Minneapolis DWI Lawyer | Ramsay Law Firm, PLLC

Yes, Minnesota allows vehicle forfeiture in certain DWI cases, and the seizure process happens outside the traditional courtroom system without an initial hearing. But a seizure is not the same as a permanent loss. We routinely challenge DWI forfeitures on procedural, constitutional, and evidentiary grounds, and we’ve reunited many clients with their vehicles. Acting quickly is essential; waiting too long can result in permanent forfeiture regardless of how your underlying DWI case is resolved. We also work to ensure the State covers any storage fees that accumulate during the dispute.

In many cases, yes. For recent convictions, we can file for post conviction review or an appeal with the Minnesota Court of Appeals, where our firm has built a strong reputation. For older convictions, recent changes to Minnesota’s expungement law have created new opportunities to seal DWI records from public view. While expungement is never guaranteed, it’s achievable with a compelling reason, evidence of rehabilitation, and a relatively clean subsequent record. We’ll provide an honest evaluation of your case’s merits and develop a tailored strategy, whether that means an appeal, post-conviction relief, or expungement.

Minnesota recognizes four degrees of DWI, ranging from fourth-degree (a misdemeanor) to first-degree (a felony). The degree of your charge depends on several factors, including your blood alcohol concentration, the number of prior DWI offenses on your record, and whether any aggravating circumstances were present, such as a child in the vehicle, a BAC of 0.16 or higher, or refusal to submit to testing. Even a “lesser” misdemeanor DWI carries serious consequences, including potential jail time, fines, license revocation, and a permanent criminal record. We’ll evaluate the specifics of your case during a free consultation and explain exactly what you’re facing.

Ramsay Law Firm is home to Minnesota’s only ABA Board Certified DUI/DWI Defense Specialist, a distinction that reflects the highest level of recognized expertise in this area of law. While many firms treat DWI cases as routine, we’ve built our entire practice around DWI defense. With over 30 years of focused experience, our attorneys have argued cases at every level, from local Minneapolis courtrooms to the United States Supreme Court. We also incorporate forensic science into our defense strategies, allowing us to challenge breath, blood, and urine test results in ways general practitioners often cannot.

A DWI arrest triggers an automatic license revocation process that begins before your court date, which is why time is critical. However, you have a limited window to challenge the State’s action and potentially keep the revocation off your driving record. We act immediately to notify the State of our intent to challenge the revocation and explore short-term solutions such as limited licenses or participation in the ignition interlock program, so you can keep driving while your case is pending. In some cases we may be able to get your license fully reinstated while we litigate your case. Our long-term goal is full license restoration with no record of the incident.