DWI Defense Attorney in Woodbury MN | Difference Between DUI and DWI

The difference between a DUI and DWI is fairly simple. DWI stands for Driving While Intoxicated, while DUI stands for Driving Under Influence. Both are represented by DWI in Minnesota, but in some states, they have different meanings and penalties. This article explains the difference between a DUI and a DWI. DWI Defense Attorney in Woodbury MN

DUI and DWI

DWI and DUI are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. DWI stands for Driving While Intoxicated, which can range from a misdemeanor or felony offense in Minnesota. A DUI charge is often considered the more serious charge of Driving Under the Influence.

You should know that a DWI is both a criminal and civil offense. A person who commits driving under influence of alcohol/drugs or with a blood alcohol concentration above 0.08% could be charged with driving while intoxicated (DWI). The penalties vary from fines and jail time to suspension of driver’s license and community service work.

Blood Alcohol Content

In many states, one of the biggest differences between these two charges is the blood alcohol content (BAC) at which they become applicable.

In Minnesota and several other states, for example, a person who has a BAC of 0.08 or higher will be charged with DWI if it’s their first offense. The same level of intoxication would result in a DUI charge in other states.

In terms of penalties and consequences, though there are some similarities between DWI and DUI cases (like fines, community service hours, or license suspension), there are also some distinctions that can make one offense worse than another, depending on your circumstance.

Know Your State’s Laws

You should know your state’s laws regarding DUIs or DWIs. If you are arrested for a DWI, you should consult with an attorney who has experience in handling these types of cases and can help you understand what might happen next. In some states, a DUI is often referred to as “driving under the influence” (DUI). In other states, however, this is not the case. There may be different terminology for such an offense in your area. It is also important to note that some states have significantly higher penalties than others for driving under the influence. If you are charged with DUI or DWI, you must have an experienced DWI lawyer on hand who knows how these cases work in your state and can give them proper attention from start to finish.

DWI Consequences in Minnesota

Both DUI and DWI are serious charges in Minnesota. Both can have serious consequences, often resulting in high fines and possible jail time, and can impact your future. It is important to know how your state defines these charges, so you can make sure that you are legally representing yourself when it comes time to defend yourself against either charge.

There are different levels of DWI offenses depending on the blood alcohol content (BAC), the presence or absence of aggravating factors, and the number of prior DWI convictions. The severity of a DWI charge ranges from misdemeanor (least serious) to felony (most serious). You will see your charge listed on a complaint or a citation. A 4th Degree DWI is defined as an offense with a BAC between .08% and .099%. A 3rd Degree DWI is defined as an offense with a BAC between .10% and .159%. A 2nd Degree DWI is defined as an offense with a BAC between .16% and .199%. And a 1st Degree DWI is defined as an offense with a BAC over .20%. The type of DWI charge and the severity of the charge depends on the facts of the case and a person’s previous DWI record.

Yet, even the least serious DWI charge can have serious consequences. The 4th degree of DWI may lead to up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. A conviction for any DWI charge stays on your criminal history indefinitely, so it’s crucial to take action now.