Getting out of jail is the first priority. At a subsequent pretrial hearing, the judge usually considers legal defenses, like a lack of evidence and self-defense. At trial, the judge or jury hears both sides of the story and makes a determination. Plea bargains, which...
When arrested on any type of assault charge, your mind is full of questions and concerns. You may be wondering if you will go to prison. If so, for how long? How much will this cost you? Can you even afford it? Out of all these questions, the most important will...
There are many different types of assault charges. The least serious offense is a misdemeanor, and first-time offenders can potentially have the charge left off their record by completing a diversion program. In Minnesota, an assault charge can quickly become a far...
No. The alleged victim is technically a witness in an assault case, and witnesses do not have the authority to bring or drop charges. Only the state has such power. If an alleged victim or any other witness refuses to cooperate, prosecutors could issue a...
At common law, assault (swinging at someone) and battery (hitting someone) were separate offenses. These infractions are combined in Minnesota. Depending on the facts, assault or battery could be a misdemeanor or a felony.
Normally, an arrest is just an accusation. It’s not a conviction, so there are no gun ownership rights restrictions. However, Minnesota lawmakers recently approved a red flag law. Persons who are significant dangers to themselves or others, a category which could...
The COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent quarantine requirements is turning out to be a huge psychological test for many of us. Sequestered inside our homes and fearful of a spreading deadly disease, nobody completely feels like themselves. News reports across the...
Under Minnesota law, a domestic assault has a broad definition and an array of consequences that can vary depending on the details of your case. Typically domestic assault occurs when you commit an assault against a family or household member. To assault someone, you...
In August 2012, Thomas Struzyk was charged with multiple crimes, including felony 4th degree assault of a peace officer, stemming from an incident where a police officer was attempting to serve an arrest warrant on Mr. Struzyk. The arrest warrant alleged that Mr....