COVID-19, Domestic Violence, and What to Do if Arrested During Lockdown
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has extended the state’s stay-at-home executive order to May 4 – three weeks longer than originally anticipated. In other words, Americans, including Minnesotans, are still right in the middle of the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, with seemingly no certain end in sight.
It’s a frightening time. But it’s also difficult to stay home with our families or alone, with none of the usual routines and social outlets in place that keep us grounded, busy, and happy. Jobs have been lost. People are stressed. When our lives are disrupted, trouble can happen. People often drink more, fight more, and do things they normally wouldn’t do.
After all, who would have ever expected a global pandemic?
Bloomberg ran a recent story that said while overall crime is lower with much of the country in government-ordered lockdown, the risk of domestic violence is climbing. “It’s tougher for burglars to find an empty house to target,” the article says, “but cooped-up residents seem more likely to fight each other.”
At the same time, panic has led to virus-related crimes across the country, especially in heavily-populated metropolitan areas. “Thieves steal surgical masks. A clinic sells fake COVID-19 tests. Hate groups encourage sick members to infect law enforcement officers. Imposters pose as public health officials. Con artists peddle fake cures and financial scams,” according to Time. And that story ran two weeks ago, in what felt like the early days of the pandemic for much of the country, including Minnesota.
Charged with a Crime During Coronavirus Lockdown? Seek Legal Help Now
If you’ve been charged with domestic assault, assault, theft, public intoxication, a weapons charge, DWI, or any other crime, the most important thing to remember is to never talk to investigators without talking to an attorney first. Contact the Minneapolis criminal defense law firm of Gerald Miller, P.A. We will quickly evaluate the strength of the case against you and discuss a defense strategy.
You are not in this alone. We’re here to help you. Call us for a free consultation at 612-440-4610 or visit our website.
Gerald Miller, P.A., is an experienced, award-winning Minneapolis criminal defense law firm. We are abiding by the shelter-in-place order and working from home, but our attorneys are still available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to assist you via phone or video conference. We will provide you with a free case consultation. And, when it’s time to go before a judge or jury, we will tirelessly fight for your rights.
Our attorneys – Jerry, Kyle, and Cody – are compassionate, knowledgeable, and experienced. And we understand that the uncertainty of coronavirus only makes the confusion of an arrest and criminal case even more stressful. We will be strong for you; the calm voice of authority you need and deserve.
Minnesota Courts Update
On April 9, following Walz’s COVID-19 announcement, Minnesota Supreme Court Chief Justice Lorie S. Gildea issued a new statewide order with heavier restrictions for in-courtroom hearings. The order requires hearings by remote technology for all other case types and hearings; and extending fine due dates by 60 days. An excerpt:
“The Minnesota Judicial Branch will continue to rely on public health experts to determine when conditions in our courthouses may begin to return to normal. The expanded availability of remote hearing technology in all locations in the state will allow more cases to continue despite the necessary restrictions on physical access to courthouses,” Gildea said. “I commend our district and appellate courts and the many justice partners who have worked tirelessly to adjust to the new technologies and processes during the COVID-19 pandemic.”
We will update you as the situation continues to unfold.
How to Cope When Arrested During the Lockdown
Getting charged with a crime is frightening and stressful. Fear of COVID-19, the hardship of job loss, the isolation of social distancing as well as being around family – unable to leave the house – can make your anxiety feel insurmountable.
We understand that this is a difficult time for everyone. Nobody is themselves. That’s why we are here for you to help, no matter what. Don’t wait. Your case – and your life – depends on the level of legal representation you bring to the table once the courts open again.
We’re in this together. Talk to you soon.
About Gerald Miller, P.A.
Were you or someone you love arrested for domestic assault, DWI or another crime during the COVID-19 lockdown? The process can be worrisome – or even frightening. There is a lot of legal jargon to weave through and court dates to attend.
You’re not alone. We can help, whether it’s your first domestic assault arrest or if you’ve been convicted in the past. If you are facing a Minnesota criminal conviction, the experienced Minneapolis defense attorneys at Gerald Miller, P.A. will review your case and determine the best course of action. We will guide you through the process, working toward a positive outcome no matter the circumstances of the arrest. Our firm has a high success rate. We’ve fought cases all the way to the Minnesota Supreme Court. We dig into every aspect of the case, from the time of the arrest the officer’s actions to the accuracy of their alleged evidence.
What makes Gerald Miller different from other Minnesota criminal defense lawyers?
The Minneapolis lawyers at Gerald Miller handle all aspects of criminal law across the Twin Cities and statewide, but we have focused on criminal defense for nearly 40 years. A domestic assault charge can affect your living situation, your finances, and your professional reputation. Don’t let one incident negatively impact your future.
We have earned dozens of positive Google, Yelp and Facebook reviews from satisfied clients. Our firm is widely recognized throughout the Twin Cities for our professionalism, compassion, knowledge, and dedication both in and out of the courtroom. The Minneapolis defense attorneys at Gerald Miller Law Firm are respected by our peers, colleagues, judges, and prosecutors. We have earned national awards and accolades from the American Bar Association, The National Trial Lawyers, the American Institute of DWI/DUI Attorneys, the National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys, the National Academy for DUI Defense, and more.
Gerald Miller, P.A. also has received the elite “SuperLawyer” distinction by Thomson Reuters.
Legal Counsel is Critical to Success
The sooner you contact us, the faster we can start protecting your rights. Even if your case cannot be dismissed, the charges may be reduced and punishment can be minimized, which are positive outcomes as well. There are a number of details in each person’s case that could have a huge impact on the possible outcome. It also helps if you were cooperative at the time of your arrest.
Contact us today to schedule your free and confidential case evaluation at 612-440-4610. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to give you some answers, a little hope, and plenty of well-deserved peace of mind. Visit www.geraldmillerlawyer.com or check us out on Facebook, Twitter,Instagram, and LinkedIn.
