Minneapolis Whiskey Plates Lawyer

Fighting Plate Impoundment Orders After a DWI Arrest

In Minnesota, certain DWI arrests can lead to plate impoundment, requiring you to surrender your license plates and replace them with special “whiskey plates.” These plates, which have easily identifiable numbering, can create embarrassment, inconvenience, and added scrutiny from law enforcement.

If you’ve been ordered to turn in your plates, an experienced Minneapolis Whiskey Plates Lawyer can help you fight both the underlying DWI charges and the plate impoundment itself. Barry Hogen has over 34 years of criminal defense experience and has successfully challenged impoundment orders for Minnesota drivers.

When Plate Impoundment Can Happen

In Minnesota, plate impoundment may be ordered when:

• You are convicted of two or more DWIs within 10 years

• You have two or more license revocations in 10 years related to alcohol offenses

• Your BAC is .16 or higher at the time of arrest

• You are operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license

When plate impoundment is ordered, the arresting officer acts on behalf of the Commissioner of Public Safety to seize your plates. You will typically receive:

• A 7-day temporary permit if you own the vehicle

• A 45-day permit if you are driving a vehicle you do not own

If you own multiple vehicles, the impoundment applies to all of them, even if they are driven by other family members.

What Are “Whiskey Plates”?

After plate impoundment, you may apply for special registration plates — often called “whiskey plates” — which have a distinct series of numbers and letters. While law enforcement can identify these plates, they are not legally allowed to stop you solely for having them.

Challenging a Plate Impoundment

You have the right to request a judicial review of your plate impoundment order, but you must act within 30 days. Missing this deadline means losing your chance to contest the action.

Barry Hogen can:

• File your request for judicial review

• Investigate whether the impoundment was lawfully ordered

• Present evidence and legal arguments in court to challenge the order

• Work toward reinstating your regular plates and driving privileges

Why Legal Help Matters

The plate impoundment process is tied closely to your DWI case, and fighting both together can improve your chances of success. Barry knows how to identify procedural errors, challenge the validity of the stop and arrest, and negotiate for reduced penalties.

Get Help Fighting Plate Impoundment Today

Whiskey plates and plate impoundment can disrupt your life and affect your family’s ability to drive. You don’t have to accept the penalty without a fight.

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