Sibley County Criminal Defense Lawyer

Facing criminal charges is a serious issue that can affect every aspect of your life, and they are not to be taken lightly. We understand the gravity of a criminal charge, and our legal team may be able to help you fight against and reduce the damage criminal charges could have on your life.

At Knutson + Casey, we have helped thousands of clients in the Southern Minnesota area, including Sibley County, with our big firm power and small firm approach. We realize the repercussions of criminal charges, and we have over 30 years of experience in criminal defense under our belt. If you have been criminally charged or questioned by the police, we encourage you to contact one of our knowledgeable lawyers to assist you in the next steps.

How Does Minnesota Classify Criminal Charges?

If you have been accused of or charged with a crime, you may concern yourself with Minnesota’s different levels of criminal offenses. The state defines three levels of criminal infractions and one non-criminal level, which include the following:

• Petty misdemeanor: A petty misdemeanor is the lowest level offense in the Minnesota court system. They are only punishable by a fine of up to $300, and they do not result in jail or prison time, making it a non-criminal charge. 
• Misdemeanor offense: This is the lowest level criminal offense in Minnesota, which may result in a fine of up to $1,000, up to 90 days in jail or a workhouse, and restitution payment.
• Gross misdemeanor: A gross misdemeanor is a mid-level criminal offense. This charge is punishable by a maximum $3,000 fine, one year in jail or a workhouse, and restitution payment, like a misdemeanor or felony charge. 
• Felony: This is the highest level of criminal offense in Minnesota court. This charge may result in one or more years in state prison and fines over $3,000, but a criminal defense lawyer could potentially get those fines and prison time reduced.

While the levels of criminal infractions have different degrees of possible punishment, we take all of them seriously. No matter what offense you are charged with, we may be able to help you get any fines or jail time reduced. In the absolute best case, we might get your charges dismissed all together.

What Does a Sibley County Criminal Charge Appeal Entail?

There are several aspects to consider when seeking an appeal for a criminal offense charge. For instance, every level of crime has a different statute of limitations, and the process of an appeal can be complex. Fortunately, we are here to help you every step of the way.

How Long Do You Have to Appeal Your Criminal Charge?

While you have the right to appeal any criminal charge against you, you must do so within the Minnesota Court Rules timelines. Moreover, different levels of charges have different statutes of limitations for filing an appeal. According to the Minnesota Court Rule 28, the statute of limitations for appealing a criminal charge are the following:

• Petty misdemeanor or misdemeanor: In Minnesota, a petty misdemeanor or misdemeanor charge must be appealed within 30 days.
• Gross misdemeanor or felony: The defendant has 90 days to appeal a gross misdemeanor or felony charge.
• Post-conviction relief petition: If you are denied a petition for post-conviction relief, you have 60 days to appeal it.

It’s important to keep these deadlines in mind when charged with a crime so you do not miss your opportunity to challenge any unfair decisions.

How Does a Criminal Appeal Work?

In addition to understanding the statute of limitations on criminal appeals, you should also know how an appeal functions in court. Notably, a criminal appeal is not a trial or retrial in Minnesota. Instead, it’s the chance to present any errors the court made in charging you with specific grounds. These grounds may include the following:

• Failure to read your full Miranda rights
• Legal error
• Juror misconduct
• Misapplication of the law
• Abuse of judicial discretion
• Ineffective counsel assistance
• Other violations of procedure

The facts of your case will determine the success of your appeal and the relief you receive from the judge. Our legal team may be able to help in sorting through your case and determining the best course of action for your specific situation.

How Can a Sibley County Criminal Defense Lawyer Help With Your Appeal?

When appealing a criminal charge, you might wonder if a criminal defense lawyer is necessary and how they can assist you in appealing and potentially reducing your punishments. Criminal Defense lawyers may help you with your case in the following ways:

• Analyzing evidence
• Interviewing witnesses
• Reviewing police reports
• Negotiating with prosecutors
• Looking for errors to cast doubt on your charges
• Reviewing witness testimony for contradictions

With a criminal defense lawyer, you could receive the one-on-one attention your case deserves to get you the best outcome possible.

Contact a Sibley County Criminal Defense Attorney at Knutson + Casey

After being charged with a crime, it’s important to begin the next legal steps right away. Fortunately, our knowledgeable lawyers at Knutson + Casey have helped thousands of clients take these steps through the complicated appeal process. Our team has the power of a big firm while also providing personalized focus for your case.

We understand the weight criminal charges carry. We may be able to provide the defense and guidance that you deserve with our innovative approach and award-winning services. To schedule a free consultation, call us at (507) 344-8888 or fill out our contact form.