Your Dedicated Criminal Defense Attorneys
If you are facing criminal charges and require professional legal assistance, our Minneapolis, MN criminal defense lawyer can help you protect your rights and fight for a favorable resolution of your case. Facing criminal charges can be a daunting prospect, and the process of seeking a resolution can be difficult. You do not have to face your charges alone. Our criminal defense attorney provides dedicated, empathetic, and experienced service to every client, offering seasoned knowledge of criminal defense law in order to help you with your case. If you are facing criminal charges, acquiring legal assistance as soon as possible is essential for achieving success in your case. Our defense attorney has dedicated his entire career to criminal law. Contact our team at Archambault Criminal Defense today to schedule a consultation.
How Our Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You
Understanding each phase of the criminal trial process can significantly reduce the stress associated with facing proceedings and help you prepare more effectively. Founding and lead attorney, Derek Archambault, believes in empowering clients with the knowledge to face their legal challenges with confidence. After over 15 years of working prosecution, Derek decided to change sides. Now, he is using his insider know-how to help clients keep their records clear. Whether you’re dealing with criminal charges or trying to restore your constitutional rights, Attorney Derek is ready to help.
Our Minneapolis criminal defense attorney will assist you through every step of your case. Our process begins with an initial consultation in which our lawyer will discuss your charges and the circumstances of your case with you in order to determine the best next steps to take. We will discuss goals and strategy for your case in pursuit of the best possible outcome. We will launch a full investigation into your charges, gathering and reviewing all evidence related to your case. We will explore all resolutions for your case from negotiation and settlement to taking your case to court in order to contest the evidence and your charges. With a plethora of experience in criminal defense law, professional negotiation skills, and empathy for you and your needs, our criminal defense attorney can help you achieve a favorable result in your case.
Common Criminal Defense Cases
Criminal defense law includes a wide range of cases, and our firm is experienced in assisting clients who are facing a variety of criminal charges. Common types of criminal defense cases include DWI cases, assault, theft and property crimes, sex crimes, drug charges, weapon offenses, harassment, probation violations, and more. If you are facing charges and require assistance, our criminal defense attorney can offer you the best chance possible for success in your case. We provide personalized assistance tailored to your case along with experience working in many areas of criminal defense law.
The Importance of Dedicated Legal Assistance
We know how difficult it can be to face criminal charges. The prospect of managing the legal system can be daunting, but you do not have to do it alone. Our team is here to assist you and to serve as an aid, advocate, ally, and guide for you every step of the way. Our firm is dedicated to reaching a favorable outcome for your case. Whether that be through reaching a settlement, mitigating your charges, or dismissing your charges all together, we will work together towards the goals that we have set for your case.
Understanding Criminal Defense
When most people think of criminal defense attorneys, they imagine high-stakes courtroom dramas involving serious charges like theft, assault, or even murder. However, the scope of criminal defense extends far beyond these headline-grabbing scenarios, delving into areas of the law that many might not immediately consider. Our defense lawyer will play a pivotal role in upholding justice, offering guidance, and providing representation for a variety of less common, yet equally important, situations. Reach out to Archambault Criminal Defense to get assistance right away. We will help you maintain your freedom.
Protecting the Accused in Unusual Circumstances
One such area involves cases related to obscure or outdated laws that remain on the books. Every jurisdiction has its share of antiquated regulations—laws that, though rarely enforced, can suddenly become relevant in specific and unusual circumstances. For individuals unexpectedly caught in the crosshairs of such regulations, our skilled criminal defense attorney becomes an indispensable ally. Our legal team not only understands these unusual laws, but we also advocate for common sense and contemporary understanding in their application.
Advocating for Justice in Regulatory Violations
Another arena where hiring criminal defense attorneys are important is regulatory violations. Small business owners, for instance, can find themselves facing criminal charges due to unintentional non-compliance with complicated regulations. Whether it involves environmental laws, health and safety codes, or industry-specific guidelines, these situations require a defense that is both knowledgeable and strategic. Here, the goal is not only to defend against the immediate charges but also to minimize the impact on the client’s professional reputation and livelihood.
The Vital Role of Pre-Charge Situations
Less commonly known is the proactive role our attorneys play before formal charges are filed. In pre-charge investigations, having legal representation can significantly influence the outcome. During these critical early stages, our experienced defense lawyers work diligently to present evidence and arguments that may prevent charges from being filed at all. This preemptive defense strategy can save individuals from the public and personal turmoil that often accompanies criminal allegations.
Mitigating the Consequences of Mistaken Identity and False Accusations
Digital footprints are omnipresent, and cases of mistaken identity and false accusations have become increasingly concerning. Individuals may find themselves wrongfully accused due to errors in digital evidence, misidentification, or malicious claims. In these delicate situations, our criminal defense attorney’s job is to meticulously unravel the inaccuracies and present a clear, factual defense. Our goal is to not only defend the innocent, but also uphold the integrity of the legal system. This is why it is absolutely essential to contact our lawyer before proceeding with anything related to a criminal case.
What to Expect During the Criminal Trial Process
Facing a trial can be intimidating, but our Minneapolis criminal defense lawyer can walk you through the process. We help to demystify the stages involved in a criminal trial, so you feel more prepared and informed as you approach your court date.
- Selection of the Jury
The trial process begins with jury selection, known as voir dire. During this phase, potential jurors are questioned by both the defense and the prosecution to determine any biases that could affect their judgment. This is a key component to a fair trial. Jurors are selected based on their ability to remain impartial and to decide the case based only on the evidence presented in court.
- Opening Statements
Once the jury is selected, the trial officially starts with opening statements. The prosecution will outline what they believe the evidence will show. The defense will present a general overview of the case from their perspective, possibly highlighting weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence.
- Presentation of Evidence
The prosecution presents its case first by calling witnesses and introducing evidence against the accused. After the prosecution rests, our criminal defense attorney can present evidence and witnesses on your behalf.
- Cross-Examination
During cross-examination, the opposing side has the opportunity to question witnesses brought by the other side. This is a vital part of the trial as it allows both the defense and the prosecution to challenge the credibility of the testimony and the accuracy of the evidence presented.
- Closing Arguments
After all evidence has been presented and witnesses have testified, both sides make their closing arguments. This is their last chance to summarize the case and make a final appeal to the jury for a verdict in their favor.
- Jury Deliberation
Following closing arguments, the jury is sequestered to deliberate and come to a unanimous decision. If the jury cannot reach a unanimous decision, it may result in a hung jury, and the case may be tried again with a new jury.
- Verdict
The trial culminates with the jury’s verdict. If the defendant is found not guilty, they are acquitted of the charges and immediately released. If the defendant is found guilty, the trial moves to the criminal sentencing phase where penalties will be determined.
- Sentencing
In cases where the verdict is guilty, a separate sentencing phase is conducted. During this phase, the judge will hear additional evidence from both parties before determining the appropriate sentence based on mandatory minimum sentencing laws, the severity of the crime, the defendant’s prior criminal history, and other relevant factors.
Minneapolis Criminal Defense Infographic
Minneapolis Criminal Defense Statistics
According to statistics from the Bureau of Justice Statistics, more than 10 million people are charged with crimes in the United States each year. The most common type of arrest is for a drug offense. The second most common type of arrest is for a property crime, followed by violent crime. The majority of arrests are made by local police departments.
If you have been arrested, don’t risk your rights or liberty by not having our skilled Minneapolis criminal defense attorney advocating for you. Call our office to find out how we can help.
Criminal Defense FAQs
Facing criminal charges can be a daunting and confusing experience, but our criminal defense attorney is here to advise and represent you throughout the entire process. Many people have questions about their charges and the potential implications and penalties that they hold. We are here to answer any question that you might have and keep you informed throughout the entire process.
If you are facing criminal charges and are seeking professional assistance, our lawyer is here to help you. As a former prosecutor, Derek Archambault has valuable knowledge of how the state works when prosecuting these cases, which will help him fight for you. We offer free consultations and a flat fee structure to all of our clients. To discuss your case with our attorney, contact Archambault Criminal Defense today.
What Should I Do If I Am Arrested?
If you are arrested, remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not provide any statements to the police without first speaking with our criminal defense attorney. You should politely decline to answer any questions until our attorney is present. This helps protect your rights and protects you from inadvertently saying something that could be used against you later. Contact our firm as soon as possible in order to start building your defense.
What Are My Rights If I Am Charged With A Crime?
If you are charged with a crime, you have several fundamental rights, including the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to a fair trial. You are presumed innocent until proven guilty, and it is the prosecution’s burden to prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. You also have the right to confront witnesses against you and to present evidence in your defense. Our lawyer will make sure that your rights are respected and that you receive a fair trial.
How Long Does The Criminal Defense Process Take?
The duration of the criminal defense process varies depending on the details of the case, the nature of the charges, and the court’s schedule. Some cases may be resolved quickly through plea agreements or dismissals, while others may take several months or even years to go to trial. Our team will keep you informed on the progress of your case at every stage and work diligently to resolve your case as efficiently as possible.
Do I Need A Lawyer If I Plan To Plead Guilty?
Even if you plan to plead guilty, retaining our criminal defense lawyer is essential. Our experienced lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution to secure a plea deal that may reduce the charges or the severity of the penalties. We make sure you fully understand the implications of a guilty plea and work to achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.
Can I Avoid Jail Time Even If I Am Convicted?
Avoiding jail time depends on various factors, including the severity of the charges, your criminal history, and the specifics of your case. Alternatives to jail time may include probation, community service, or participation in rehabilitation programs. Our experienced criminal defense attorney can negotiate with prosecutors to seek alternative sentencing options and minimize the impact on your life.
Minneapolis Criminal Defense Glossary
Our Minneapolis, MN criminal defense lawyer utilizes their experience to explain legal terms and secure the best possible outcome for our clients. Our experienced team recognizes that when facing criminal charges, it’s important to understand the legal terminology and processes that may apply to your case. Below are five important legal terms and phrases frequently encountered in criminal defense.
Voir Dire
Voir Dire is the process of jury selection that takes place before a trial begins. During voir dire, both the defense and prosecution have the opportunity to question potential jurors. The aim is to identify any biases, prejudices, or preconceived notions that might impair a juror’s ability to fairly evaluate the case. Our attorneys use this opportunity to make sure that an impartial jury is selected, which can have a significant impact on the trial’s outcome. Our award-winning Minneapolis criminal defense attorney may seek to dismiss jurors who appear to have strong biases against the defendant’s case.
Pre-Charge Investigation
A pre-charge investigation is a legal strategy employed by defense attorneys to gather evidence and present arguments to prevent formal charges from being filed against a client. This process often involves negotiating with law enforcement or prosecutors before an official charge is brought, in hopes of dissuading the authorities from moving forward with the case. By providing compelling evidence early on, our defense lawyer can potentially convince the prosecution that there is insufficient evidence to pursue charges, thereby saving the client from the stresses of a formal trial.
Expungement
Expungement is the legal process by which an individual can petition to have certain criminal records sealed or destroyed. This typically applies to non-violent offenses or cases where the individual was acquitted or had charges dismissed. Expunging a criminal record can offer a fresh start for individuals, as it removes the record from public access, making it more difficult for employers, landlords, or others to discover. However, not all offenses are eligible for expungement, and the process can be complicated, often requiring the assistance of our skilled criminal defense attorney to succeed.
Mitigating Circumstances
Mitigating circumstances are factors that may reduce the severity of a criminal charge or sentence. These circumstances don’t excuse the criminal behavior but provide context that can make the defendant’s actions appear less severe or more understandable. For example, if a defendant committed a crime under extreme emotional distress or was coerced by another person, these details can be presented in court to influence the judge’s sentencing decisions. Our skilled criminal lawyer will thoroughly investigate a client’s case to uncover any mitigating circumstances that could lessen the punishment.
Regulatory Violations
Regulatory violations refer to offenses that occur when individuals or organizations fail to comply with specific regulations or rules set by governmental agencies. These violations are often seen in industries like healthcare, environmental protection, or finance. While they are not typically criminal in nature, regulatory violations can still result in significant legal consequences, including fines, penalties, or even criminal charges in cases of willful neglect. Our lawyer may represent a client in these types of cases, helping them avoid penalties or reduce charges related to non-compliance.
Archambault Criminal Defense, Minneapolis Criminal Defense Attorney
400 S 4th St 3rd Floor, Minneapolis, MN 55415
Contact Our Minneapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, it’s imperative you hire our dedicated and knowledgeable defense team. We know that this can be a difficult and frightening time, and we will do everything in our power to protect your rights and help you reach a favorable outcome. For more information on how we can assist you, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
Whether you’re facing an unusual legal predicament, dealing with regulatory complications, or seeking to clear your name from wrongful accusations, it’s essential to have our experienced advocate by your side. Our firm specializes in providing comprehensive defense services. If you or someone you know could benefit from our legal guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Protecting your rights and securing your future is not just our profession—it’s our passion. Contact Archambault Criminal Defense today to protect your tomorrow.
