Minnesota Traffic Stops - (Explained)

Late last year, MPR reported that Minnesota Lynx player Seimone Augustus was stopped for having an air freshener hanging from her rear-view mirror.

Now, technically, this is against the law. And as a result, the police can conduct a stop for any violation of the traffic laws, "however insignificant."State v. George, 557 N.W.2d 575, 578 (Minn. 1997).

As a practical matter, the police often use minor technical violations as a reason to stop a person in the hopes of getting information or evidence relating to a more serious matter.

As a Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney, I can tell you that tiny infractions like this turn out to be BIG problems.  Here are some (IMHO) helpful suggestions if you're stopped by law enforcement:

1. Be polite and respectful;
2. Do provide your identification and proof of insurance, if asked; and
3. Understand that you do not have to answer incriminating questions or make statements admitting that you broke the law.

If you have been stopped and issued a citation or charged with a crime, please contact the Rolloff Law Office so we can discuss how we can help.  Call today: (612) 234-1165.