When arrested for a DWI in another state, it’s tempting to ignore the problem once you get back to Minnesota. But legal issues in another state aren’t that easy to ignore. In fact, thanks to something called the Interstate Driver License Compact, they will almost certainly come back to haunt you in Minnesota.
Drafted in the 1960s, the Interstate Driver License Compact (IDLC) is an agreement to share information about traffic violations between states. This includes everything from speeding tickets to DWIs. Today there are 44 states participating in the agreement, including Minnesota. That means if you get pulled over or arrested in one state, your home state of Minnesota is going to know about it.
When Will Minnesota Find Out About a DWI Arrest?
After your initial arrest, the police will likely suspend your driving privileges in the arresting state. At that point, you will have the option to post bail and get out of jail. Some states allow you to enter a plea at this point. In most cases, the court will issue a date for your court appearance. You must show up to these court dates (and preferably with a DWI lawyer). If you fail to attend court hearings on your case, expect a permanently suspended license and a warrant for your arrest. You could face additional charges, too. The arresting state will then inform Minnesota state police of the charges against you. Rarely, a state drops the charges before your court appearance. In these cases, it’s unlikely it will get reported to Minnesota authorities.
What Will Minnesota Do About a DWI In Another State?
Essentially, Minnesota will treat your DWI in another state as if it happened here. Minnesota state police will learn about your charges fairly quickly thanks to the national database. They will then begin the paperwork to fine you and suspend your license. That means not only are your driving privileges suspended in the state arresting state, but here in Minnesota as well. You will also likely face fines in the arresting state as well as your home state of Minnesota. That can make an out-of-state DUI even more expensive.
Keep in mind that your driving record, including any DWI charges, goes into a national database. All states check this database before issuing a license. So no matter what state you go to get a driver’s license, they will just this national registry and see that you have a DUI on your record. This can make getting a new driver’s license very difficult no matter where you got the DWI. A DWI in another state will also count towards your total DWI convictions. Second-time convictions carry much higher fines and jail time. If arrested for a fourth DWI in a 10-year period, it’s a felony charge in Minnesota. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety cautions that a felony DWI can result in up to 7 years in prison and a $14,000 fine.
Do I Have to Travel Back to the Other State for Court Appearances?
Not only is a DWI in another state going to be expensive, but it’s also going to take up a lot of your time. That’s because it is absolutely in your best interest to appear at all court dates regarding your case.
If you don’t, the state where you got the DWI may issue a warrant for your arrest. You will need to travel back to the state to enter a plea. Some states allow you to enter a plea when you bail out of jail, but that might not always be the case. Pay close attention to your paperwork and keep track of when and where you need to show up. If you aren’t clear, at the very least contact the court where you need to appear. It’s best to work with a lawyer to ensure you are meeting the deadlines and expectations of the court. Otherwise, it can be difficult (if not impossible) to fight the charges against you.
Should I Hire a DWI Lawyer to Help With My Out-of-State Charges?
It’s in your best interest to hire a lawyer to help you fight the DWI charges. The other state is hoping that you’ll pay the fines to put the matter behind you as quickly as possible. But a DWI or DUI conviction can have a long-lasting effect on your life. It’s not something you should rush through as fast as you can. It can limit where you live, what you do for work, and your freedom to travel.
A DWI in another state can be even more expensive and time-consuming. You’ll be facing more fines to reinstate your license and could be facing more suspension time than you would be if the conviction happened in Minnesota. Hiring an experienced DWI lawyer to help you navigate the system in another state has many benefits:
- They can help limit the number of times you need to return to the state. This can help you save both time and money, avoiding costly return trips to the state when you need to appear in court.
- They can help reduce any fines or penalties you are facing. An experienced DWI lawyer understands how to build the best case for your defense. This can help you avoid the maximum penalties or avoid the charges altogether.
- They can advise you on the quickest way to get your driving privileges reinstated. Your license is likely suspended in both states. A lawyer can help you determine the best way to get your license back so you can get back on the road.
Are You Facing Out-of-State DWI Charges?
DWI charges are stressful. Charges in another state are even worse. You’ll be dealing with a system you don’t know. It’s essential that you hire an attorney who can help you achieve the best possible outcome for your case. If you are facing DWI charges in Minnesota, contact Devore Criminal Defense for a free consultation on your case. We can help you determine the best next steps to take to achieve the best outcome.
Posted 20th August 2019 by DeVore Criminal Defense