Criminal Defense Attorney Minneapolis
Guidance for the Criminally Charged in Minnesota
At Brockton D. Hunter P.A., our award-winning Minneapolis criminal defense attorneys are passionate legal advocates. We get results. Whatever misdemeanor or felony charge you face, we may be able to help you. We represent clients in cases involving criminal charges across all areas of criminal law in Minnesota.
Why Choose Our Minneapolis Criminal Attorneys?
- Selected for Super Lawyers® (Top 5% of MN Attorneys) every year since 2011
- Perfect 10.0 Superb Avvo Ratings for Experience, Results, and Conduct
- Military Veterans Bringing Nationally Recognized Veterans Defense
- Track Record of Reduced Charges, Case Dismissals & Not Guilty Verdicts
We understand what is at stake when our clients face criminal charges, and we are dedicated to providing aggressive criminal defense both in and out of the courtroom. In the overwhelming and stressful experience of being investigated for or charged with a crime, our experienced Minneapolis criminal defense lawyers can explain each step of the criminal defense process to you, helping you to fully understand and assert your rights and options.
Additionally, we stay updated with the latest changes in Minnesota's legal landscape to ensure our defense strategies are both innovative and effective. We believe that understanding your unique situation allows us to offer more than just typical legal services—we offer personalized guidance tailored to your specific circumstances.
Ready to discuss your defense options? Call (612) 979-1112 or use our quick contact form below to reach our award-winning Minneapolis criminal defense attorneys.
How Our Criminal Lawyers in Minneapolis Can Help You
Veterans’ Defense
Those who have protected our country’s people and interests by serving in foreign and often dangerous locations may suffer psychological injury that leads to uncharacteristic behavior considered unlawful. Because of their unique experiences, veterans need defense from lawyers who recognize the intricacies of their situations and know what legal options are available to them. Our criminal attorneys in Minneapolis are both veterans who stand up for our nation’s heroes.
Our work goes beyond traditional defense, as we strive to raise awareness about the legal challenges veterans face. We collaborate with various veteran organizations to ensure comprehensive support throughout the legal process. This commitment to advocacy not only strengthens our defense strategies but also contributes positively to the broader veteran community.
Assault
This offense involves the intended or actual infliction of bodily harm upon another. Under Minnesota law, there are five degrees of assault, and charges range from misdemeanors to felonies. Despite the offense you have been accused of, it is necessary to get a skilled Minneapolis criminal defense attorney on your side right away.
We delve into the circumstances surrounding each case, exploring options such as self-defense or mistaken identity that might mitigate potential penalties. By collaborating with forensic experts and witnesses, we work to build a robust defense strategy. Our aim is to ensure the court understands the full context of the incident, which can often be more complex than it initially appears.
Criminal Sexual Conduct
Unlawful sexual contact or penetration is taken very seriously in MN. Depending on the situation, the penalties for a conviction can result in up to 30 years in prison. The stakes of being found guilty of criminal sexual conduct are too high not to retain skilled legal representation for your case.
Our approach focuses on the intricacies of each accusation, ensuring that any defense is comprehensive and considers all evidence. We also provide support in managing the public and media implications of such charges, recognizing the sensitive nature of these cases. Our objective is to safeguard your rights and pursue an outcome that is just and fair.
Theft
In general, theft involves the unlawful taking of another person’s or entity’s property. Minnesota law specifies several types of conduct falling under this definition. Whether you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor or felony theft, our Minneapolis criminal defense lawyers are ready to fight for you.
Our team takes a detailed approach to theft charges, examining all evidence, including witness testimonies and electronic records, to challenge the prosecution's case. In many instances, we can negotiate with prosecutors to reduce charges or seek alternative resolutions that avoid incarceration. Helping clients maintain their livelihoods and reputation is our top priority.
Juvenile Defense
If a person under 18 years of age is accused of a crime, their case will move through processes that differ from adult criminal matters. Because the juvenile justice system is structured differently, it is imperative that you have a lawyer on your side who understands the nuances of this system. Our team at Brockton D. Hunter P.A. can effectively guide you and your child through their case and fight to protect your child’s future.
We emphasize rehabilitation over punishment in juvenile cases, seeking opportunities for educational or community service programs that can aid in a young person's development. Our focus is not only on the present case but also on paving a path toward a positive future for the youth involved. This approach not only helps mitigate immediate legal consequences but also supports long-term growth.
Drug Crimes
Both the state and federal governments have strict laws concerning conduct involving controlled substances. Possessing, selling, and transporting drugs (as well as a range of other activities) are prohibited and can lead to a misdemeanor or felony charge. A conviction can ruin your life, which is why it is necessary to aggressively fight the accusation with the help of a Minneapolis criminal defense attorney.
Our defense strategies in drug cases often include investigating violations of search and seizure laws, scrutinizing the legality of evidence collection, and advocating for treatment-based alternatives where appropriate. We stay informed on evolving drug laws and policies to provide insightful and effective representation tailored to each client's situation.
The Minneapolis Legal Landscape: Insights from Criminal Defense Lawyers
The legal environment in Minneapolis is distinctly shaped by the state's rigorous approach toward criminal law enforcement and the local community's efforts to maintain safety and justice. Being home to a diverse population, Minneapolis demands a nuanced understanding of community issues and how they intersect with legal challenges. Local laws and regulations are constantly evolving, especially regarding drug-related offenses and domestic violence, areas where the legislation sees frequent updates.
Our attorneys at Brockton D. Hunter P.A. remain proactive in staying updated with the latest legislative changes, ensuring that our defense strategies not only comply with current laws but also leverage any amendments that may benefit our clients. Understanding the unique court procedures in Hennepin County, where Minneapolis is located, is crucial, as is recognizing the influences of major legal landmarks like the Minnesota Judicial Center.
Community-Centric Criminal Defense in Minneapolis
Community plays a pivotal role in shaping the defense strategies at Brockton D. Hunter P.A.. We recognize that each defendant is part of the larger Minneapolis fabric, and as such, we engage deeply with community issues. This includes understanding prevalent social challenges and integrating this awareness into our defense strategies. Whether it’s advocating for mental health supports for our clients or engaging with local advocacy groups, our approach is deeply rooted in community engagement.
Our holistic defense strategies involve not just a focus on the immediate legal challenges but also addressing the societal factors that may contribute to an individual's legal issues. By collaborating with local support services, we aim to provide our clients with comprehensive support that goes beyond the courtrooms, ensuring they are equipped to overcome both their legal challenges and their underlying causes.
DWI and Your Defense
Being found guilty of operating a vehicle while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol can seriously hamper the course of your life. Not only can a conviction result in incarceration and/or fines, but also the suspension of driving privileges. When you call Brockton D. Hunter P.A., we will act quickly to defend you.
Our defense includes thoroughly reviewing arrest procedures, scrutinizing the accuracy of breathalyzer and field sobriety tests, and questioning any procedural errors made during the arrest. We aim to protect your driving privileges and minimize the impact on your daily life. Early intervention is crucial, so contacting us at the first sign of legal trouble can significantly bolster your defense.
Domestic Assault
Harming or attempting to harm a family or household member is not a personal matter; it is a criminal one. Law enforcement officials and prosecutors take domestic assault crimes seriously and will work relentlessly to obtain a conviction. Our team is ready to be your champion, tirelessly seeking the best possible result on your behalf.
In domestic assault cases, we prioritize protecting our clients' rights while addressing any relationship dynamics that may impact the case. We explore options for mediation or counseling as a part of defense negotiations, helping to potentially resolve cases without the need for a trial. Our holistic approach aims to reduce conflict and incorporate support systems that can aid in a constructive resolution.
Expungements
Having an arrest or conviction on your criminal record can make it challenging to live the life you want. Career, educational, and other prospects can be severely hampered because of your criminal history. An expungement can seal the information from public access, allowing opportunities to open that had once been closed to you. Speak with our Minneapolis lawyers to learn more about pursuing this type of relief.
Our attorneys assess each client's eligibility and guide them through the expungement process, preparing compelling arguments to present in court. We work diligently to highlight rehabilitation and positive contributions made since the conviction, emphasizing why clearing the record serves justice. This proactive approach can be transformative, helping clients move forward without the stigma of past mistakes.
Federal Crimes
From mail and wire fraud to tax evasion and from identity theft to drug trafficking, various types of unlawful conduct fall under federal jurisdiction. If you have been accused of a federal offense, reach out to our team to learn how we can defend you.
Our defense strategies for federal charges include scrutinizing the jurisdictional issues and challenging the admissibility of evidence. We are adept at negotiating with federal prosecutors, often aiming for plea agreements that can reduce potential penalties. Understanding the nuances of federal procedures allows us to craft defenses that are both strategic and comprehensive.
Felonies
Felonies are the most serious offenses. A range of violations is charged at this level, including murder, drug crimes, criminal sexual conduct, and robbery. At Brockton D. Hunter P.A., our Minneapolis criminal defense attorneys understand the complexities of these cases and build sound defenses to challenge accusations.
We employ a multidisciplinary approach in defending felony charges, collaborating with former law enforcement officers and forensic experts to scrutinize every aspect of the case. Our thorough preparation equips us to expose weaknesses in the prosecution's case, seeking to identify any reasonable doubt that might lead to a favorable outcome.
Homicide
An act resulting in another’s death can result in homicide charges. In MN, several different crimes are considered homicide, including murder, manslaughter, and vehicular homicide. These are serious matters requiring serious defense, and our team is ready to provide the legal representation you need.
In homicide defenses, we focus on constructing timelines and gathering comprehensive evidence to contest charges aggressively. Our team is skilled at dissecting forensic evidence and engaging expert witnesses who can provide alternative narratives. The gravity of homicide charges demands a defense that is both meticulous and innovative.
White Collar Crimes
Typically, white collar crimes take place in business and government settings. Although they do not usually result in physical harm to another, they are still serious offenses that state and federal governments aggressively pursue. If you are facing charges, turn to Brockton D. Hunter P.A. for defense.
Our attorneys bring a precise understanding of financial regulations and compliance issues, allowing us to mount detailed defenses for white collar allegations. By leveraging our knowledge of regulatory frameworks, we aim to dismantle the prosecution's case, highlighting any inconsistencies and presenting a strong counter-narrative that champions justice and fairness.
Frequently Asked Questions from Our Criminal Defense Lawyers in Minneapolis
What Steps Should I Take If I Am Arrested in Minneapolis?
If you are arrested in Minneapolis, the first step is to remain calm and invoke your right to remain silent. Do not provide any statements to law enforcement without legal representation present. Immediately ask for a lawyer by insisting, “I want to speak to my attorney.” This is crucial because anything you say can be used against you in court. Contact our office as soon as possible. Our criminal defense attorneys are available to offer immediate guidance and representation.
In the meantime, avoid discussing the arrest with anyone else, including family or friends, until you have consulted with your lawyer. It's also advisable to note down the specific details of your arrest while they are fresh in your mind. This includes the environment, people involved, and what was communicated at the time of arrest. Such details can be vital in building a strong defense.
How Can a Criminal Record Affect My Future Opportunities?
Having a criminal record in Minnesota can have significant repercussions on various aspects of your life. It can impact your employment prospects, as many employers conduct background checks. Furthermore, it may hinder your ability to pursue educational opportunities, especially if scholarships or campus housing require a clean record. Even aspects of personal life, such as housing and relationships, can be affected when a criminal background is involved.
Our attorneys are experienced in seeking expungement to mitigate these consequences. We comprehensively assess your circumstances to explore options that may help clear your record, thus enhancing your ability to move forward positively. Our goal is to provide the necessary legal support that effectively addresses these challenges, ultimately safeguarding your future.
Are There Alternative Sentencing Options in Minnesota?
Minnesota offers several alternative sentencing options aimed at rehabilitation, particularly for first-time and non-violent offenders. These options can include probation, community service, substance abuse treatment programs, or electronic monitoring, commonly known as house arrest. Our firm can help explore these alternatives based on the specifics of your situation.
We prioritize advocacy for these alternatives where appropriate, recognizing that various circumstances deserve empathetic and restorative approaches. Understanding the eligibility criteria and legal pathways to access these options can be complicated, but our attorneys provide the insights needed to navigate them effectively.
What Is the Role of a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
A criminal defense lawyer in Minneapolis plays a crucial role in protecting the rights of individuals accused of crimes. Our responsibilities include investigating cases thoroughly to gather evidence, representing clients in court, negotiating plea deals when favorable, and providing strategic counsel throughout the legal process. At Brockton D. Hunter P.A., we dedicate ourselves to understanding each client's unique circumstances to deliver the best possible defense.
We act as your legal shield, prepared to challenge unlawful evidence, distorted testimonies, and procedural errors that may arise. Ultimately, our mission is to achieve outcomes that align with our clients' best interests, leveraging our extensive experience and commitment to justice.
How Does Brockton D. Hunter P.A. Handle Client Confidentiality?
Confidentiality is a cornerstone of the attorney-client relationship at Brockton D. Hunter P.A.. We adhere strictly to legal and ethical codes, ensuring that all communications between us and our clients remain private. This confidentiality extends to any information related to your case, your communications with us, and any documentation involved.
Our firm upholds rigorous standards to protect your information, utilizing secure communication channels and protocols to ensure your privacy is maintained. We believe that trust is the foundation of effective legal representation, and safeguarding your confidentiality is integral to building that trust.
What Are Aggravating Factors in a Criminal Case?
Aggravating factors are circumstances that increase the severity and responsibility of criminal acts. If you are convicted of a criminal offense, your penalties may be harshened depending on the presence of aggravating circumstances in your case. Aggravating factors elevate the seriousness of your crime, and as a result, you will suffer more severe consequences.
Each crime carries specific aggravating factors. If you were convicted of a violent, property, sex, drug or other crime, remember to avoid depending entirely on Minnesota’s sentencing guidelines to determine what your penalties may be. These guidelines are simply guidelines; they are not the sole determination of your future.
While it’s beneficial to learn what punishments you may suffer if convicted, be mindful that what you see in the MN sentencing guidelines is not always what you get. A judge will use their discretion to evaluate the presence of aggravating factors in your case and how to punish you accordingly. They will refer to the state sentencing guidelines but are free to enhance your sentence as they see fit.
Understanding the scope of aggravating factors is crucial because they can drastically alter sentencing outcomes. Our legal team invests time in identifying mitigating circumstances that could potentially counterbalance these aggravating factors, aiming to provide a comprehensive defense strategy. By doing so, we strive to lessen potential penalties and better serve our clients’ interests.
Understanding MN Aggravating Circumstances
Consider the following aggravating factors to better understand your potential legal penalties:
- Recidivism: This refers to your likeliness of reoffending or relapsing into criminal behavior. If a court detects recidivism in your case, they may impose harsher penalties.
- Prior criminal record: A conviction of one or more crimes in the past can enhance your sentencing.
- Tools used to commit the crime: If a firearm or dangerous weapon was used in the commission of a crime, you may suffer more severe punishments.
- Intent: A court may determine that your alleged crime was intentional and not by negligence or recklessness, thereby hurting your case.
- Lack of remorse: A judge and jury will examine you in court. Their perception of you and subsequent verdict may, in part, depend on whether you show regret for your alleged offense.
- Amount of harm to the victim: The amount of violence used in your alleged criminal acts can constitute as aggravating factors in your case.
- Committing the crime in front of a child: The presence of a child during the commission of your reported crime can result in stiffer legal penalties in your case.
To best avoid suffering the consequences of aggravating factors, our Minneapolis criminal defense attorney can aggressively defend your freedom and strategically negotiate for reduced or dismissed penalties on your behalf. Our proven ability to successfully advocate for our clients is demonstrated by our track record for favorable results.
Our attorneys routinely gather detailed information concerning every possible aggravating factor to prepare defenses that tackle these elements head-on. This thorough and personalized approach enables us to advocate powerfully for reduced sentences and alternative resolutions.
Passionate Advocacy for Your Criminal Defense in Minneapolis
When you are faced with a criminal charge, you should be able to trust that you have a Minneapolis criminal defense lawyer by your side who cares about the job he or she performs. Since the beginning, Brockton D. Hunter P.A. has provided tenacious advocacy for clients who are criminally charged. Our reputation has been developed through years of helping individual clients deal with their specific cases.
Our dedication extends beyond the courtroom as we strive to provide ongoing legal education and community support, ensuring that our clients have access to comprehensive resources that can aid in their defense. By building long-lasting relationships with local organizations and legal societies, we offer not just representation but also a supportive network.
Our Minneapolis criminal defense lawyers are committed to providing the highest level of legal service so that our clients have the best chance of obtaining a positive case outcome. Contact us today at (612) 979-1112.
Local Resources for Criminal Defense in Minneapolis
OUR VICTORIES
Our top priority is to devise customized legal strategies that are tailored to the unique legal needs of our clients, no matter how simple or complicated their case might be.
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The Result: Constitutional right to own firearms Gun Right Restoration: Right to Own Firearms Despite Felony Conviction
Our client, P.C. was convicted in the early 1990s for a felony offense which disqualified him from owning a firearm under Minnesota state and federal laws.
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Child Custody Victory Recent Divorce Case: Recouped Over $50,000 Worth of Pre-marital Funds and Assets
In 2014 a young single mother arrived in the law office of Brockton D. Hunter, P.A. desperate to tell her side of the story in a contentious divorce proceeding against her ex-husband.
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Not Guilty State of Minnesota v. Brady Zipoy
Not Guilty by Reason of Mental Illness verdict in State of Minnesota v. Brady Zipoy, a 2nd Degree murder case involving U.S. Marine veteran of the war in Syria, March 25, 2021.
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State of Minnesota v. FB
Stay of Adjudication Pursuant to Veterans Restorative Justice Act
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Not Guilty State of Minnesota v. Mustafa Shabazz
In June and July 2022 we won two back-to-back high profile jury trials, involving the same client, Mustafa Shabazz, a kids wrestling coach, who was falsely accused of sexually touching two of his wrestlers and prosecuted in two separate counties.
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Reduced STATE OF MINNESOTA v. N.J.: Client Charged With Gross Misdemeanor Third Degree Dui Pleads to Reduced Charge of Misdeameanor Four
N. J. Was charged with Third Degree DUI in Hennepin County after a blood test showed his blood alcohol content was .25, more than 3x the legal limit.