Is a DUI a criminal or civil charge?

In Minnesota, a DUI (driving under the influence) is generally a criminal charge. This means that if you are convicted of a DUI, you will have a criminal record. A DUI charge carries stiff penalties, including fines, possible jail time, and a driver’s license suspension. In addition to the criminal charge, there are also civil charges associated with a DUI. A civil charge is when the state or another party attempts to recover damages from you. These damages might include the costs of any accident or property damage you caused. The state can also seek to recover any medical costs that resulted from the DUI incident. Most DUI cases will involve both criminal and civil charges. The criminal charges must be adjudicated in court before the civil charges can begin. Even if you are found not guilty in the criminal case, you may still be liable for civil damages if the court finds that you were negligent or reckless in the incident. Overall, a DUI in Minnesota is generally a criminal charge, with potential civil charges depending on the outcome of the case. It is important to understand the implications of a DUI charge and contact a qualified lawyer to defend yourself and protect your rights.

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