Misdemeanors are the less-serious category of criminal charges in Minnesota, but don’t make the mistake of thinking that “less serious” means “dismissible slap on the wrist.” A misdemeanor charge can still carry a sentence of up to a year in jail, plus thousands of dollars in fines, court costs, and restitution. Even after you’ve paid your dues, you could find that a misdemeanor charge can affect your employability, college financial aid, and even housing, depending on the charge. The best chance for your future lies in a vigorous defense from our skilled Brooklyn Park, MN misdemeanor lawyer. You have the right to an attorney, so call the right firm today: Archambault Criminal Defense. We start protecting your rights from the moment you become our client.
Misdemeanor Lawyer Brooklyn Park, MN
Misdemeanor charges are less serious than a felony and carry lesser penalties, but just because the punishments aren’t as serious doesn’t mean you can take them lightly. The maximum jail sentence for a misdemeanor in Minnesota is 90 days, with a maximum fine of $1,000, unless you’re charged with a gross misdemeanor, which carries a much harsher penalty of up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine. If you have to serve the entire sentence, you could easily lose your job and even your housing. And, once you’ve paid your dues, you will still have a criminal record. Depending on the type of misdemeanor charge you have, you may find it hard to get a job or be disqualified from getting federal financial aid for schooling.
As your Brooklyn Park misdemeanor lawyer, we fight to have the charges dropped, reduced, or, if we can’t do that, find you innocent at trial. We negotiate with the prosecutor on your behalf to secure the least severe penalty in a plea deal or to negotiate probation instead of jail time. We’re committed to protecting your rights and your freedom, and helping you get through this trouble.
Why Our Experience Matters In Your Misdemeanor Defense
Misdemeanor crimes are still crimes, and can carry serious life consequences if you’re convicted. Having a lawyer on your side can help mitigate the penalties, get the charges dropped, or improve your chances of winning at trial. Our experienced Brooklyn Park misdemeanor lawyer explores the best options in your case and fights to keep you out of jail and your record clear.
- Derek Archambault’s 15 years as a prosecutor give him an insider’s perspective on how the state builds cases to develop more effective defense strategies
- Our lead attorney is a former Minnesota state prosecutor with firsthand knowledge of the state’s arguments against people charged with DWI
- We are a Better Business Bureau Accredited Business with an A+ rating
- Derek is a certified MSBA Criminal Law Specialist, signifying a high level of expertise
- Derek was named in the Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers
You don’t have to fight a misdemeanor charge alone. Call Archambault Criminal Defense today for a legal consultation.
Types Of Misdemeanor Cases We Handle

Simple Assault
Simple assault cases often involve claims that someone caused minor injury to another person or attempted to do so. As your misdemeanor charge lawyer can explain, these cases frequently arise from disputes, arguments, or physical altercations between individuals.
Shoplifting Allegations
Retail theft is commonly charged as a misdemeanor when the value of the merchandise is relatively low. Evidence in these cases may include store security footage, witness statements, and reports prepared by store employees. Your misdemeanor defense attorney can help you investigate these reports to better protect yourself in court.
Disorderly Conduct
Disorderly conduct charges usually involve allegations of disruptive behavior in public places. These cases may arise from loud arguments, disturbances, or conduct that police claim created a public disturbance.
Trespassing
Trespassing allegations involve claims that a person entered or remained on property without permission. These cases often arise when someone is accused of staying on private property after being told to leave.
Minor Theft Offenses
Some theft charges involve small amounts of property or money and are classified as misdemeanors. Even if it was something as minor as shoplifting, you should still contact a criminal defense attorney for misdemeanors. These cases may include allegations that someone took property without permission or failed to return borrowed items.
Driving While Intoxicated
Certain impaired driving cases are charged as misdemeanors, especially when the person does not have prior convictions. These cases often involve questions about traffic stops, sobriety tests, and chemical test results.
Drug Possession
Misdemeanor drug charges often involve small amounts of controlled substances meant for personal use. Evidence may include substances found during a search, as well as laboratory reports identifying the material. You’ll need a criminal defense attorney for minor charges if you want to get through these allegations.
Vandalism
Vandalism allegations involve claims that a person damaged or defaced someone else’s property. These cases may involve broken windows, graffiti, or other forms of property damage. Your Brooklyn Park misdemeanor lawyer can help you clear your name.
Public Intoxication
Public intoxication charges involve claims that a person was visibly impaired by alcohol or drugs in a public place. Law enforcement may file these charges when they believe someone posed a risk to themselves or others.
Get In Touch With Us Today
Misdemeanor cases often depend on the details of the incident and the evidence gathered by law enforcement. Police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage may all play a part in how the case is handled in court. Our team reviews the facts carefully, looks at how the investigation was conducted, and prepares a defense based on the circumstances of the case.
Archambault Criminal Defense has helped clients with DWIs, assaults, and more. With over 15 years of experience, we’re ready to protect your future. Contact us today to get started with a Brooklyn Park misdemeanor lawyer from our team.