Minneapolis Violent Crime Lawyers

Fighting For Your Rights and Future 

If you or someone you love were charged with a violent crime, the time to act is now.

Violent crimes are among the most serious types of charges in our criminal justice system, and they put severe penalties and prison time on the table. What’s more, being convicted of a crime of violence can have devastating consequences when it comes to restricting your rights and limiting personal and professional opportunities for the rest of your life. 

At Brockton D. Hunter P.A., we have decades of experience fighting for clients charged with serious crimes. We’re backed by award-winning defense attorneys who know what’s at stake in cases involving violent crimes and how to help clients protect their rights, freedoms, and futures when facing charges levied by the state or federal government. 

Ready to discuss your defense? Call (612) 979-1112 or contact us online to speak with a Minneapolis violent crime attorney. We serve civilians and veterans across the Twin Cities and beyond.

Violent Crime Cases We Handle

In Minnesota, most violent crimes are felony offenses – though some, including low-level assaults and some domestic violence charges, can be prosecuted as misdemeanors. And while penalties for violent crimes can vary depending on classification, allegation severity, and other factors, all violent criminal charges come with serious penalties and lasting repercussions that can radically alter your life.

Our attorneys have the experience to defend clients charged with a variety of violent crimes prosecuted at both the state and federal level. 

Here are some examples of violent crimes commonly prosecuted in the Minneapolis – St. Paul region include:

• Assault and Battery. Assault and battery charges in Minnesota range from First-Degree, involving great bodily harm or use of deadly force (often against law enforcement), to Fifth-Degree, which covers attempts or threats to cause fear of bodily harm. Charges escalate based on factors like the severity of harm, use of weapons, and the status of the victim (i.e. police officers, minors). In assault and battery cases, we tailor our defense strategies to the specific charge, focusing on reducing charges, challenging the evidence, and protecting our clients’ rights at every stage of the legal process.
• Domestic Assault. This encompasses any assault against a family member or intimate partner and often involves related charges such as violations of restraining orders or Domestic Abuse No Contact Orders (DANCO). Cases involving domestic violence are delicate matters, which is why we work to protect clients’ rights and reputations through strategic defense strategies and negotiated charge reductions or dismissals. 
• Kidnapping/False Imprisonment. Kidnapping involves unlawfully confining or abducting someone against their will. False imprisonment is the unlawful restraint of another person without their consent. Both charges carry severe penalties. We investigate all circumstances to challenge allegations and explore possible defenses, including those related to consent or lack of intent.
• Terroristic Threats / Threats of Violence. Making threats of violence with the intent to terrorize another person can lead to serious charges, often classified as felonies in Minnesota. In these cases, we analyze the context of alleged threats and work to demonstrate that no genuine intent to terrorize existed.
• Robbery. Robbery differs from burglary in that it involves the use of force or threats to take someone’s property. Minnesota classifies robbery as Simple Robbery or Aggravated Robbery (First or Second Degree). For clients facing these charges, we challenge the prosecution’s case by questioning the alleged use of force and examining all available defenses.
• Rape/Sexual Assault. These charges include a range of sexual offenses such as child sex abuse, criminal sexual conduct, and rape. Penalties are harsh, with mandatory prison time and sex offender registration requirements. We handle these sensitive cases with the utmost discretion, challenging the evidence and working to protect our clients’ futures.
• Weapons/Firearm Offenses. These include charges related to the illegal possession of prohibited weapons (e.g., brass knuckles, machine guns, etc.) and possession of firearms by felons, as well as gun crime enhancements. We examine the legality of the search and seizure, the client's criminal history, and potential defenses to mitigate penalties.
• Manslaughter. There are two manslaughter charges in Minnesota: First-Degree Manslaughter, which involves intentional killings under circumstances that reduce the defendant’s culpability, such as heat of passion or self-defense, and Second-Degree Manslaughter, which generally involves reckless conduct leading to another person’s death. We build defenses based on the circumstances surrounding the act, work to demonstrate a lack of intent or recklessness, and explore options for lesser charges and penalties. 
• Homicide. As the most serious violent crime, murder charges demand an immediate defense. In  Minnesota, these charges may include First-Degree Murder (which involves premediated killings or those committed during certain felonies), Second-Degree Murder (which applies when a killing is intentional but not premeditated, or when it occurs during the commission of a felony), and Third-Degree Murder (which involves actions that show a reckless disregard for human life, resulting in death).
• Violent Juvenile Crimes. The stakes are high when minors are accused of violent crimes, especially if the case is moved to adult court. Our firm makes it a priority to keep cases in juvenile court, where the focus remains on on rehabilitation and protecting young folks’ futures.

Violent Crime Penalties in Minnesota

Penalties for violent crimes in Minnesota can vary significantly depending on the specific charge, the circumstances of the crime, and the defendant's criminal history. Sentences can range from probation and fines for lesser offenses to lengthy prison terms for more severe crimes like first-degree murder. Additionally, factors such as the use of a weapon, the severity of injuries caused, and whether the victim was a public officer or a vulnerable individual can escalate the severity of the charges and penalties.

Some key factors that can influence sentencing include:

• Criminal History. Prior convictions can lead to harsher penalties, especially if the crime involves repeated violent behavior.
• Aggravating Circumstances. The presence of aggravating factors, such as using a deadly weapon, targeting vulnerable victims, or committing the crime in a particularly cruel manner, can result in enhanced penalties.
• Mitigating Circumstances. Factors like a lack of prior criminal record, acting under duress, or cooperation with law enforcement may lead to more lenient sentencing.

In Minnesota, many violent crimes are subject to mandatory minimum sentences, especially for crimes involving firearms or repeat offenders. Additionally, violent crime convictions can carry lifelong consequences beyond imprisonment, which is why it’s critical to mount a strong defense.

Consequences of Violent Crime Charges

Being charged with a violent crime in Minnesota can lead to far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the courtroom. 

In addition to penalties like imprisonment, fines, and probation, those convicted may face:

• Restraining Orders. Victims may obtain restraining orders that limit your ability to contact certain individuals, including family members or co-workers, or go certain places.
• Immigration Consequences. Non-U.S. citizens may face deportation or denial of citizenship due to a violent crime conviction, as these charges are often classified as aggravated felonies.
• Loss of Rights. Violent crime convictions can result in the loss of important rights, including the right to vote, possess firearms, or hold certain professional licenses.
• Professional Consequences. Many employers and licensing boards take criminal convictions seriously, and a conviction can jeopardize your current job or prevent you from securing future employment.
• Criminal Record. A conviction will be a permanent part of your criminal record, which can affect housing options, educational opportunities, and personal relationships. Expunging convictions for violent crimes can also be challenging.

Given these severe consequences, it’s essential to have skilled legal representation to navigate the complexities of the criminal justice system and protect your future.