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Conspiracy is a criminal offense that might be charged as its own crime or in addition to other charges. The potential consequences of a conspiracy conviction can be severe, especially when you are also facing additional charges.
If you are facing charges of conspiracy, reach out to a knowledgeable defense attorney right away. An Edina conspiracy lawyer understands how to present a strong defense and could help you build a case to seek favorable results.
Unlike most other criminal charges, the crime does not have to be carried out in order for a defendant to be found guilty of conspiracy. Minnesota Statutes § 609.175 lays out the elements required for someone to be found guilty of conspiracy. Under state law, there must be proof of an agreement between two or more individuals to engage in a criminal act at some point in the future. Additionally, one of the individuals must act in furtherance of the conspiracy.
The prosecution must prove that an individual violated all elements of the state’s conspiracy statute in order for the defendant to be found guilty. A skilled Edina attorney could help establish that the criteria for conspiracy were not met.
A conspiracy conviction can carry severe penalties depending on the circumstances of the offense. For instance, the type of underlying offense significantly affects the type and amount of penalties a convicted individual might receive. If the conspiring individuals agreed to commit a misdemeanor offense, they might face up to 90 days in jail and a $300 fine. Conversely, if the agreement was related to first-degree murder, the individuals might face up to 20 years in prison.
An individual convicted of conspiracy might face jail time, probation, and fines. These penalties have the potential to upturn someone’s life, so it is critical for those facing conspiracy charges in Edina to consult with a dedicated attorney for guidance.
Several potential defenses to conspiracy might be available to an individual depending on their case’s circumstances. For example, in some cases, a person might have simply been in the wrong place at the wrong time, and they appeared to be a part of a crime.
In a criminal case, the burden of proof lies with the state and the prosecution. The burden of proof requires the state to prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, that an accused individual is guilty of a conspiracy offense. A well-versed conspiracy attorney in Edina could develop a robust defense that highlights the lack of proof on the prosecution’s behalf.
White-collar crimes like conspiracy may seem less serious than violent offenses, but the potential consequences can be just as severe. If you are facing charges of this nature, it is imperative that you get in contact with an experienced Edina conspiracy lawyer right away.
A seasoned attorney could establish legal strategies to help weaken the prosecution’s case and protection your rights under the law. A dedicated member of our legal team could work with you to ensure that you are informed throughout the process and advocate for your best interests. Call today to get started.