The criminal and administrative sanctions that go along with a DWI conviction in Minnesota make hiring an attorney as soon as possible a better choice than trying to save money by defending yourself in court. Whether you had a drink before you drove your car or not, the state must prove you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. A Minneapolis DWI Attorney can defend your rights throughout the process.
For a DWI arrest to be valid, the officer must have probable cause to pull over the vehicle. A lawyer can review the arrest report and may question the officer’s motives for stopping your vehicle. Dashboard cameras, private surveillance videos and witness testimony may provide evidence disputing the officer’s reasoning for pulling you over. If your lawyer is able to prove the officer didn’t have probable cause, the evidence obtained from the scene, including your blood alcohol test results may not be admissible in court.
If you enter a plea of not guilty and your case goes to trial, the police officer who arrested you will have to testify about what they observed and why they believed you were under the influence of alcohol. Friends, coworkers or other patrons of the establishment you were in preceding your arrest may be able to testify on your behalf if they witnessed the events differently than the officer. Unless you were involved in an accident, the state’s case depends on the observations of the officer. If your lawyer is successful is discrediting the officer’s opinions, you may be acquitted.
Your lawyer may choose one of several defense strategies to help you avoid penalties such as fines, imprisonment and driver’s license suspension. Contact Us right away if you have been accused of DWI so an attorney can start working on your case.