Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney (Explained)

One question I get a lot ... from people who have never had to hire a lawyer specifically ...  is: "How can you defend criminals?"

True ... it is probably not a surprise that many (if not most) of the people I work with are "guilty" of the crimes they are accused of.  Or, at least, guilty of something.  Honestly, clients often come to me with little or no hope, wondering what (if anything) can be done.  

One of the first things that I tell them is that although they may be guilty of something, they may not be guilty of the specific crime they are charged with.  An experienced  Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney will make sure that the crime is properly charged, and that all the applicable rules and laws are followed throughout the case.  

In addition, a lawyer is often able to negotiate a favorable settlement, even in cases of clear guilt.  If a lawyer is able to reduce a presumed sentence by even a month or two, the fees paid will have been well worth it.  Lawyers are often able to negotiate reduced fines, reduced jail time and probation, etc.

Lawyer's Role

But what about the role of a lawyer as counselor?  Those accused of crimes are often in need of something more than merely being represented in court.  Sometimes the crime itself is more accurately described as the symptom of a more serious problem, such as drug addiction or mental health issues.  Criminals may do bad things, but I firmly believe they are not bad people.  Generally speaking, their biggest problem is what could be described as a “lack of foresight.”  A lawyer can help counsel their client, advising them to address any underlying issues.  This type of advice includes encouraging the client to seek treatment, find a job or start education, and to keep their life happy and stable.  Depending on the client, I sometimes encourage them to seek some spiritual guidance as well.

There is a balance that must be struck, however.  Those accused of crimes do not need another person to lecture them on their mistakes.  Most already acknowledge that they screwed up somehow, and most are ready to make a change.  It is the lawyer’s role to encourage them and assist them in making the changes they want to make.  One of the very best parts about being a criminal defense attorney is that I have the privilege of finding people at the time in their lives where they are most willing to make changes for the better.  Rather than focusing too much on the past, I believe it is best to focus on the future.  Despite the obstacles, the future for most criminals can be very bright, especially with the right encouragement and the right counsel.  

For help with a legal dilemma, please feel free to call The Rolloff Law Office for a FREE CONSULTATION: (612) 234-1165

Shoplifting Lawyer - Bloomington, MN

Shoplifting, sometimes referred to as theft, is one of the most commonly prosecuted crimes in the State of Minnesota. 

Regardless of the circumstances surrounding your case, or the case of your loved one, it is essential that you understand that these are real charges that pose serious criminal consequences --- speaking to an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney should be your first inclination. 

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Theft charges and the penalties associated with them can range depending on the circumstances involved and the accused's prior criminal history. In any case, if convicted, you can expect fines, possible terms of imprisonment and a criminal conviction on your record. 

A Minneapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer who Fights for You!

At the Rolloff Law Office, you can be confident that I apply every aspect of my experience as a former prosecutor --- as well as my dedication and legal knowledge --- when fighting for you and your future. 

Although shoplifting charges may seem an inconsequential or insignificant offense, these charges pose permanent criminal record issues that can negatively impact your future. 

If you or a loved one is facing allegations for shoplifting, I encourage you to schedule a free case evaluation to learn more about the ways in which I can aggressively and intelligently defend you. Call the Rolloff Law Office: (612) 234-1165

Theft & Shoplifting - Bloomington (Explained)

A Theft and/or Shoplifting charge in Minnesota can be one of the more severe and harshest crimes when compared to similar level criminal offenses.  Not only can a conviction stay with you for the rest of your life... it can have a major impact on your employment/job prospects, your housing options, and it can stain your name forever. For that reason, it is important to take the time to understand some of the basics surrounding Minnesota Theft crimes. As an experienced Minnesota Theft Crimes Defense Attorney, I have answers (and solutions) for the most commonly asked theft offense questions and cases.  Let me put my experience as a Prosecutor to work for you to help you with a basic understanding of Minnesota Theft offenses, as well as possible Theft defenses.

Just because you have been charged doe not mean you have to plead guilt and/or that you will be convicted.  

Call the Rolloff Law Office - today - to set up a FREE CONSULTATION: (612) 234-1165

Minnesota Shoplifting Attorney

If you have been arrested or cited for Shoplifting – you may think the situation is bad.  However, don’t just give up and assume there is nothing to do.  You’re facing a possible Theft charge that can have devastating effects on your future.

In a shoplifting case, like any other, an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney should look at a case from three ways:


1. Do you have any factual defenses?

Assuming everything in the police reports is true and accurate, does it all add up to the elements of the charge you’re accused of?  If you’re charged with theft, can they prove that you had the specific intent to steal?  How can they overcome whether or not it was an accident or mistake on your part?  I know these are subtle distinctions, but they are necessary elements of the crime the government must be able to prove beyond a reasonable doubt.

From there, we know that the reports are not always 100% accurate.  What in the report doesn't add up?  Are times, sequences or witness statements conflicting with each other?  Are there obvious errors in what happened that can be easily torn apart? When I consult with my clients, we review the facts of the case down to the smallest detail to see where the gaps in the case are.

2. Do you have any legal defenses?

Because most shoplifting cases involve a “private person’s arrest” (sometimes called a “citizen’s arrest”) by the store personnel, they are not necessarily under the same rules as the police.  Under the law of the State of Minnesota, they do have a right to detain a person they suspect of shoplifting.  If they search you, they don’t have to have a warrant or probable cause like the police do.  But that doesn't mean that they can do whatever they want.  The store loss prevention officers (a.k.a. security) must still act within the law and appropriately.  I have had cases where the loss prevention agents spied into dressing rooms – a clear violation of criminal law.  This can absolutely be used to our advantage in your defense.  Similarly, if the store security guards used excessive force, that can lead to a tremendous advantage to you either in negotiating your case or fighting it at trial.

From there, the actions by the police – Miranda warnings, searches or other police procedures can factor into how to defend your case.

3. If the facts and the law are against you, how can we best protect you?

Assuming the facts and the law are stacking up against you, what can be done?  Often, there can be alternative dispositions worked out, hopefully to avoid a conviction for a misdemeanor theft offense.  Diversion, deferred entry of judgment, reduction to a misdemeanor or non-theft related charge are all potential outcomes.  

Every case is unique, but by working with the Rolloff Law Office, well before your court date, there are things we can do to help put you in the best possible position for a good outcome in your case when we go to court.

Don’t wait until the last minute before you are due to appear in court.  Give call the Rolloff Law Office today to set up a free consultation: (612) 234-1165.