Criminal Investigations in Minneapolis

A lot is at stake in a criminal investigation, including charges that could lead to fines, jail time, and a criminal record, as well as the related effects to your reputation and livelihood. When you are facing a criminal investigation, you should retain the services of an experienced criminal attorney to ensure you face the legal process with seasoned counsel at your side.

Regardless of the specifics of an investigation or the possible charges, a lawyer knowledgeable about criminal investigations in Minneapolis could put together a strong defense and advocate for your legal rights throughout the investigative process and – if necessary – in court.

The Fourth Amendment and Criminal Investigations

The Fourth Amendment, which protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures, is relevant to all criminal investigations. Whether law enforcement did something wrong during an interrogation, search, or arrest – including handling evidence incorrectly, or not reading Miranda rights, their mistake could lead to the suspension of an investigation or even dropped charges.

Finding law enforcement at fault in any way could mitigate the consequences to a defendant or subject of an investigation of any adverse finding. An experienced attorney in Minneapolis will have handled these types of law enforcement matters many times before, and will ensure the subject of a criminal investigation has not had their rights violated.

Presumption of Innocence

State law presumes every person innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt per Minnesota Statute § 611.01. It is up to the state to prove responsibility for a crime to a degree the average person would be certain of a defendant’s guilt in order to obtain a conviction.

Because the burden of proof in criminal investigations sits entirely with the prosecution in Minneapolis, a good attorney will do their best to poke holes in the prosecutor’s argument, raising doubts wherever appropriate. In instances where the evidence is overwhelming and the government’s case is strong, an attorney could advocate for a reduced fine or sentence.

Advocacy During the Investigative Process

Criminal attorneys are familiar with the specifics and nuances of the law, and they are trained to handle negotiations, including seeking a plea bargain, reduced charges, or an alternative sentence such as probation, mental health and substance abuse treatment, and restorative justice programs.

An experienced attorney will also know what to look for to challenge the evidence found in police reports, witness statements, and forensic data such as video surveillance and fingerprints. By mounting a vigorous challenge to the prosecution’s criminal investigation, a good attorney in Minneapolis could have charges dropped or argue for a reduced sentence after conviction.

Call a Minneapolis Attorney for Help During a Criminal Investigations

The consequences of the court ruling against you in a criminal investigation can be life-changing, including jail time. This situation is serious. Do not attempt to navigate the complexities and difficulties of the legal process alone. Too much is at stake.

If you are under criminal investigation in Minneapolis, call an experienced lawyer at BK Law Group today. Take some of the stress out of the process and get working on a fresh start today with a skilled lawyer at your side.