Minneapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer

Being convicted of a felony crime could mean serving years in prison, paying steep fines, and losing some of your freedoms and legal rights. When you face accusations or a conviction for any crime in Minneapolis, fast action to protect your freedom and future is essential.

The criminal statutes in Minnesota divide offenses into two primary categories: misdemeanor offense crimes and felony crimes. Our experienced attorneys can represent you in either situation and identify the best way to beat these charges. Call a qualified Minneapolis criminal defense lawyer today to schedule a consultation if you need legal guidance and help planning a defense.

Common Criminal Offense Charges

BK Law represents defendants in all sorts of criminal cases. Some of the typical criminal offense charges in Minneapolis include:

• Property crimes, including theft
• Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
• Drug crimes, including possession or distribution
• Assault and battery or other violent crimes
• Domestic violence
• Sex offenses

It is always a good idea to contact a lawyer and learn if they represent individuals charged with a specific type of crime.

Misdemeanor Criminal Offenses

State statute divides misdemeanor offenses into three groups: petty misdemeanors, misdemeanors, and gross misdemeanors. Petty misdemeanor penalties do not include jail time, and a conviction will only result in paying fines and court fees.

Under Minnesota Statutes § 609.02, sentencing for a misdemeanor offense may include up to 90 days in the county jail and fines of up to $1,000. A gross misdemeanor conviction could mean spending up to one year in jail and paying fines of up to $3,000.

Sentencing Alternatives for Misdemeanors

In some cases, the state prosecutor may offer the defendant alternative sentencing called “continuance for dismissal (CFD).” The individual could have the opportunity to complete a diversion program and other stipulations in exchange for the dismissal of charges upon completion. A Minneapolis criminal defense attorney could work with the prosecutor on the defendant’s behalf to review the alternative sentencing options.

Felony Criminal Offenses

Felony criminal offenses carry the potential for a prison sentence of more than a year, in addition to steep fines. Some examples of felony crimes include murder, robbery, aggravated assault, and kidnapping. There are also felony drug crimes that carry stiff penalties.

Unlike the sentencing guidelines for misdemeanor crimes, felony offense sentencing varies depending on the case specifics. The criminal court judge could consider the severity of the crime, aggravating factors such as prior felonies, or whether the defendant committed the offense with a firearm. A felony murder conviction carries a sentence of life in prison, while a third-degree robbery conviction carries a maximum sentence of five years.

Some felony offenses also carry mandatory minimums. According to Minnesota Statutes § 152.021, a second conviction for a first-degree controlled substances crime has a mandatory minimum sentence requirement of four years of imprisonment. A Minneapolis criminal defense lawyer could review the statutes thoroughly and answer specific questions during a consultation.

Call a Qualified Criminal Defense Attorney in Minneapolis

After an arrest for a crime, you may feel intense emotions, including fear, anger, and distress. It is in your best interest to contact a legal professional to handle your defense.

A conviction for any crime on your permanent record, whether a misdemeanor or felony, can have lasting implications on your life. You could have problems finding new employment and housing, for example. A felony conviction will mean losing your legal right to vote or own firearms. A hard-working and knowledgeable Minneapolis criminal defense lawyer could provide legal advice and assistance to help reach the best potential outcome in your case. Contact us today for a consultation.