degree DWI is 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000.00 fine, however it is rare for a person to receive a maximum sentence.
Legal Challenges
There are several strategies a Minneapolis DWI lawyer can use to fight fourth degree DWI charges. Fourth degree DWI lawyers will analyze the initial interaction between a driver and the police, in particular the reasons for stopping the driver’s vehicle.
Other aspects considered for fourth degree misdemeanor DWI challenges include the manner and method of the chemical testing, the reliability of the testing, and the observations of the police officer during any roadside interaction with the driver as well as during investigation at the police station. It is uncommon for a fourth degree DWI lawyer to find zero legal challenges in a case.
The police reports, witness statements, police officer dashboard video camera evidence, and testing reports are all scrutinized for accuracy, flaws, and inconsistencies to build a strong defense for every fourth degree DWI charge.
Contact Minneapolis Fourth Degree DWI Lawyer
A fourth degree misdemeanor DWI charge can be stressful, especially for someone with no criminal record. If you face fourth degree DWI charges, you have options. To speak with Minneapolis fourth degree DWI defense lawyer Christopher Keyser, call our office at 612-338-5007. We will provide a free case evaluation and discuss defense options for overcoming your fourth degree DWI charges.