Carver County & Minnesota DWI / DUI Defense Attorney
Charged with DWI or DUI in Minnesota? Get experienced, focused defense before you make any decisions.
Trusted DWI / DUI Attorney Serving Carver County and All of Minnesota
When you are accused of impaired driving, the stakes are high: your license, your job, your finances, and your record are all on the line. At Davis Defense, we focus on criminal law and have extensive experience with DWI and DUI cases. From first-time offenses to complex felony-level charges, Andrew Davis provides experienced, hands-on representation listening to your story, explaining the law in plain language, and developing a strategy around your goals.
Serving Carver, Ramsey, Hennepin, and Every Minnesota County
Our office is based in Carver County, but we represent clients across Minnesota, including Ramsey County, Hennepin County, and surrounding areas. Each county has its own procedures and personalities in the courthouse. Andrew’s experience in courts across the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota allows him to tailor your defense strategy to the local rules, prosecutors, and judges you’ll be dealing with.
What’s on the Line in a Minnesota DWI Case
A DWI is more than just a traffic ticket. Depending on your record and the facts of the case, a conviction can result in:
- Suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, including a CDL
- Jail or prison time, especially for repeat or felony-level offenses
- Significant fines and surcharges
- Vehicle forfeiture in certain cases
- Ignition interlock requirements at your expense
- Long probation terms with strict conditions
- Increased insurance premiums and long-term financial impact
- A permanent criminal record that can affect jobs, housing, and education
Alcohol, Drugs, and Minnesota DWI Law
Minnesota’s DWI laws apply to more than just alcohol. You can be charged with DWI if drugs illegal substances, prescription medications, or a combination of substances impact your ability to drive safely. Unlike alcohol, which is often measured with a roadside breath test, drug-related DWI cases rely heavily on blood or urine testing and the officer’s observations. These tests must be properly administered, stored, and documented. Andrew carefully reviews the circumstances of your stop, the officer’s training, and the handling of any chemical tests to identify weaknesses in the state’s case.
Felony vs. Misdemeanor DWI in Minnesota
Not all DWI charges are the same. Many first-time DWIs are misdemeanors, but the consequences quickly escalate with prior offenses, high test results, or aggravating factors such as a child in the vehicle. Multiple DWIs within a ten-year period, or a prior felony DWI, can lead to felony-level charges with the possibility of years in prison, large fines, and loss of firearm rights. If your case involves injury, criminal vehicular operation or homicide charges may also be filed. Early, skilled representation is critical when the stakes are this high.
How Andrew Handles Your DWI Case
You don’t have to guess what comes next. Here’s how the process typically works and how Andrew stays with you at each step:
- Free Initial Consultation – Andrew listens to your side, explains the charges, and identifies immediate deadlines, including license issues.
- Reviewing the Evidence – We obtain police reports, videos, and test results, and we go through them with you so you understand the strengths and weaknesses of the case.
- Challenging the Stop and Tests – We examine whether the officer had a lawful reason to stop you, whether field sobriety tests were properly conducted, and whether breath, blood, or urine tests were reliable and admissible.
- Strategy: Negotiation or Trial – Depending on the evidence, your goals, and your record, we decide whether to pursue dismissal, reduced charges, or prepare for trial.
- Resolving the Case – We work toward the best possible outcome, whether that is minimized penalties, treatment-focused options, or a not-guilty verdict.
Assault
Drug Crimes
DWI / DUI
Expungement
Implied Consent / Test Refusal
Probation Violation
Sex Offenses
Theft Crimes
Interference With a 911 Call
Traffic Offenses
Criminal Vehicular Homicide
Criminal Vehicular Operation
Gun Rights & Firearm Restoration
DANCO & OFP Violations
Domestic Assault
White Collar Crimes
Federal Crimes
Juvenile Crimes
Minnesota DWI / DUI FAQ
Will I go to jail if I am charged with DWI in Minnesota?
Not necessarily. Many people spend a night in jail after arrest, but that may be the only time behind bars depending on the facts of the case, your prior record, and how the case is handled. Some cases resolve with probation, treatment, or reduced charges instead of lengthy jail time. An experienced DWI defense lawyer can help you understand realistic outcomes for your situation.
What should I do if I am pulled over for suspected DWI in Carver County, MN?
Remain calm, be polite, and provide your license, registration, and insurance. Do not argue with the officer or volunteer extra information. Avoid admitting guilt or guessing your alcohol level. Once you are safe to do so, contact a DWI attorney immediately to get advice tailored to your situation especially before deciding whether to take or refuse any tests.
If I blew .08 or higher, should I just plead guilty?
No. A test result at or above .08 does not automatically mean you will be convicted. The traffic stop, field sobriety tests, testing equipment, and procedures all matter. There may be legal defenses, issues with the test, or opportunities to reduce the charges or penalties. Always talk to a DWI defense lawyer before pleading guilty.
What is Minnesota’s implied consent law?
Under implied consent, anyone who drives in Minnesota is considered to have agreed to chemical testing if lawfully arrested for DWI. Refusing a breath, blood, or urine test can lead to additional penalties, including longer license revocation and separate criminal charges. Because the decision to test or refuse has serious consequences, it’s critical to understand your rights as early as possible.
Do you handle DWI cases involving drugs or prescription medications?
Yes. You can be charged with DWI if illegal drugs, prescription medications, or even some over-the-counter substances affect your ability to drive safely. Drug-related DWIs rely on blood or urine testing and officer observations, which can be challenged. Andrew defends cases involving both alcohol and drugs.