Facing license suspension? Unfortunately this is a serious and very annoying punishment for those who have acted recklessly on and off the road. If you are facing a license suspension, it is in your best interest to contact a Minneapolis traffic offense lawyer. You may be able to get your suspension reduced or completely cleared allowing you to get behind the wheel faster and move on with your life.

Why Was My License Suspended?

There are a number of reasons why you could have had your license taken away including the following:

• DWI offenses – This is one of the most common reasons for license suspension or license revocation across the state of Minnesota. Minnesota courts are strict when it comes to DUI offenses and, even if you are a first time offender, you could lose your license for a certain period of time. You could also have your license suspended for commercial driver DUI, underage DWI, BWI, AWI, SWI offenses and felony DUI
• Test refusal – if you are pulled over and refuse to take any of the DWI tests, you could also lose your license if convicted of a DWI offense.
• Criminal vehicular homicide – if you are involved in any CVO or CVH case, then license suspension is most likely the least of your worries. You could also be looking at a felony conviction, jail time and hefty fines.
• Traffic offenses – this includes anything from speeding, texting while driving, reckless driving or negligent driving
• In some instances, you may face license suspension even if you were not arrested for a DWI or traffic violation including:
• Failure to pay child support
• Drug charges
• Failure to pay fines
• Failure to appear for traffic tickets
• Out of state convictions

Minneapolis License Suspension Laws

Your license suspension will depend on the circumstances surrounding your case and the reason for suspension. Below is a guideline to some of the suspensions you could be looking at if facing a DWI conviction:

• 30 days for first time offenders, in some situations
• 90 days for additional DUI offenders
• 180 days for drivers under the age of 21
• 180 days if the driver has a prior impaired driving incident in the previous ten years
• 365 days for test refusal convictions

Facing License Suspension – What Next?

Keep in mind that, regardless of the level of suspension you are looking at, you only have 30 days to challenge a license suspension which means the sooner you act, the better your chances will be.

Don’t let a traffic violation affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights, your driving record and reputation as well as your personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Summer is upon us which means the kids are off school for a couple of months. It also means that many youth are spending more time at the mall, on the streets and in the shops. If your youth has gotten himself or herself in trouble over the school holidays and is facing a juvenile conviction, it is a smart move to contact an experienced Minnesota juvenile lawyer as soon as possible.

Juvenile Crime Cases

Juvenile crimes are classified as any crime committed by someone under the age of 18. Most juvenile crimes are misdemeanor offenses and may include:

• Petty theft – any theft under $500 is considered petty theft
• Petty offenses – these are offenses that are not considered crimes for those over the age of 21 but are if younger, such as smoking and disobeying curfew
• Shoplifting – most shoplifting crimes are committed by those under the age of 18
• Employee theft – employee theft can happen at any age and includes instances of stealing office supplies, voiding receipts to pocket the money, stealing from the cash register, taking stock without paying for it and switching price tags
• Traffic violations – including texting while driving, speeding and reckless driving
• Open bottle law – having alcohol in a public place
• Disturbing the peace – throwing loud parties, loitering, fighting and any other boisterous behavior is considered an offense

Facing a juvenile charge? What is at stake?

A juvenile conviction may not seem like that big of a deal but it can haunt your record and your future forever. Even if you avoid jail time, you could still be looking at electronic monitoring, house arrest, counseling, driving training, fines and community service. You could also be looking at a black mark on your driving record as well as your criminal record. This can (and in most instances, will), be accessed by potential colleges, landlords and employees making it hard to move on with your life past this conviction.

If you have been arrested for a juvenile crime, then your punishment will not only depend on the circumstances surrounding your case, but also at the evidence, where the crime was committed and who is overseeing the case. In an effort to rehabilitate the youth, Minnesota judges tend to be strict when it comes to juvenile cases. Your best defense against any juvenile arrest, regardless of how petty it may seem, is an experienced Minneapolis juvenile lawyer.

Don’t let a juvenile charge affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights and your reputation as well as your future. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Have you been arrested of a DUI? Is this your first offense? Are you unsure whether to hire a lawyer, to accept the consequences or to try and defend yourself? When it comes to first degree DUI offenses, it may seem like a waste of time and money to hire a Minnesota DWI attorney. After all, this was just a one-off thing right? The judge will know this and let you off with a warning, right? Unfortunately, this is most likely not the case

Do I Need a Minnesota DWI Attorney?

There is a good chance that, if this is your first offense, you will not go to jail, unless you are convicted of a series gross misdemeanor or felony offense. However, there is still a lot at stake including license suspension and fines. Even first time offenders can lose their license for anywhere from 30 to 365 days. In some instances you may be issued ‘whisky plates’. Either way, this can negatively impact your personal and professional life. Most of us rely on our cars to get to work, to get errands done and to get around town. It can be embarrassing and frustrating having to whisk the kids off to school in a vehicle with ‘whisky plates’ or having to rely on your colleague to drive you to and from work for three months.

Even one minor DWI offense will go on both your driving record and your criminal record. You can kiss low cost insurance rates goodbye and you may also have a hard time finding decent employment, housing and financial assistance in the future. After all, landlords, employers and lending companies often include a background check as part of the application process.

Repeat Offenders and Advice

Repeat offenders will need a Minnesota DUI lawyer. As every subsequent DWI arrest is made more severe, you will want to lower your risk of conviction as best as possible. In general, the better defense you have, the better outcome you will be granted. Keep in mind that three repeat DUI charges is considered a felony offense – this is something all Minnesota drivers will want to avoid.

The Bottom Line of Minnesota DUI Arrests…

If you have been arrested for a DWI offense, regardless of if this is your first or fifth offense, a phone call to a Minneapolis DWI lawyer can make all the difference in the world. Look for an experienced Minnesota DWI attorney that provides 24/7 service as well as a free initial consultation. Keep in mind that, in all Minnesota counties, you only have 30 days to contest a DUI arrest which means the sooner you act, the better your chances will be.
Don’t let DUI charge affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights, your driving record and reputation as well as your personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Facing license suspension? Unfortunately this is a serious and very annoying punishment for those who have acted recklessly on and off the road. If you are facing a license suspension, it is in your best interest to contact a Minneapolis traffic offense lawyer. You may be able to get your suspension reduced or completely cleared allowing you to get behind the wheel faster and move on with your life.

Why Was My License Suspended?

There are a number of reasons why you could have had your license taken away including the following:

• DWI offenses – This is one of the most common reasons for license suspension or license revocation across the state of Minnesota. Minnesota courts are strict when it comes to DUI offenses and, even if you are a first time offender, you could lose your license for a certain period of time. You could also have your license suspended for commercial driver DUI, underage DWI, BWI, AWI, SWI offenses and felony DUI
• Test refusal – if you are pulled over and refuse to take any of the DWI tests, you could also lose your license if convicted of a DWI offense.
• Criminal vehicular homicide – if you are involved in any CVO or CVH case, then license suspension is most likely the least of your worries. You could also be looking at a felony conviction, jail time and hefty fines.
• Traffic offenses – this includes anything from speeding, texting while driving, reckless driving or negligent driving

In some instances, you may face license suspension even if you were not arrested for a DWI or traffic violation including:

• Failure to pay child support
• Drug charges
• Failure to pay fines
• Failure to appear for traffic tickets
• Out of state convictions

Minneapolis License Suspension Laws

Your license suspension will depend on the circumstances surrounding your case and the reason for suspension. Below is a guideline to some of the suspensions you could be looking at if facing a DWI conviction:

• 30 days for first time offenders, in some situations
• 90 days for additional DUI offenders
• 180 days for drivers under the age of 21
• 180 days if the driver has a prior impaired driving incident in the previous ten years
• 365 days for test refusal convictions

Facing License Suspension – What Next?

Keep in mind that, regardless of the level of suspension you are looking at, you only have 30 days to challenge a license suspension which means the sooner you act, the better your chances will be.

Don’t let a traffic violation affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights, your driving record and reputation as well as your personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

If you have been arrested, accused or charged with a DWI in Minnesota, then you may have heard about the alcohol ignition interlock device. This is a new device that has come into play across the state of Minnesota in 2009. Prior to the introduction Minnesota was one of only five states that did not have this type of program for DUI offenders.

How the Alcohol Ignition Interlock Device Works

The alcohol ignition interlock is a small device about the size of a calculator that is connected to the ignition system in your car. Before your car will start, the offender will need to blow into a tube that tests the level of alcohol. If the driver blows below the legal limit (or, in some instances, at zero), then the car will start.
However, the alcohol ignition interlock device will also require the driver to blow into the machine at 15 minute intervals on the road. This is to ensure that the driver is not tricking the system and letting someone else blow into the device. Some devices also have a video camera attached to the system. While the car will not suddenly stop on the highway if you do blow over, it will record the results and inform the probate officers and court of the offense.

Alcohol Ignition Interlock Costs and Concerns – Minneapolis DUI Lawyer

While the alcohol ignition interlock system is helping DWI offenders remain safe on the road, it is also quite expensive. The device costs around $90 to install and anywhere from $60 to $125 per month to maintain. Furthermore, it is also extremely inconvenient and many drivers find it invasive and intrusive.
You may be looking at the alcohol ignition interlock device if you have been convicted of any DUI offense on the road. Some judges will offer this device as a way to keep drivers on the road after they have served their sentence. First DUI offenders may still need to install the alcohol ignition interlock device before being allowed behind the wheel again.

If you are concerned about your legal rights when it comes to the installation of the alcohol ignition interlock system, then your best bet is to contact an experienced Minnesota DWI lawyer. A DUI lawyer will be able to outline the program details and defend your legal rights on and off the road.

Minnesota Criminal Lawyer

Don’t let DUI charge affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights, your driving record and reputation as well as your personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka DWI lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

If you are pulled over for suspected DUI, then you are most likely going to be nervous. You may feel like you are guilty before the police officer has even said anything. If you are asked to perform a field sobriety test or breathalyzer, you may not know if this is a good idea. Should you do what the officer says? Should you refuse the test? It is up to you what you choose to do. However, there are a few things you should consider if pulled over on a suspected DWI charge:

Minneapolis Implied Consent Law

When you get your driver’s license, you are agreeing to remain safe and responsible on the road. You are also agreeing to adhere to any testing a police officer may request if pulled over. This is known as the implied consent law. Although you can choose to withdrawal your consent at the time of the incident, it is a crime to do so, and, if convicted of a DUI, you could be facing even stricter penalties.
There are a number of different ways a police officer can test your level of intoxication. There are three standardized field sobriety tests used on the roads of Minnesota including:

• The Horizontal Gaze – an officer observes the driver’s eye movements when asked to follow an object from side to side
• The Walk and Turn – an officer observes the driver’s ability to balance while walking and turning
• The One Leg Stand – an officer observes the driver’s ability to balance while standing on one leg.

However, there are also a number of other tests the police officer may ask you to do including reciting the alphabet or walking backwards. You may also be asked to take some other tests including:

• A breathalyzer
• A urine sample
• A blood test

All of these tests are a more accurate indication of your blood alcohol content. While the field sobriety tests are considered valid, they are also objective, based on the decision of the arresting officer. Keep in mind that you could still be arrested for a DUI without taking any of the field sobriety or breathalyzer tests.

Test Refusal Consequences

If you do refuse to take any of the required tests and are later convicted of a DUI, you are looking at an automatic gross misdemeanor offense which includes a jail sentence of one year and a fine of up to $3,000. You could also lose your license for a period of one year.

Pulled over for Suspicion DWI? Contact a Minnesota DUI Lawyer

If you are pulled over for a DWI, your best bet is to remain calm and polite to the officer. It is also a good idea to ask to speak to a lawyer before deciding whether or not to take the tests. This is your legal right and you will not be penalized for asking for this right.

Minnesota Criminal Lawyer

Don’t let DUI charge affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights, your driving record and reputation as well as your personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

An Order for Protection is a type of restraining order normally filed in conjunction with an assault or domestic assault allegation. You will be required to stay a certain distance away from the alleged victim at all times. An Order for Protection is usually filed before you have been convicted of any assault charge which can be frustrating and aggravating to say the least. Because an Order for Protection automatically assumes you are guilty of the assault crime, many people are unprepared to handle this type of allegation. There are ways around an Order for Protection, especially one filed under unjust circumstances.

How an Order for Protection Can Impact You

An Order for Protection will ensure that you stay a certain distance away from the alleged victim. It is meant to protect the victim from further attacks while a court date approaches. What this means is that if the victim is your spouse, common law partner or mother of your child, you could also be forced to stay away from your home as well as your children. This can be frustrating to say the least. An Order for Protection can also negatively impact your ability to gain custody of your children if a divorce is pending which is why it is so important to clear your name of any assault charges and Order for Protection lawsuits.

Order for Protection Tips

When it comes to handling an Order for Protection, it is best to sit back quietly and allow a lawyer to handle the legal confusion. Of course, this is easier said than done. Below are some tips to dealing with an unjust Order for Protection:

• Whatever you do, do not violate the Order for Protection, regardless of how unfair it is. If you violate an Order for Protection, you could be looking at another criminal conviction and court date on top of the assault accusation.
• Surround yourself with family and friends and try not to think about how the restraining order is affecting your life. If you are unable to go home or see your children, try to focus on other aspects of your life instead. Spend time with your parents or siblings. Take some ‘down time’ to relax for the upcoming events.
• Do not do anything that will provoke your anger and emotions such as drinking, taking drugs or going to a bar. You want to avoid the public eye and any triggers that may raise your anger levels. You also want to remain in a clear state of mind. Mixing alcohol with an Order for Protection will only end poorly for you.
Your best defense against any Order for Protection case is to contact a qualified attorney right away. The sooner you contact a lawyer, the sooner the Order for Protection case will be analyzed and hopefully dropped.

Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney

Don’t let an Order for Protection and domestic assault allegation affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights and reputation as well as your personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Anyone who has a criminal conviction will want to look into the matter of expungement. After all, if you can erase a criminal conviction from your permanent record, why wouldn’t you? The last thing you want weighing you down is your criminal history. Unfortunately expungement is not a simple process. Furthermore, not everyone can apply for an expungement of their criminal offense. However, below are some steps to determine if you should apply for expungement and what to expect from the process:

Is Expungement Right for You?

Expungement is the removal of any criminal records or information in court files, computers and other depositories. You may want to consider an expungement for certain convictions in the past as well as any arrests that have resulted in a non-guilty sentence. Your ability to qualify for expungement will depend on a number of factors related to your criminal conviction including the following:

• How long has elapsed since the offense? It is a good idea to wait at least two years before you petition to expunge a misdemeanor offense and longer for a felony offense. If it has been more than five years since your arrest, then expungement might be right for you.
• What type of offense have you committed? Some criminal acts cannot be expunged from your record, regardless of how much time as elapsed. This includes any criminal sexual conduct or sex crimes acts as well as any DUI offense. Felony offenses may be harder to expunge because of the seriousness of them. In general, misdemeanor offenses have a much higher chance of being taken off the public records.
• What have you done to prove you have changed? If you have remained out of trouble since your arrest, then you can apply for expungement.

Furthermore, if you have obeyed the law as well as taken the measures to rehabilitate yourself and rejoin society, then you also have a good chance of being accepted for the expungement process. This may include participating in counseling, anger management training, community service and other rehabilitative measures. Your lifestyle, including your job and your accommodation, will also impact your likelihood of having a crime expunged.

Understanding the Expungement Process

Although the process of expungement deals with criminal records, they are considered civil lawsuits. While some expungement hearings are handled by the Minnesota Supreme Court, others are looked after in the Minnesota Court of Appeals. You can expect any expungement process to take around four months to complete. The steps to expungement include the following:

• You will need to file a formal petition for expungement
• Sixty days after the petition have been filed, you will attend a court hearing and submit an oral and written statement to the court discussing your reasons for seeking expungement
• The court will make a decision based on the evidence and the documentation you have submitted

Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney

It is important that you seek legal representation when contemplating expungement for your past. Our attorneys will assess your case, determine if expungement is a viable option and, if so, help you with the documentation needed to succeed in having your crime expunged. If you are considering expungement, then contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

A sex crime conviction can feel like a ton of bricks have literally crushed you. Not only could you be facing serious fines as well as a long prison sentence, but there is also a negative social stigma that surrounds any sex crime accusation. You may find that colleagues, neighbors and members of the community all of a sudden do not want to know you. Your personal and professional life could suffer and this is all before you have even gone to court. As soon as you are accused or arrested under a sex crime allegation, you need to contact a lawyer. The quicker you get legal representation, the better off you will be before, during and after the trial.

Sex Crime Arrests

There are a number of crimes that constitute as a ‘sex crime’ including felony offenses such as criminal sexual conduct, rape, sexual assault and incest. Misdemeanor sex crimes include prostitution, indecent exposure and fifth degree criminal sexual conduct. Internet sexual acts, such as distribution of child pornography, are also classified as sex crimes. If you are convicted of any of these arrests you could be looking at fines, jail time and rehabilitation as well as a permanent criminal conviction and registration as a sex offender.

Facing Sex Crimes Tips

There is no right or wrong way to handle a sex crime accusation. However, below are a few tips to get you through the upcoming events as best as possible:

• Surround yourself with supportive family and friends and stay away from those who are not supportive. When you are looking at this serious conviction, your friendships will be put on the line. You may find that some of your closest friends do not want to know you anymore. Be prepared to lose relationships. Your true friends and family will stick with you and this is what matters the most.
• Avoid the limelight as much as possible. If your sex crime case is a high profile case, you may be getting unwanted media attention. You do not have to hole yourself up like a hermit but you might want to avoid public events and high-traffic areas for the time being.
• Avoid triggers than can make the situation even worse including drugs and alcohol. You may want to drown your sorrows in alcohol or drugs but this is not a good idea. You will end up making the situation even worse and doing something you could regret down the road.
• Try to live life as normally as possible. In some instances, you may want to continue working. In other instances, you may find it better to take a couple of weeks off to prepare for the case and spend some quality time with loved ones. It is up to you. Do things you enjoy doing to keep your mind off the case – go for a run, rent your favorite DVD’s, cook your favorite meals, go to the beach and try to stay calm and relaxed.

Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney

Don’t let a sex crime arrest affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights and reputation as well as your personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Being pulled over on any road is scary enough without the added fear that you will be caught for underage drinking and driving. Under the state of Minnesota, anyone under the age of 21 caught with even a drop of alcohol in their system if behind the wheel of a vehicle can be arrested for a DUI. It does not matter if you have only had a sip or a beer at a party. There is no .08 blood alcohol content limit for those under the age of 21.

DUI Laws and Penalties

Driving a vehicle on the roads while drunk (or after you have been drinking) is bad enough. However, keep in mind that the drinking and driving laws do not only apply to the highways and roads. You can also be caught for underage drinking and driving if you are operating any type of recreational vehicle with alcohol in your system. This includes a boat, a jet ski, a golf cart, a snowmobile and an ATV. It might sound like a good idea to mix a couple of cocktails with a day out on the lake but this could result in a loss of license among other things.

If you have been caught for underage drinking and driving, you can expect a license suspension. You may also need to attend driver’s education and rehabilitation to ensure that you are not a risk on the road again. In some instances you may need to pay a fine. If the drinking and driving arrest was on top of additional arrests, such as in conjunction with a car accident, obstruction of justice, resisting arrest, speeding or open bottle law, then you could also be looking at community service or time in a detention facility.

Legal Advice for Underage Arrests

If you are pulled over and you have been drinking, you have the legal right to refuse a breathalyzer test. However, if you do refuse and are later found guilty of underage drinking and driving, you could be facing even more severe punishments. The best thing to do is you are pulled over for underage drinking and driving is to cooperate with the police officer. Remain polite and as calm as possible. You do not have to admit to anything or say anything about what has happened. In fact, it is best to keep quiet. You have the right to remain silent and this is one right you should always take. It can be very intimidating facing a police officer and you might accidently say something that could affect your case down the road. Contact an attorney right away to discuss your legal options and how you should proceed.

Minnesota Defense Lawyer

If you are facing an underage drinking and driving conviction, or if you have been arrested for underage drinking and driving, you will need legal representation. A drinking and driving conviction will remain on your record forever, negatively affecting your life down the road.
Don’t let an underage drinking and driving arrest affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights and reputation as well as your personal and pending professional life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

The internet is one of the most powerful and important advances of the 21st century allowing us to communicate in a way we never have before. However, the internet and widespread use of computers also brings plenty of disadvantages and opportunities for crimes including fraud, theft and criminal sexual conduct. If you are facing any computer or internet crime, you could be looking at a federal conviction and a World Wide Web of trouble.

Computer Crime Charges

There are a number of internet crimes out there, most of which involve white collar crimes or criminal sexual conduct. This can include computer fraud, computer hacking and identity theft as well as credit card fraud and credit card theft done through a computer. Internet phishing and promoting a computer virus are also considered serious offenses. Any unlawful internet business or internet schemes can also land you in prison. Criminal sexual conduct internet crimes include possession or distribution of child pornography and internet solicitation of a minor.

Internet crimes are usually considered federal crimes which means, if you are arrested for any cyber crime, you could be tried in a federal court and sentenced under the federal system. This means you could be facing severe fines and long term prison sentences in a federal institute. It also means, if convicted, you could lose a number of rights including your right to vote, your right to bear firearms and your right to have a passport. You may have trouble finding decent work with an internet crime conviction and, if you have committed an internet sex crime, such as distribution of child pornography, then you could also be registered as a sex offender.

Avoiding an Arrest

In many cases of computer and internet crime, you may be under investigation for several months before you are actually arrested. If you notice anything suspicious at work or with your computer, then it is a good idea to contact a lawyer just in case.
If you are accused of any computer crime, your personal computer may be taken off you. If you do try to delete any material or attempt to stop the search, you could also be facing an obstruction of justice accusation as well.

Defending Cyber Crime

There are a number of defense strategies one can take if under allegations of cyber crime. Because of the increasing computer crimes out there, the FBI is taking control with a number of monitoring devices. However, everyone can make mistakes, even the FBI and internal surveillance companies. You may not even realize that what you have done is a crime or the whole accusation could be one big misunderstanding. It is important to remain calm and in control if accused of any cyber crime.

Minnesota Defense Lawyer

Don’t let an accusation of internet or computer crime affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights and reputation as well as your personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Check forgery is a fraudulent act involving a check account. Check forgery will negatively impact a financial institute and thus, in most instances, is considered a federal offense. In some cases, check forgery will also affect a victim (if identity theft is used) as well as a business (if the check forgery is used in a business transaction). Regardless of the circumstances surrounding a check forgery accusation, it is important to understand what this means for your personal and professional life, your reputation and your future.

Instances of Check Forgery

Check forgery usually involves the following allegations:

• Forging signatures of checks. If you use someone else’s checkbook to pay for goods then you could be accused of check forgery. This is also considered identity theft and often happens in a business environment.
• Using dishonored checks. If the account has been made up or the account has been closed (and you are aware of this), then you could be under investigation for check forgery.
• Lack of funds – if you use a check from an account that does not have sufficient funds (and you are aware of this), then you could be accused of check forgery.
• Fraudulently ordering or producing checks. This is another form of identity theft that has serious repercussions.

Check Forgery Defense

• There are a number of defense tactics to take if facing a check fraud or check forgery accusation. Make sure you contact an experienced fraud lawyer to discuss your situation and determine which defense is the most appropriate. You may want to consider:
• Insanity or intoxication – the inability to distinguish right from wrong
• Post dated checks –a check with a date after the date on which the check was presented is considered a post-dated check and may not be prosecuted criminally. The post-dating of the check creates an extension of credit, even if only for a day, and converts the case to a bad debt situation rather than a check fraud case
• Unaware of the crime – a guilty sentences means that you were intentionally aware of the crime. You may be able to reduce your sentencing and possibly walk away with a not-guilty verdict by explaining that you were unaware that what you were doing was wrong.
• If the crime was not premeditated but all just a big mistake you could also walk away with a reduced sentence.

Check forgery is considered a federal offense as, in most instances, the financial institute that suffers spans beyond state lines. What this means is, if convicted of check forgery, you will be facing the federal sentencing system which includes hefty fines, loss of certain rights and prison time in a federal institute.

Minnesota Criminal Defense

Don’t let an accusation of check forgery affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights and reputation as well as your personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Robbery arrests occur if someone takes personal property from another and uses force or threat of danger to do so. But what is armed robbery exactly? Armed robbery simply refers to a robbery offense involving use of a weapon. Most robbery allegations are armed robbery or aggravated robbery offenses, which involves the use of a deadly weapon. Robbery accusations often go hand in hand with additional crimes such as theft, burglary, assault or trespassing. This is not a crime that should be taken lightly.

Additional Robbery Charges

There are a number of different instances of robbery outside of armed robbery. Aggravated robbery, for example, involves using a deadly weapon or something that appears to be a deadly weapon while highway robbery takes place outside the home in a public area. Carjacking is another form of robbery which involves stealing a car from a victim by force.

If convicted of armed robbery, you could be facing up to ten years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000. For aggravated robbery, you could be sentenced with 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $35,000.

Instances of Armed and Aggravated Robbery

Armed robbery can happen anytime, anywhere. However, below are some of the common instances of armed and aggravated robbery:

• If you have broken into someone’s house, threatened them with a knife and stolen items from their jewelry box
• If you have entered a commercial residence, threatened the store worker with a gun and taken money from the cash register
• If you have threatened someone with a finger (concealed to look like a gun) at an ATM machine
• If you have threatened to hurt someone in a car if they do not get out of the vehicle

Armed Robbery Accusations

If you have been accused of armed robbery, then you will want to do everything in your power to clear your name. Why? Because an armed robbery conviction can negatively impact your entire life even after you have served your time. It is important to not only think about how this conviction will affect your present but also your future.

• robbery charges can make it impossible to find accommodation. Most landlords perform criminal background checks on possible tenants. It can be hard to explain an armed robbery offense and most landlords will not risk the safety of others and of their building
• robbery charges can also make it difficult to find decent work. Employers may classify you as a troublemaker and be wary of theft at the workplace, especially if the job requires interaction with money, customers or other valuable material
• robbery charges can negatively impact your ability to win additonal court cases, such as child custody
• robbery can affect to right to own firearms, to have a passport and, in some instances, to vote.

Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyer

Don’t let an accusation of armed robbery affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights and reputation as well as your personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Trespassing is a serious property crime that suggests you have entered someone else’s property without permission. Trespassing often goes hand in hand with burglary which means you have entered someone else’s property and stolen (or attempted to) steal something from them.
Trespassing crimes are often mistakes – you may have wandered the wrong way, you may have been put up to the intrusion by a friend or you may be chasing after a lost pet. If you are accused or arrested of trespassing, however, the police officer may not see it that way. You will need legal representation to defend you in court.

What Constitutes Trespassing?

Trespassing allegations may be laid in the following instances:

• If you allow a domestic animal under your control to go onto the land or another within a city. For example, if you let your dog go to the toilet on the neighbor’s lawn, you could be facing a trespassing misdemeanor conviction if that neighbor calls the police
• If you interfere with a sign or monument marked to designate property lines. It may seem funny to steal the cones from a highway construction site but this is a criminal offense
• If you trespass on the premises of another and refuse to depart
• If you enter or are found on cemetery property when a cemetery is closed.
• If you enter the dwelling or locked building of another without consent
• If you enter the property of another to take fruit or vegetables growing there without consent.
• If you return to the property of another after being told to leave with the intent to abuse or disturb.
• If you enter a locked or posted construction site without consent
• If you enter a mining site without consent. Not only is this a misdemeanor offense but also incredibly dangerous.
• Gross misdemeanor offenses such as when you trespass and refuse to leave a place providing emergency shelter service for battered women or transitional housing for battered women and their children

Trespassing Conviction and Penalties

Trespassing is a misdemeanor or a gross misdemeanor offense depending on the circumstances. A misdemeanor trespassing conviction comes with up to $1,000 fine and 90 days in prison. A gross misdemeanor trespassing offense comes with up to $3,000 in fines and a one year prison sentence.

Juvenile Law and Trespassing

Trespassing is often a crime committed by those under the age of 18. If you are a juvenile and found guilty of trespassing, you will still be punished with a number of penalties. You may be looking at community service, house arrest, time in a detention facility, restitution to the victim or probation. What this means is that you may be required to work for free at the farm where you were caught stealing fruit or that you may need to spend your free time scrubbing toilets at the community center you broke into after hours.

Don’t let an accusation of trespassing affect the rest of your life. Protect your rights and reputation as well as your personal and professional life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

If you or your child is under the age of 18 and has been arrested, then they may need to face juvenile court. This can be a very daunting time for both the parents and the accused. However, it may be easier to face if you know what you can expect.

What Can I Expect?

First of all, most juvenile arrests are handled through a juvenile court system. This is similar to the Minnesota court system; however, instead of just focusing on punishment, juvenile courts will focus on rehabilitation rather than just simply punishing the criminal. What this means is that you may not be facing jail time. You may instead be facing rehabilitative measures such as:

• Community service – you may need to complete a certain amount of community service. This might include garbage duty, janitorial work at community centers and various other community projects.
• House arrest – house arrest usually entails having a monitored device around your ankle that will track where you are. If you go outside your boundaries (usually your home), then an alarm will sound notifying the police or your probation officer.
• Therapy or counseling, such as anger management – this may be offered if you are facing assault or disorderly conduct charges.
• Restitution to the victim – if you have caused damage to someone’s property or stolen money from someone, you may have to pay them back.
• Driver’s education – you may be issued with driver’s education courses if you have committed a traffic violation such as speeding, reckless driving or underage drinking and driving. You will also most likely lose your license.
• Fines – in some instances, you pay be asked to pay a fine. However, this is not always the case as often a fine will impact the parents rather than the child.
• Detention Facility care – in some instances, instead of going to prison, you may need to spend some time in a detention facility. The purpose of these facilities is to rehabilitate the criminal so that this behavior does not continue into his adult life.

Under the Age of 10 and Arrested?

For those under the age of 10 who have been caught committing a crime, your case will be handled though CHIPS – the Child in Need of Protection Services. This is a special branch of juvenile law dedicated to ensuring the child is safe. Often CHIPS cases will assess the parents as well as the child who has been arrested.

How to Handle a Juvenile Arrest

It is best to resume life as normally as possible if you have been accused of a juvenile crime. This most likely means attending school and avoiding the subject. Friends may be interested to know what has happened but keep in mind that this is no one’s business but your own. Furthermore, keep in mind that you are innocent until proven guilty.

Minneapolis Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you or someone you love is facing a juvenile conviction, make sure you get the legal help you need to walk away from this conviction. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

There are many instances that classify as employee theft that most of us do not think twice about. For example, taking a camera from the lost and found at your place of employment, grabbing a chocolate bar from the shelf on your lunch break and not paying for it or taking a pen home from work with you all constitute employee theft. Sure, you are not stealing hundreds of thousands of dollars, but, in all three of these instances, you are stealing. In most instances, these minor crimes will go unnoticed and, if you are caught in the act, you will most likely get a slap on the wrist or a warning from your boss. However, there are acts of employee theft that will be referred to the police and you could end up with a theft conviction because of it.

Employee Theft Cases

Below are some cases of employee theft that could end up costing you a lot more than just your job:

• Voiding receipts and pocketing the money. This happens in a lot of stores where you will work a cash register.
• Forgetting to scan items and then pocketing the money. Again, this often occurs in stores where you will need to scan an item at a cash register such as in a clothing store or a grocery store. The thief will still collect the money from the customer but then put the money in their pocket instead of in the register. There is no recollection of the transaction and thus the cash register is not overdrawn.
• Stealing directly out of the cash register
• Stealing items from the store room or back room. Many places of employment will have extra stock in the back. They may think their boss will not notice the missing items right away.
• Stealing items off the shelf.
• Switching price tags on an item to make it cheaper
• Stealing office equipment. This can include something as small as a pen to something as large as a computer.
• Accounting schemes, such as creating fake employees to pocket the money. Accounting schemes are often considered ‘white collar crimes’ and usually constitute a felony arrest.

Facing Employee Theft Charges

Employee theft generally falls into two categories – petty theft and grand theft. Petty theft means that the amount stolen is under $400 while grand theft refers to anything with a monetary value of over $400. Some employee theft instances will happen over a long period of time. For example, stealing $20 here and there over three years can add up to a lot of money. Employee theft convictions can range from misdemeanor to felony offenses depending on the situation.

Minneapolis Criminal Defense

Don’t let an accusation of employee theft affect the rest of your life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Many women have encountered a snide comment or two about their choice in attire for a night out with friends. Perhaps you have heard someone say “she looks like a hooker in that skirt” or perhaps you have chosen a dress that is just a little too tight, boots that are just a tad too high or a top that is just a smidge too low. However, all in all, choosing an outfit that is not deemed ‘appropriate’ will not harm anyone. You are not breaking the law by dressing a certain way, unless you are mistaken for a prostitute.

A Case of Mistaken Identity

You may be surprised how often this can happen, especially after a late night out. If you are walking home from a club dressed to kill and a police officer arrests you under suspicion of prostitution, then it is imperative that you contact an attorney right away. The last thing you need is an arrest like this on your permanent record.

A police officer can arrest you if they believe that you are loitering with the intent to prostitute. They may ask to check your bags and if they find sexual paraphernalia (such as condoms and sex toys), they could arrest you. They may find an address book with several male contact numbers and assume the worst. Of course, there are many instances where you may be carrying these items – wearing a short skirt and carrying condoms in your bag does not mean you are loitering with the intent to prostitute – you need to fight back against these allegations. However, if you are approached by a police officer, remain polite and try to explain the situation. If they refuse to believe you, let them do their job and contact a lawyer right away for help. People make mistakes, even police officers. However, to ensure their mistake doesn’t turn into your nightmare, you need to stay in control.

Prostitution and Soliciting

In most instances, prostitution is considered a misdemeanor offense which means you could face up to $1,000 in fines and/or 30 days in prison. However, the social stigma of this arrest can cost you a lot more than this.

Other sexual criminal activity, such as pandering, soliciting and indecent exposure can also end up on your permanent record. Police officers are cracking down on criminal sexual activity and many police officers are going under cover as potential ‘clients.’ Furthermore, female police officers may also pose as prostitutes in an attempt to catch the clients. If you are caught in the act by an undercover police officer then there are still options for defense.

Minneapolis Prostitution Lawyer

Prostitution is not a joking matter. A conviction like this could negatively impact your ability to find decent work in the future. Don’t let something like this affect the rest of your life. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

After a night out at the bar or during a college fraternity party it can be quite easy for things to get out of control. What may seem like a good idea at the time (streaking anyone?) may turn into a nightmare down the road, especially if you are caught by the wrong people. Not only could you face shame and embarrassment, but you may also be arrested. Furthermore, if your harmless fun turns violent, then you could also be facing serious criminal charges.
One of the criminal convictions you could face is disorderly conduct.

What Constitutes Disorderly Conduct?

You could be arrested for disorderly conduct if you are seen to be disturbing the peace. In most instances, a disorderly conduct arrest will be made in a public area, such as in a park, a pub or on the street. Furthermore in most instances, a disorderly conduct arrest will follow a night of drinking. Disorderly conduct includes indecent exposure (such as streaking or having sex in a public place), brawling or fighting or displayed offensive, obscene, abusive or boisterous conduct in a public place.

Doing burnouts in the parking lot at 3:00 am may seem harmless but, it could constitute as disorderly conduct, especially if the neighbors complain. Attending a rowdy party and singing at the top of your lungs can also be considered disorderly conduct. Having a loud fight with your girlfriend outside the bar can also be considered disorderly conduct.

Disorderly Conduct and Assault

In some instances, a disorderly conduct could only be the beginning of your worries. If you have been arrested for brawling or fighting, then you could also be facing an assault charge. Disorderly conduct is usually considered a misdemeanor which means you could be facing $1,000 in fines and/or 30 days in prison, at the very worst. However, if you add an assault charge to the mixture, you could be facing a lot harsher consequences. In many instances, an assault conviction is considered a felony which means you could be spending several years behind bars.

How to Avoid an Arrest

When you are out in public, it is best to keep control of your emotions as best as possible, especially after a few drinks. If you are at a party where the police are involved, remain polite or stay away. Don’t try to be the hero and step into a situation to defend the home owner or try to put in your two cents, especially if you are intoxicated. You may be arrested and might need to spend the night at the station.

Furthermore, no matter how angry you are or how much someone provokes you, it is always best to walk away. You may think that you are taking the coward’s way out or that you need to defend your honor but there is nothing honorable about a criminal conviction.

Minnesota Disorderly Conduct Lawyer

If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

There are a number of traffic violations that come down to he-said-she-said. If you want to dispute a ticket or fine that will inevitably cost you down the road, then it is completely possible. In many instances, a traffic violation can result in a license suspension or revocation. Without a license, it can be hard to live a productive life.

You will need to make alternative arrangements for driving to work, driving the kids to school and driving to the mall to get the weekly shopping done – this can not only be inconvenient but can also end up costing you time and money. Just because you were targeted for a traffic violation fine or arrest does not mean you are automatically guilty of the crime. There are many instances where a traffic violation is unjustly issued and you just happen to be in the wrong car at the wrong time.

Why Was I Targeted?

There are many instances where you will be a target for police officers on the road. If you happen to drive a speedster or expensive vehicle, then you could be a victim of unjust traffic fines. Some vehicles just scream out “pull me over” even if you have done nothing wrong.

Furthermore, if you are a new driver, you may feel like you are being targeted on the road. Statistically speaking, young drivers will often speed, disobey traffic rules and cause reckless accidents and thus, police officers are constantly on alert for young drivers.

There are some instances where a police officer will simply be having a bad day and you may be the victim of his/her anger. You may be pulled over for no reason whatsoever. In most cases a police officer will ask to see your driver’s license and proof of insurance and then ask you if you know why you have been pulled over. This is a trap to get you to admit you were at fault on the road. This admittance can be used against you if you decide to dispute the fine or other penalty. Even if you were over the speed limit or missed a stop sign, do not admit it. Instead, remain quiet and let the police officer do his job. You will have your time to speak down the road.

Tips to Avoiding Traffic Violation Arrests

• Be polite – no matter what happens, always remain polite and respectful, even if the police officer is not. A police officer may be completely out of line but you will have your chance to defend your rights when a lawyer is present.
• Stay Quiet – do not admit to anything. Claims like “I only had one drink” or “I was only 10 miles above the limit” are guilty sentences that could end up costing you a lot down the road. You have the right to remain silent, so use it.

St. Paul Traffic Violation Attorney

If you have already been arrested or accused of a traffic violation, all is not lost. There are still ways to fight against any injustice served to you while on the road. If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

If you have been served with an order for protection, then you are most likely confused about what this means. Does an order for protection mean you are going to prison? Will an order for protection show up on your permanent criminal record? Is there any way to fight back against an order for protection?

Understanding an Order for Protection

An order for protection does not mean you are going to prison, nor will it show up on your permanent criminal record. Furthermore, there is a way to fight back against an order for protection and win.
An order for protection is essentially a restraining order filed by the alleged victim of domestic abuse. If you have been accused of any instance of domestic abuse, then the victim can file an order for protection to ensure that you remain a certain distance away from him/her at all times. This order for protection acts as a security blanket until the case is assessed by a judge.

Maintaining your Cool

In many instances an order for protection will be filed under false accusations. Many ex spouses will file an order for protection as a way to gain access to children during a custody battle. Do not fall into this trap.
It is important to always remember that an order for protection is not a guilty sentence, even though it may feel like this at the time. There are ways around an order for protection but it is important that you remain patient and in control during the process. Failure of obey by an order for protection could end up costing you even more, especially if you are found guilty of domestic assault. Violating an order for protection, regardless of the outcome of the domestic assault accusation, can result in a misdemeanor offense which can include 90 days in prison and/or a $1,000 fine.

How Can an Order for Protection Impact My Life?

• Loss of rights to your children – if you are facing a domestic violence assault with a spouse or someone you live with, then you will most need to stay away from them at all times. This means that if your children are with the alleged victim, then you will also need to stay away from them. This can be a difficult situation and most defendants will feel angry, betrayed and frustrated by this. It is important to keep your cool and talk to an attorney about what you can do. It is possible to get visitation rights with your children while the order for protection is being assessed.
• Loss of rights to your home – If issued with an order for protection, you will need to stay a certain distance away from the alleged victim at all times. This means that if you live with that person, you will most likely need to find alternative accommodation for the time being.

Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyers

If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Under the state of Minnesota, a misdemeanor offense is punishment by up to 90 days in prison and a fine of $1,000. Misdemeanor offenses are often considered petty offenses and many people will assume that a misdemeanor crime is nothing to worry about. Unfortunately this is not the case. A misdemeanor offense will still show up on your criminal record which can negatively impact your life down the road.

Minnesota Misdemeanor Offenses

There are a number of crimes that are considered misdemeanors. Furthermore, many of these offenses are committed by those under the age of 21. This includes driving offenses such as underage drinking and driving, failure to stop at a stop sign and reckless driving. It also includes non-driving offenses such as some shoplifting crimes, fifth degree DWI offenses and violating an order for protection.

The Misdemeanor Court Process

If you have been accused of a misdemeanor offense, it is important that you understand the consequences of this arrest. The first thing you should do is contact an attorney to defend your rights in a court of law. Many people will try to speak for themselves or simply hope that the judge will understand that it was all a simple mistake – this is rarely the case.

You will need to attend a court date which will be decided by the judge. This first court appearance is called an arraignment. You will want to put your best foot forward so avoid showing up in torn jeans and a t-shirt from the dirty laundry pile. You will be told of your rights and you will enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
Pleading guilty – if you plead guilty at the arraignment, then the judge will give you your penalty right away. This may include a fine, jail time, community service or several other options. In some instances, a guilty plea may be your best option but it is important to understand what this can mean for your future.
Pleading not guilty – if you plead not guilty, then your case will go to a pre-trial hearing in which the prosecutor and the attorney will attempt to reach a resolution. If this is not possible, then you will attend a jury trial down the road in which your case will be heard by a judge as well as a jury of six people. After hearing all the evidence, they will come to a conclusion about your misdemeanor arrest.

Misdemeanor Offenses and Juveniles

If you are a juvenile and have been accused of a misdemeanor crime, then your case will most likely be handled in the juvenile courts. You can expect a similar system to the traditional courts but rather than simply focusing on your punishment, you will most likely also need to undergo rehabilitation, counseling or community service in order to demonstrate you are committed to changing your ways and understand your error.

Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyers

If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact Anoka criminal lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.

Shoplifting can land you in a lot of trouble if you are caught. And, because of the growing instances of shoplifting across Minnesota, most large and small retail stores are cracking down on theft instances by installing state of the art equipment. Cameras, mirrors and secret shoppers are all defense tactics being used in stores across Minnesota. In some instances, a shop will hire security guards to monitor the shoppers at all times. What all this means is that you may find yourself being watched and targeted while doing the weekly shop or window shopping. It also means you may be accused of shoplifting if you make any suspicious movements.

Petty Theft and Grand Theft

Shoplifting crimes fall under two different categories – petty theft and grant theft. You could be facing petty theft charges, which is usually considered a misdemeanor offense, if you have stolen goods valued at under $400. If the value of goods is higher than $400, then you will be facing grand theft charges which are considered much more serious. In some instances, a shoplifting grand theft offense can be considered a felony.

Shoplifting and Employee Theft

It is also important to note that many stores are going behind the scenes to catch employee shoplifters as well. Employee theft is a growing concern with all businesses which is why you also need to be aware of what constitutes employee shoplifting thefts, especially if you work in the retail environment. If you switch the tags on items, take something from the lost and found, take something from the stock room, or use something in the store without paying for it, then you could be accused of shoplifting or employee theft. If you are accused of shoplifting, you will most likely lose your job and you may be facing a criminal conviction as well.

Cracking Down on Shoplifting

Because of the widespread use of security and monitoring devices, there are more cases where an innocent shopper is accused of shoplifting. Even a shoplifting accusation can negatively impact your life. You will most likely feel incredibly embarrassed and angry, especially if the arrest is a big mistake or misunderstanding. If you are arrested in the store, you will most likely face stares and whispers from your friends, neighbors and other shoppers in the store. It can be hard to explain what has happened which is why it is best to keep quiet and let an experienced shoplifting attorney do the talking for you. The best way to avoid a criminal conviction is to remain as calm as possible and keep your mouth shut until a lawyer is present.

Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyers

If you or someone you love is facing a criminal conviction, then now is the time to step up and fight back. Contact St Paul criminal defense lawyer Michael Brandt at 763-421-6366 for a free, no obligation consultation.