Minneapolis attorneys who know vehicle forfeiture law

As part of Minnesota's effort to send a message about zero tolerance for drunk driving, the state has increased penalties and stepped up enforcement. You may be aware of some penalties, such as significant jail time, large fines and license revocation. But many motorists do not know they could lose their vehicle to the government - permanently - because of repeated or egregious DWIs.

If motor vehicle forfeiture is one of the penalties that you face for a DWI, you need a lawyer to protect your rights immediately. Vehicle forfeiture proceedings move very quickly, and so must you. Jeffrey B. Ring & Associates has earned a reputation among clients, colleagues and the judiciary for getting results in DUI forfeiture cases in Minneapolis and throughout the state. We have nearly four decades of experience providing effective representation in cases just like yours.

Understanding vehicle seizures

Forfeiture of property is a civil penalty, and it is nothing new. Different types of forfeiture laws have been enacted all over the United States in the past two decades. They involve forfeiture of all types of property, from vehicles to real estate. In Minnesota, the vehicle forfeiture penalty for alcohol-related crimes is considered among the harshest in the country.

Minnesota law permits a law enforcement officer to take your vehicle at the time you are arrested for drunk driving, if:

  • Certain prior offenses have occurred.
  • Your blood-alcohol content is .16 or greater, or a child in the car.
  • Or, you refuse testing and you have a qualified prior offense within the past ten years
  • You have a no-use restriction on your license already.
  • You were driving while your license was canceled for prior DWIs or prior revocations.

After your vehicle has been seized, the officer then serves a notice stating that authorities intend to seek forfeiture of the vehicle.

How we can help

If you have been served with an intent to forfeit your vehicle, you need to speak to a DWI lawyer right away to find out what your rights are and how you can prevent your vehicle from being taken from you. Our attorneys will stand by your side through the entire process. We explain every detail so you know what to expect.

You have the right to what is called judicial determination, which means you have to file a challenge to the forfeiture within 60 days from the date the intent to forfeit was served. If you fail to present a challenge, then, in the eyes of the court, you have waived your right to judicial determination. We take care of filing this challenge on your behalf.

Our attorneys can also assist you with bail bond arrangements after your arrest and with any probation violation that comes out of your case.

Minneapolis forfeiture defense attorney

You certainly cannot afford to lose your vehicle. Let our attorneys help you keep it. Contact Jeffrey B. Ring & Associates for real help in retaining your car following a DUI arrest. Forfeiting your vehicle is expensive. It costs nothing to talk to our lawyers.