Anyone who has been accused of committing a crime in the state of Minnesota has the right to seek legal counsel. But the legal team that you hire can make a difference in the outcome of your case. While public defenders do work hard to fulfill their obligations, they are often burdened with too many cases at one time, and may not be able to give you the individualized attention your situation deserves. If you want the best chance of dismissing your charges, then hiring our Minneapolis, MN misdemeanor lawyer may be necessary. We can help you establish a strong defense, collect exculpatory evidence on your behalf, and help prevent the most severe penalties related to your charges. Derek Archambault from Archambault Criminal Defense today to get started working on your case today.
How Derek Can Protect You
Your legal counsel can play an important role in gathering evidence, finding proof that supports your case, and preventing the prosecution from using evidence that was gathered through unlawful means. Derek can protect you by creating a convincing argument to get your charges reduced or dropped. If possible, he may be able to negotiate for a favorable plea bargain with the prosecution. If you have recently been accused of a crime, the next steps you take are going to have an impact on your future and freedom. Derek aims to preserve your reputation and safeguard your rights during a time when the outcome may feel uncertain.
Misdemeanor And Felonies
There is a difference between felony and misdemeanor charges. Minnesota law sets forth a clear distinction of the two and the degree of punishment is determined by which type of crime it is categorized under. As our knowledgeable misdemeanor attorney explains, a misdemeanor crime is either considered a normal misdemeanor, a petty misdemeanor, or a gross misdemeanor. Which category will depend on the nature and severity of the offense and also determine how long of a prison term a person may have to serve.
A petty misdemeanor may result in a few hundred dollar fine and tends to include most traffic violations. A normal misdemeanor may bring 90 days in jail and a fine of a thousand dollars. Examples of these offenses would be assault (striking someone), stealing property less than $500, and a first DWI. By comparison, a gross misdemeanor can lead to a year in prison and a several thousand dollar fine. Offenses considered gross misdemeanors can be a second DUI within ten years, a second assault within ten years against the same individual, or stealing property that is worth between $500 and $1000. If you have questions about this, please contact Derek as soon as you can.
Archambault Criminal Defense
We understand the stress that a criminal charge can have on someone. Our MN misdemeanor attorney is ready to come to your side. Once Derek knows more about the offense and what happened, he can offer further advice. We urge you to contact our team at Archambault Criminal Defense today for a consultation.
Types Of Misdemeanor Charges We Handle
Misdemeanor charges can seem small on paper, but the reality is that any criminal charge can follow you for years. In Minneapolis, common misdemeanor offenses include first-time DWI, simple assault, petty theft, disorderly conduct, and trespassing. These offenses may carry penalties such as fines, probation, or jail time depending on the circumstances and classification.
Minnesota law divides misdemeanors into three levels: petty misdemeanor, misdemeanor, and gross misdemeanor. Each one carries a different maximum penalty. While a petty misdemeanor may only involve a fine, a gross misdemeanor can result in up to a year in jail. The long-term consequences can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing.
We understand that clients often face these charges with little to no background in the legal system. That is why we focus on giving clear direction from the start. With every case, we assess the charge, look at the details, and build a plan to move forward.
The Impact Of A Conviction On Your Record
A conviction for a misdemeanor offense can stay on your criminal record long after the case is resolved. Background checks used by landlords, employers, and licensing boards often include misdemeanor offenses, which can make it harder to move forward after a case is closed. We work to keep that from happening whenever possible.
Some offenses can carry additional penalties beyond the courtroom. Driving-related charges may lead to license suspension. Other cases could include probation conditions, mandated treatment programs, or no-contact provisions. We help our clients understand what to expect and what can be done to minimize those effects.
When people come to us, they are often surprised by how much a misdemeanor charge can impact their daily life. That is why we take these cases seriously and provide representation that reflects what is at stake.
Our Approach To Misdemeanor Defense
With experience on both sides of the courtroom, we approach every misdemeanor case with strategy and purpose. Before focusing on defense work, our attorneys served as a prosecutor handling charges in Minnesota courts. That gives us a clear view of how prosecutors evaluate and build their cases and how we can respond.
We are licensed in Minnesota and regularly represent clients in Minneapolis courts. From case evaluation to resolution, we guide our clients through each stage with honest communication and a focus on results. Every detail matters, and we build each defense with that in mind.
Attorneys like those at Archambault Criminal Defense can attest that early decisions in a misdemeanor case often shape the entire outcome. Having the right defense strategy in place from the beginning can help prevent a conviction, reduce the charge, or protect your record from long-term harm.
Protecting Your Record And Your Rights
When you are charged with a misdemeanor in Minneapolis, you deserve representation that takes your case seriously. Working with a misdemeanor lawyer Minneapolis MN gives you the opportunity to protect your record, your rights, and your future. We are ready to help you take the next step.
