Arneson and Geffen, PLLC handle all arrests including felonies, misdemeanor and gross misdemeanors. Felonies are classified as the most serious type of conviction in the state of Minnesota and come with a minimum prison sentence of one year and usually a minimum fine of $1,000. However, many felony offenses include life imprisonment and fines up to $1,250,000. Gross misdemeanors and misdemeanors are less serious criminal convictions that include 90 days to 3 years in prison and fines from $300 to $3,000. No matter how serious the offense, we can take care of your defense.
Felony Crimes
Felonies can include, but are not limited to first degree DUI and DWI convictions, murder, homicide, manslaughter, drug offenses, weapon and gun charges, assault, battery charges, sexual assault, criminal sexual conduct, arson, white collar crimes, theft, fraud, larceny and burglary.
Gross Misdemeanor and Misdemeanor Crimes
Gross misdemeanor and misdemeanor offenses can include second, third and fourth degree DUI and DWI convictions, some criminal sexual conduct acts such as indecent exposure, prostitution and lewd acts, repeat assaults and violations, driving offenses, traffic violations, shoplifting and petty theft.
Felony and Misdemeanor Procedure
The procedure for felony, misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases are quite similar. After you are arrested, you will be put in jail. You will have the right to call a lawyer and explain your side of the story. You will then make a bail appearance where your release conditions will be determined. You will then go through an arraignment hearing, an omnibus hearing and a pre-trial hearing. If an agreement is made between the defendant’s lawyer and the prosecutor, then the case is over. This is known as a ‘plea.’ However, if no plea is reached, then the defendant will need to prepare for a court date where he will stand on trial in front of a judge or jury. If the defendant is found guilty, the defendant will be charged with a felony, misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor and appropriate sentencing will be determined.
Special Felony Cases
Some felony offenses will be handled in a different court system. For example, drug crimes are handled in a specific Minnesota court while offenses that cross the state boundaries are typically handled by the United States Federal Court System. This can include crimes such as internet fraud, mail and wire fraud, tax evasion and other crimes that affect a federal institution.
How Will A Conviction Affect You?
Felonies, gross misdemeanors and misdemeanors can all negatively impact your ability to move on with your life after a conviction. All three convictions will end up on your criminal record which can be accessed by potential employers, financial institutes, landlords, schools and even the general public. With felony convictions, you may also lose your right to vote, your ability to own firearms and your ability to travel overseas. You may be able to seek expungement for felonies, gross misdemeanor and misdemeanor offenses but it is a good idea to wait at least two years or longer before looking into this option.
Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer and Felony Attorney Minnesota
Arneson & Geffen, PLLC handle all criminal offenses and can provide you and your family with the aggressive representation, dedicated legal assistance and a sound defense that will make all the difference to your case. Contact one of our skilled attorneys by calling 612-465-8581 for a free consultation.
Minneapolis Criminal Lawyer & Defense Attorney
Arneson & Geffen, PLLC represent clients throughout Minnesota, including the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, Mankato, St. Cloud, Moorhead, Apple Valley, Blaine, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Burnsville, Coon Rapids, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Edina, Lakeville, Maple Grove, Maplewood, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Richfield, Roseville and Woodbury.