Minneapolis Misdemeanor Lawyers
Delivering Sound Legal Guidance and Tailored Defense Strategies
A misdemeanor in Minnesota is a criminal offense with a maximum penalty of up to one year in jail. It is distinguished from a felony, which involves a prison sentence of one year or more. Misdemeanors are often viewed as less severe than felonies, but this does not diminish the seriousness of their consequences. While they might be perceived as minor infractions, a misdemeanor conviction can still result in significant legal penalties, including jail time, fines, and a lasting criminal record.
The legal system can be daunting, especially when facing criminal charges. Without experienced legal representation, you risk navigating this system alone, potentially facing harsher penalties than necessary. A defense attorney can help you understand your rights, develop a robust legal strategy, and work toward a favorable outcome. Whether negotiating plea deals or defending your case in court, having a skilled lawyer is essential.
At Brockton D. Hunter P.A., we recognize that a criminal charge, even for a misdemeanor, is a deeply personal matter that can affect many areas of a person’s life. Our attorneys staunchly advocate for our clients, fighting fiercely to protect their rights and futures. We recognize that every case is unique and provide the personalized attention and vigorous defense our clients deserve.
Our Minneapolis misdemeanor defense attorneys are ready to hear your side of the story. Please contact us by calling (612) 979-1112.
Misdemeanor Classifications in Minnesota
Minnesota categorizes misdemeanors into three distinct levels: petty misdemeanors, misdemeanors, and gross misdemeanors. Each category varies in severity and has its own potential penalties, influencing how they are treated in the legal system.
Petty misdemeanors are considered minor offenses and are not classified as crimes under the law. They are punishable by only a fine. A step up from petty misdemeanors, standard misdemeanors are criminal offenses that can result in more significant penalties. Gross misdemeanors represent the most severe type of misdemeanor. These offenses are more serious than standard misdemeanors and carry harsher penalties.
Examples of Misdemeanor Offenses
Misdemeanors encompass various offenses that span across different categories of everyday life.
Traffic Offenses
Traffic-related misdemeanors are among the most common offenses.
These crimes include:
- Driving while intoxicated (Minnesota Statutes § 169A.20)
- Reckless driving (Minnesota Statutes § 169.13)
Theft and Property Crimes
Theft and property crimes are also frequently charged as misdemeanors.
Examples of these offenses include the following:
- Theft of property valued at less than $1,000 (Minnesota Statutes § 609.52)
- Less than $1,000 of damage to property (Minnesota Statutes § 609.595)
- Trespassing (Minnesota Statutes § 609.605)
Disorderly Conduct and Harassment
These misdemeanors involve disturbing the peace or making others feel unsafe.
The following are charges that fall under this category:
- Disorderly conduct (Minnesota Statutes § 609.72)
- Harassment (Minnesota Statutes § 609.749)
Drug-Related Offenses
According to Minnesota Statutes § 152.025, fifth-degree controlled substance offenses typically involve the possession of small amounts of illegal drugs.
Assault Crimes
Assault charges, particularly fifth-degree assault under Minnesota Statutes § 609.224, are also common misdemeanors and involve inflicting or attempting to inflict bodily injury on another person.
Possible Consequences of Misdemeanor Convictions
The consequences of misdemeanor convictions include immediate legal penalties and long-term repercussions.
The legal penalties for a misdemeanor can vary depending on the severity of the offense:
- Petty misdemeanor. A petty misdemeanor does not carry a jail sentence but can result in a fine of up to $300.
- Misdemeanor. A standard misdemeanor conviction can result in up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
- Gross misdemeanor. A gross misdemeanor is more severe, with penalties including up to one year in jail and/or fines of up to $3,000.
Long-Term Impacts
The consequences of a misdemeanor conviction extend beyond fines and possible jail time. A criminal record is one of the most impactful long-term impacts, as it can influence multiple areas of your life. It can create difficulties in securing employment or housing opportunities.
Additionally, even a seemingly minor offense can damage your reputation, personally and professionally. The stigma of a criminal conviction can affect relationships, community standing, and future opportunities.
Expunging a Misdemeanor
Expungement can be a powerful tool in mitigating the long-term effects of a misdemeanor conviction. Still, it is not automatically granted and requires a strong legal argument.
In Minnesota, petty misdemeanors, misdemeanors, and gross misdemeanors may be eligible for expungement under Minnesota Statutes § 609A.02. However, eligibility does not guarantee that expungement will be granted. The decision lies with the judge, who will consider factors such as the nature of the crime, the time that has passed since the completion of your sentence, and your overall criminal history.
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
State of Minnesota v. FB
Stay of Adjudication Pursuant to Veterans Restorative Justice Act
-
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.
-
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.