Edina Criminal Lawyer

Facing criminal charges can be extremely stressful. You may be facing jail time, high fines, and loss of constitutional rights, including voting rights, the right to own firearms, and more. Criminal charges may even result in the loss of employment and the ability to get employment in the future. Fortunately, you have a constitutional right to representation if you are facing criminal charges.

A dedicated Edina criminal lawyer could help relieve some of the stress and help you fight the charges. Having an experienced attorney with a deep understanding of Minnesota’s laws on your side can significantly help you understand the charges against you and help your chances of a positive outcome.

Common Charges Under State Law

There are many broad categories of criminal offenses in Minnesota and many specific offenses that may apply to a particular case. Chapter 609 of Minnesota’s Criminal Code sets forth much of the state’s criminal law. With the assistance of a qualified attorney, a defendant can seek to protect their rights and fight their case.

Common charges a person can face include, but are not limited to:

• Gun crimes
• Theft crimes and robbery
• Sex crimes
• Probation violations
• Driving under the influence (DUI)
• Kidnapping
• Traffic violations
• Assault
• Murder or manslaughter

When it comes to serious charges like these, having a lawyer that is well-versed in criminal defense can make all the difference.

The Difference between Felony and Misdemeanor Offenses

Depending on the circumstances and the facts of the case, felony and misdemeanor offenses can both have serious ramifications. A misdemeanor is considered a lesser offense, and can carry less serious penalties than felonies. Despite being less serious than a felony, a misdemeanor may still leave a stain on a person’s criminal record. Having a proper criminal defense could help to potentially lessen charges or even lead to acquittal.

Felonies are serious offenses that can result in years of imprisonment. They can also result in substantial fines and the loss of the constitutional right to own a weapon, vote, and serve on a jury. Many felonies may disqualify a defendant from certain types of employment and make it difficult to find employment in general. Representation by a qualified defense attorney is a must in a felony case.

Expungement or Sealing of Criminal Records

After a conviction has occurred, in certain situations it is possible for an individual to have their criminal record sealed or expunged. When a record is sealed, no one can view the contents of one’s criminal record without a court order. Expungement, however, allows for a person to have their criminal record removed from public access completely. Sealing or expunging can greatly assist a defendant who meets the requirements to move past their past conviction and may have a substantial effect on a person’s ability to find employment.

Possible Defenses in a Criminal Case

Every criminal case is unique. Due to the intricate nature of criminal cases, having a customized defense created by a skilled lawyer is integral to protecting an individual’s rights. Some common defenses utilized in criminal cases include:

• Presenting reasonable doubt to a jury
• Filing a suppression motion
• Challenging witnesses on cross-examination
• Demonstrate mistaken identity
• Present an alibi
• Utilize an affirmative defense such as self-defense

These potential defenses, and many others, exist to help protect the rights of a criminal defendant. It is best to consult with an Edina criminal lawyer to discuss the case and any mitigating factors.

How an Edina Criminal Attorney Could Help

Every criminal charge, no matter how serious, deserves the careful attention of a skilled criminal defense attorney. A proper defense may reduce the charges against you, or even result in an acquittal of the charges.

A dedicated Edina criminal lawyer can help to protect your rights and fight for you. Contact us today to see what our experienced attorneys can do for you.