The state of Minnesota defines crimes that may occur in their jurisdiction under state code 609.02. As outlined a felony consists of any charge that could hold a penalty of over one year in prison. Misdemeanors have two subcategories. Initially, they are described as crimes, which hold penalties that equate up to ninety days in county lock-up and fines that do not exceed $1,000. Gross misdemeanors are crimes in which the fines could value no more than $3,000; petty misdemeanors incur a fine that is less than $300. Anyone facing any crime in the state are advised to acquire a Criminal Lawyer in Rochester MN to represent them.
Bodily Harm
Crimes in which bodily harm was sustained fall under one of two subcategories beyond the basic understanding of the offense which is that the accused inflicted a form of illness, injury, or potential impairment by their own accord. The crime is further explained in the subcategories. Substantial bodily harm is defined as injuries that cause damage to the victim’s organs or cause broken bones.
Great bodily harm implies that the accused intended to or did cause permanent disfigurement. The penalties for these crimes are an assigned sentence in county lock-up, anger management classes, fines, and possible electronic monitoring based on the severity of the crime. The charge is, typically, applied in conjunction with assault, which is defined as a willful intent to incite fear or to inflict damage. The individual will require a Criminal Lawyer in Rochester MN to represent him or her unless the accused chooses to plead guilty and receive an immediate sentence.
Domestic Violence
Minnesota Statues define multiple domestic violence-related crimes. Among them are assault, criminal sexual assault, and female genital mutilation. Victims of domestic violence are often advised to acquire a protection order through a Criminal Lawyer in Rochester MN or presiding judge.
The order defines stipulations addressed to the offender, and the penalties assigned for violations. The initial penalty for a violation is thirty days in county lock-up. If the order stipulates that the offender is not permitted to visit any location in which the victim may reside or travel and violates this provision, law enforcement may arrest the individual without a warrant. Alternately, if the individual is falsely accused he or she may acquire a Criminal Lawyer in Rochester MN to plead their case. The Anderson Law Firm provides criminal defense in Monroe County.