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...
Assault doesn’t always have to involve physically hurting someone. Assault can also be interpreted as acting in a way that makes someone afraid that you are going to harm them. In Minnesota, simple assault is classified as a misdemeanor. Minnesota law defines it as...
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...
Fifth-degree assault (ordinary assault) is usually a misdemeanor, although it could be a gross misdemeanor in some cases. The sentence for aggravated assault, which is always a felony, also varies, largely depending on the type of weapon used and/or the alleged...
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...
As of June 1, Minnesotans can return to their favorite restaurants and bars – in an outdoor seating capacity. While indoor dining and service is still restricted in the state, this next step in Gov. Tim Walz’s plan to reopen the state after COVID-19 is among the...
Many of us celebrated Memorial Day differently this year. Parades, concerts, and ceremonies were off the table as we continue to feel the effects of social distancing and COVID-19. Even so, Gov. Tim Walz is slowly loosening the state’s stay-at-home order, and those...
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many of us to accept a new normal — wearing face masks and gloves for protection, not being able to go to our favorite restaurants and bars, having to cancel plans with family and friends due to social distancing and more. A lot...