Minneapolis DWI Defense

Aggressive Defense Against Drunk Driving Charges in Minnesota

A traffic stop can quickly turn into a serious criminal matter when officers suspect you of driving while impaired. The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) has identified certain driving behaviors that law enforcement commonly associates with drunk driving, including:

• Swerving or weaving

• Turning too wide or abruptly

• Straddling the center line

• Nearly hitting another vehicle or object

• Driving without headlights at night

• Responding slowly to traffic signals

• Following too closely

• Stopping in traffic without reason

• Driving into oncoming traffic

• Rapid acceleration and deceleration

• Appearing visibly intoxicated

If you’ve been stopped and charged with DWI, it’s critical to speak to an experienced Minneapolis DWI Lawyer immediately. Barry Hogen has over 34 years of experience defending drivers across Minnesota against DWI charges and related offenses.

Understanding Your Rights During a Traffic Stop

If you are stopped by police, you are not required to answer every question they ask. Anything you say can be used against you in court. Politely exercising your right to remain silent and requesting to speak with your attorney can help protect your case.

Officers will look for signs such as:

• Slurred or stuttered speech

• The smell of alcohol

• Flushed face

• Swaying or leaning for balance

• Disheveled clothing

If they suspect impairment, they may order you out of your vehicle for field sobriety tests or a preliminary breath test. These tests are not infallible and can be challenged in court.

Building a Strong DWI Defense

Barry carefully examines every aspect of your arrest to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case. Common defense strategies include:

• Challenging the legality of the traffic stop

• Disputing field sobriety test results

• Questioning the accuracy of breath, blood, or urine tests

• Highlighting inconsistencies in officer reports or testimony

These challenges can lead to reduced charges, case dismissals, or acquittals.

Why Early Legal Help Matters

DWI charges can result in:

• Jail time

• Heavy fines

• Loss of driving privileges

• Increased insurance premiums

• Permanent criminal record

Acting quickly allows your lawyer to begin investigating, preserving evidence, and negotiating with prosecutors before your case progresses too far.

Protect Your Future After a DWI Arrest

A DWI charge does not have to define your future. With an experienced defense attorney, you can fight the charges and work toward the best possible outcome.

📞 Call (612) 338-5545 or contact us for a free, confidential consultation.