MN Marijuana in a Motor Vehicle Charge

As a Minnesota Traffic Ticket Attorney, I handle a lot of  moving violation cases.  What you need to know --- depending on the nature of the conviction that you could face ... not only might you have to pay a fine.  You could also lose your driver's license  One charge/conviction that leads to this outcome: a conviction for possession Marijuana in a Motor Vehicle.   

Under Minnesota Law, if you are convicted of possession of Marijuana in a Motor Vehicle, you will lose your driver's license and you could end up with a misdemeanor on your permanent driving/criminal record. 

This conviction, not only could effect your motor vehicle insurance rates --- it could also have an effect on future job seeking ambitions b/c prospective employers and insurance companies alike will be able to find the conviction with a simple background check.

Minn. Stat. §152.027, subd. 3 explains that:

A person is guilty of a misdemeanor if the person is the owner of a private motor vehicle, or is the driver of the motor vehicle if the owner is not present, and possesses on the person, or knowingly keeps or allows to be kept within the area of the vehicle normally occupied by the driver or passengers, more than 1.4 grams of marijuana. This area of the vehicle does not include the trunk of the motor vehicle if the vehicle is equipped with a trunk, or another area of the vehicle not normally occupied by the driver or passengers if the vehicle is not equipped with a trunk. A utility or glove compartment is deemed to be within the area occupied by the driver and passengers.

Even though a matter may seem insignificant, it is important to speak to an experienced attorney to find out any unforeseen collateral consequences that could stem from certain moving violations.  Call The Rolloff Law Office to set up a FREE CONSULTATION: (612) 234-1165

Keeping a Juvenile Crime Off of Your Child's Record

If you are a parent of a child who has been charged with a crime, an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney can help you through this (often) overwhelming and frightening experience. 

Apart from consequences that may result from a prosecution (including: court ordered community service or counseling, time in a juvenile detention facility, or time in an adult jail or prison,) parents often fear for the long-term problems that a criminal record can impose on their child. In particular, when it comes to furthering their education, the search for a job, and their later lives as adults and contributing members of our society.

What You Need to Know

How a juvenile crime will be treated on a person’s record will depend on the nature of their case.

Juvenile records: In most juvenile crime cases handled by a juvenile court in the State of Minnesota, cases are sealed from public view. There are some exceptions, including when an offense would be considered a felony if child was at least 16 years of age. Most of these juvenile offenders will be able to petition for an Expungement, or sealing, of a criminal record when they become adults. 
 In cases where no charges were filed and only an arrest appears on record, juveniles who remain out of trouble for 10 years will have the arrest expunged from their record without having to file a petition

Juveniles tried as adults / charged with felonies: In cases where juveniles were charged as adults or where the offense would have been considered a felony had the child been at least 16 years old, a petition for expungement must be completed. Juveniles may qualify for an Expungement if charges were dismissed, juveniles were not found guilty, or a guilty plea was not entered. Even in cases where a juvenile was found guilty, you can still file a petition and request the court to consider an Expungement of arrest, court, or conviction records.

Expungement: Sealing a criminal record can be a complicated process, and it is one that varies from case to case depending on the age of an individual and the unique set of facts involved. Therefore, when I work on cases like this --- we work to secure outcomes that will increase the odds of pursing an Expungement - later. 

The Rolloff Law Office has a lot of experience handling juvenile crime and juvenile Expungement matters, and we are prepared to help you better understand if your child may be eligible for this releif. To discuss your case with an attorney from our firm during a free consultation, contact us today: (612) 234-1165

Affordable Criminal Defense Lawyer (Apple Valley)

Unlike a trip to your favorite restaurant, you are unlikely to find - when visiting an attorney  - a flat rate for his services based just on the alleged crime committed.  Instead, as an experienced Apple Valley Criminal Defense Attorney, when I determine a total cost I lok at a number of factors.  

Why Do You Charge What You Charge?

Some common considerations --- that go into determining how much money you can expect to spend on your legal services include:

1. Your Case (Type/Level of Offense)

The largest factor in determining the cost of my services depends on exactly what you’re asking me to do. For example, hiring an attorney to get you out of an assault charge is going to cost more than paying him to get you out of a traffic ticket.  Another big factor is how much time I/we will need to spend reviewing, preparing and fighting your case. Again ... I'm not going to need a whole lot of time getting up to speed on a Driving After Revocation ticket; however, something like a DWI or a felony controlled substance crime charge --- that will often involve a lot more work.  

When we meet --- and I know what you want/need me to do --- and what I can do --- I should be able to give you an idea of how much time I'll need to get you that result at the initial, free consultation.


2. Experience

Often ... the more experienced an attorney is, the more money he is apt to charge you.  (And, going to an inexperienced may save you money at the outset, but if they can’t secure an outcome - that considers not only the short term consequences ... but, also looks at where you might be five-years down the road - you might end up paying more or getting a worse sentence in the end. 

As a former prosecutor, I saw many people overcharged and under-served.  I try to be fair ... because I know that not everyone has a ton of money to thrown at situations like this.  
   

In the final analysis ... money (although an important consideration,) should not be the only metric you use to gauge who might be the right lawyer for you.  Call or set up a FREE CONSULTATION with the Rolloff Law Office today.  I'll explain what I can do, and how affordable it can be.  Call: (612) 234-1165.

Dakota County Expungments (Explained)

If the right requirements are met, there are some crimes that many crimes that can be expunged. Although the law changed in 2015, sealing your record isn't guaranteed.  In all reality, an individual must have a very good reason to have a charge/convictionexpunged, such as the negative impact the criminal record is having on that person’s life. For instance, an individual may have difficulty finding a job or finding a place to live.  If you need to know more, you should strongly consider consulting an experienced Minnesota Expungment Attorney. 

Crimes That Can Be Expunged

A judge uses the law (and their own discretion) when a person requests to have a conviction wiped off of their record so they can apply for a specific job or find a place to live.

Some of the crimes that can be expunged include:

• Assault
• Felony or misdemeanor theft
• Disorderly conduct
• Obstruction of justice

The expungement process is a complicated one and that’s why you need a Minneapolis Criminal Defense Attorney to help you. A lawyer knows how to navigate the process when all you want to do is move on with your life toward a better future.

Why Seek an Expungement?

The reason why you want to go for expungement is due to the impact a criminal record has on you - now and in the future.  Criminal records are maintained at the city, county, and state levels. They document the type of crime, when the crime occurred, details of the charges, the court where the case was heard, and sentencing detail. The records become public record, so employers, landlords, and anyone who needs to conduct a background check on you can access them.

When your Dakota County Criminal Defense Attorney is able to have your record expunged, it does not show up on these background checks. It is not completely erased in case it does need to be accessed by law enforcement, but there is no interference with you finding a good job, renting an apartment, or going to the school of your choice. The short-term and long-term advantages of expungement make undergoing the process worth it. Even the legal cost is minimal compared to the earnings you will receive by being able to work within a career that pays you what you are worth rather than working in one that pays you pennies because of a criminal record.
 

If you have been convicted of a crime and you know or believe that you qualify for expungement, The Rolloff Law Office can help you determine your eligibility and can help you meet that goal if you are. An expungement can help you start over and move on with your life toward a brighter future. To find out more about what can be done for you and what your rights and options are, call (612) 234-1165

Minnesota Terroristic Threats Charges

In the State of Minnesota making a Terrorist Threat is considered a felony offense. That being said ... even a innocent statement can be considered a threat when it was never intended to be such. Maybe you said something out of frustration, anger, or were annoyed. In the end, it all comes down to how someone else interprets the statement that was made. If they do so incorrectly, then it turns into something very serious. That is why you need to turn to an experienced Minneapolis Criminal Defense Attorney who can defend your rights and reveal the facts in your case. 

What Are Terroristic Threat?

There are different types of terroristic threats. One of the most common type is when someone threatens violence --- and a conviction can result in a fine of up to $10,000 and five years in prison. 

If any of the following factors exist, then a terroristic threat charge could result:

• A public place or mode of public transportation is evacuated because of an alleged threat
• The public experiences an inconvenience caused by an alleged threat and/or the threat is the result of reckless disregard for others and the terror that the threat can cause them.
• The threat is to commit a violent crime with the intention of terrorizing another person or other people.

A person may also tell another that they are going to commit a terrorist act or terrorize people in some way. Simply saying that there is a possible threat, such as an explosive or another device located within a building or area, regardless of whether it is or not, a conviction can result. 

How to Defend a Terroristic Threat Accusation?

Every type of alleged threat is taken very seriously, by the government, and this is why you need a Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyer.  While it may seem as if the charges cannot be beat, it is not impossible. Like ... when the accusations don’t have enough evidence to back them up. 
 

Terroristic threats are very serious crimes ... with just as serious penalities and consequences.  So ... know this: it will be aggressively prosecuted, even if that statement or action was not a threat at all. If you have been accused of making a terroristic threat, call the Rolloff Law Office at (612) 234-1165 for a FREE CONSULTATION.  

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

Hennepin County Drug Charges (Heroin)

Heroin ... all over the news these days ... is being reported as one of the more addictive drugs & its abuse is once again climbing. Law enforcement, law makers and the courts are not blind to this fact, and they are taking action.

If you or someone you love is accused of heroin possession in the State of Minnesota, there’s a good chance that you are scared - and rightfully so. Fortunately, an experienced 
Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney may be able to help. 

Consider This

Minnesota is known for being tough on crime ... and Controlled Substance Crimes in particular.  Possession of heroin is a serious felony-level charge, no matter how much someone is accused of possessing. This means that a conviction could result in prison time, lengthy probation ... and all of the "crap" that goes along with being charged with a felony. 

Having had started out as a prosecutor, I have an insight into how these matters can and should be handled ... working to earn a   a positive resolution of your case.

Penalties

Possession of heroin is a felony charge, no matter the amount one is found to possess.  However, the actual amount does factor into  the charge you face and the potential consequences.  In the State of Minnesota, the law sets-forth these penalties:  

• Fifth Degree Possession (Less than 3 grams) - up to 5 years in Prison and $10,000 in fines;
• Third Degree Possession (From 3 - 5.9 grams)  - up to 20 years in prison and $250,000 in fines;
• Second Degree Possession (From 6- 24.9 grams) - up to 25 years and $500,000 in fines; and 
• First Degree Possession (25 grams or more) - up to 30 years and $1 million in fines.

Evidentary Issues 

There are many laws protecting your rights and dictating how the evidence gathered against you must be handled ... and if law enforcement fails to do their job correctly ... there are sometimes opportunities for your Minnesota Controlled Substance Crime Attorney to argue that it should be suppressed.

Example: If it can be shown that your rights were violated in the search or that the evidence was not properly handled, there may be cause to have your case thrown out completely.

Plea Deals

In many cases, a plea bargain is the best option for everyone involved. This is true ... if you admit some level of wrongdoing but want to avoid the worst possible penalties. Often, especially if this is your first offense, you can avoid prison time with a plea agreement --- you can even (maybe) keep this off of your record all together.  The terms of the agreement will be based on a variety of factors including the facts of your case, the prosecutor working on it, and your prior record.
   

The best criminal defense strategy for your case depends on a million different things ... all too often.  Working with the Rolloff Law Office, to develop this strategy, begins with a FREE CONSULTATION.  Call today to discuss your case.

Minnesota Shoplifting at Wal-Mart (Attorney)

As as experienced Minnesota Shoplifting Attorney, I get loads and loads of questions, here is one of the ost common:

Mr Rolloff, 

I recently received a civil demand letter in the mail from attorney Michael Ira Asen P.C stating I must pay $250 in 30 days. 

I was caught stealing from Walmart. It was my first time ever stealing and it won't happen again. (The police were called and I was also given a citation.)  I was also told I had to stay away from the sore for a year.   

What if I am unable to pay the fine in time? Do I even have to pay it at all since there were no police involved? 

Caught

  
The Truth

Retailers are allowed by statute to make the demand. It is not a scam (as often suggested) but a legitimate demand allowed by law. That being said, there is procedure to this ... and if you really want to part with you money, pay it.  If not, you (or an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney) can respond to these demands ... and, if my experience is any indication, you WILL NOT have to pay anything.  Additionally, paying this demand WILL NOT have any impact on the citation you received.  You will still have to go to court to answer for this allegation.
   

 Sure, there is more I can say, so ... if you have any questions/concerns, please fee free to contact the Rolloff Law Office for FREE ANSWERS.  Call Today: (612) 234-1165

Hennepin County Probation Violations (Explained)

So ... your case has been resolved .... and, as part of the settlement, you've been placed on probation.  Things were going good ... and then you slipped --- whether it was a bad UA or maybe a new criminal charge ... now you're facing a probation violation.  Now what?

Believe it or not Minnesota has some fairly generous sentencing conditions and first (heck, even second) time probation offenders can often have most or all of their jail time suspended - without going to prison - under certain conditions.  Yes, Virginia --- there are 2nd and 3rd chances ... but, you have to earn the,  This is where and experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney can be a good resource.  

What Should You Do?

Probation violations can come into being fast (and easily.) So, if there is talk - from your agent - that a violation is coming, you should be prepared to act as jail can happen. If you’re on probation, here are some very concrete steps you can take to avoid probation violations, or empower an attorney to beat a probation violation if one is filed. These steps can mean the difference between freedom and jail.

1. Maintain Your Own Record

One of the biggest problems Minnesota Criminal Defense Lawyers face when helping someone with a probation violation is a lack of memory and the absence of a timeline.  So ... you are best served by keeping track of every call, letter and contact you have with your agent.  One thing you might want to consider ... get your agent's email address and communicate that way.  Then, keep those emails.  

2. Don't Disappear 

The easiest way to avoid problems - aside from following the court's orders to a "T" is to (especially is there is an "issue") keep in contact with your agent.Believe it or not, the biggest problem have while on probation ... it is not the occasional "slip," instead ... it is failing to communicate with your minder.  DO that ... and HUGE problems can be avoided.  TIP: The probation officer has no obligation to track you down. You should immediately inform your probation officer IN WRITING of your new address or phone number.

If you have not heard from your probation officer in a while, don’t assume everything is fine. Be proactive. Contact them out of the blue at least once a month if you haven’t heard from them and ask whether there is anything they need from you. Write it down that you contacted them, and what their response is if any. No news is not always good news. If they can’t find you, they can violate your probation for lack of contact.

Do not miss meetings with your probation officer.  You should make meetings with your probation officer an absolute priority, as much as getting to work on time or picking you kids up from school.  Missed meetings can result in a violation.  If you’re in jail, you can’t work, and you can’t parent.  Put your meeting dates into your calendar on your phone and set alarms on it days in advance.  Alternatively, write them down on your wall calendar or in a day planner.

3. Know Your Drugs.

Many medications can result in dirty UAs ... so, especially if this is the result of a valid prescribed drug that you are on ... more than you word, your agent is going to want to see proof.  Tip: Keep information about your medications. 

4. Save a Lawyer's Number on Your Phone

You are not required to admit to your agent that you may have violated your probation.  If you even think you’re going to face a violation, call an experienced lawyer before it’s even filed or brought up at a meeting --- and let that person do the talking for you.  A good lawyer should be able to give at least preliminary advice for free, but you should be prepared and save money up for the possible need to hire one if you face a probation violation. 

Don’t take too many chances, this is your liberty I'm talking about.  If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Rolloff Law Office for a FREE CONSULTATION: (612) 234-1165

Should I Hire A Lawyer to Fight a Traffic Ticket

A question I get, as an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney, from people who have received traffic tickets for such traffic infraction as speeding, no seat belt, no motorcycle endorsement, failure to wear corrective lenses ... is: Should I hire a lawyer to help me with my traffic ticket?


While it does cost to hire a lawyer, what an experienced Minneapolis Traffic Ticket Attorney can save you in fines, fees, court costs, time and especially car insurance premiums, will normally far exceed the up-front cost of an attorney. 

Often, no one, including the prosecutors, wants to see your insurance rates go up, but to take advantage of the various methods to keep your costs down (including insurance points and costs), you often are required to get professional help to get a deal which keeps an infraction off of your record. 

 

So, before you just pay the ticket because you're guilty ...    think about saving yourself the lengthy, costly, and oftentimes ongoing hassle of increased court costs, fees, fines, and insurance costs/points by hiring an attorney. 

 

Call the Rolloff Law Office --- we will ask you all of the appropriate questions, run your driving record, and negotiate with the District Attorney to figure out the best method of handling your ticket, which can (and often does) save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars in the long run.  

 

Call today: (612) 234-1165 

Hennepin County Juvenile Criminal Defense Lawyer

The crimes that juveniles commit are the same as those that adults commit. From underage Drunk Driving to murder, the only difference in the commission of these crimes is the age of the defendant.

Depending on the crime, the juvenile may establish a juvenile criminal record, which means the record will be sealed when they turn 18. If they are tried as an adult because of the severity of their crime and their age when they committed it, the record could follow them throughout the rest of their life. This could cause them difficulty finding a place to live, finding meaningful employment, and even going to college.

If you are the parent of a child who has been charged with a crime, it is important to secure the assistance of an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney Through this experience, your child can receive the best possible result in their case.

Experience With All Types Of Juvenile Offenses

There are some crimes that juveniles are charged with more than others. Some of these common crimes are:

• Theft
• Assault
• Vandalism
• Underage DWI
• Disorderly conduct
• Probation violation
• Drug possession

Juveniles can also be charged with sex crimes and even murder. 

If you are the parent of a child who has been charged with a criminal act, you are most likely wondering about your child’s future. The good news is that there are some options for your child so that he or she can have a productive future. To learn more, call the Rolloff Law Office at (612) 234-1165 to set up a free consultation.

Hastings Criminal Defense Lawyer - Affordable

Any individual who seeks legal services already knows they need the help of an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney. That being said ... the should not have to go to law school to understand the legal system.

Having had been at this for some time, I am well aware that individuals who have been arrested for something are frightened about the consequences they may face. They have been through an emotional experience. They don’t understand the legal process and they can be frustrated by people who speak in legal jargon. 

One of my jobs is to explain to individuals what their rights are, to look at whether any of them have been violated and to explain how the court system works — to make it a lot less intimidating and frightening.  If you or someone you love has caught a case, you likely think that there is serious trouble ahead.  My goal is to talk straight ... to tell the truth ... and by shining light on the dilemma --- help everyone understand what they’re facing and what the possibilities are.

I take the time to explain in a language they can understand exactly what the issues are. I know how to ask the right questions. They can explain to me in their own words what happened and I can translate that from legal jargon into what their rights and responsibilities will be.

I do that throughout the whole process, not at just the first meeting.... through the whole case.  

For any criminal defense legal services you think you might need, please feel free to contact the Rolloff Law Office for a FREE CONSULTATION and to earn a clear understanding of what your options are.  CALL NOW: (612) 234-1165

Dakota County DWI Questions

As a Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney I get a lot of questions ... lots and lots of questions.  Here are some answers to the most frequently asked about Drunk Driving arrests.

What is BAC? 

Your BAC ... or blood alcohol content ... determines whether the government charges you with a DUI ... and at what level. In Minnesota, the BAC limit is (.08). If your BAC is (.08) or higher, police may arrest you for driving under the influence, or DUI. You may also lose your license.

What is an ignition interlock device? 

Ignition interlock is a device is used to monitor the behaviors of convicted drunk drivers --- attached to your vehicle. It requires the driver to provide frequent breath samples in order for the engine to start --- and for the vehicle to continue to operate.  According to state law, drivers whose licenses are canceled and whose privileges are denied as “inimical to public safety” are required to enroll in the Minnesota Ignition Interlock Device program in order to have their driving privileges reinstated.  Having this device in your vehicle can also help you to get back on the road sooner ... not having to have to wait-out the license revocation period.

Will I go to jail for my first DWI? 

Safe answer: It depends.  However, based on the facts of your case, you can avoid that shame.  A lawyer can help you, if the government is pressing for jail, help to negotiate an alternative too. 

Do I really need a DWI defense lawyer? 

No.  However, it can't hurt to talk to one ... or even hire one so as to increase chances of having the charges against you reduced or possibly dropped. 

Get answers to YOUR questions.  Schedule a FREE CONSULTATION with the Rolloff Law Office.  Call: (612) 234-1165

How to Beat a Minnesota Speeding Ticket (Explained)

You just got a ticket ... and you can't have it go on your record, right?  An experienced Minnesota Traffic Ticket Lawyer an help you with that.

Defenses to a Speeding Ticket

There are many potential defenses to a speeding charge. Most people who get speeding tickets have a clean record over the previous five years.  

This is favorable.  

A person with a clean record has a better chance of getting an outcome such as a suspension of prosecution or stay of adjudication --- the kind of result that should keep their driving record clean,  Granted, it will come at a cost ... but it should actually save you money in the long run - see: increased insurance costs. 

The number-one non-lawyer mistake I have observed over my life as a Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney is to focus on defenses rather than  the desired outcome.  

Keep your eye on the prize. 

Justice is not perfect in our imperfect world.  The laws are enforced and administered by humans.  If you are wrongly accused of a traffic offense, despite the B.S. of being falsely accused, it may be better to be willing to pay to keep the ticket off of your record - even if you are innocent.  That said, here is some discussion of defenses.

1.  Reasonable and Prudent.  Even if you were over the posted on the highway, was the speed reasonable and prudent? Intent can play a role here as well.  Relevant factors could include road conditions, traffic conditions, incline, mechanical issues, etc.

2.  Passing.

3.  Identity. Can the state prove that your vehicle was the one that was actually speeding?

4.  Excuse defenses.  Example: How about the person driving a heart attack victim, or woman in labor, to the emergency room?

5.  Evidentiary issues.  Can the government offer sufficent foundation or its speed evidence - ie., documents showing that the radar or laser/lidar was in fact working?  

6.  Impossibility.  Can a state trooper in a helicopter (with a stop watch) really assert that a motorcyclist was traveling significantly faster than the maximum top speed for that motorcycle?

I'm a former prosecutor who has participated in hundreds of Traffic Citation trials --- on one side or the other.  (I've even picked up a few tickets myself.)  Let me put my inside knowledge to work for you.  Call The Rolloff Law Office for a FREE CONSULTATION.  (612) 234-1165. 

Hiring a Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney

As you might imagine --- the (all too often wrong yet) number one question I get about who to hire as a Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney is: "How much is this going to cost me?"

Now I'm not so dumb as to not understand that price is a huge factor when one contemplates the person they are going to hire to represent them in court; however, it should never be the only point on which that person focuses.  As an example, here's a situation I was party to recently:

What Would You Do?

Imagine two attorneys, each presented with the same criminal case by an individual searching for representation.

The first attorney is honest with the potential client, telling him that it is unlikely that the case will prevail at trial, and that the matter will most likely be resolved through a plea agreement (as is the case with almost every criminal case).  The attorney then tells the potential client that the fee will be relatively low, and offers to take the case for $1,000.

The second attorney has a different strategy; he tells the potential client that the case can be beaten, promises the individual the world, tells him exactly what he wants to hear, and offers to take the case for $3,000.

Assuming the client earns an average income, which attorney is she likely to take?

The answer: Almost invariably --- the 2nd Attorney.

Although the first attorney is honest and fair priced, the dishonest and expensive maverick will get the case.  Even if the second attorney never delivers on his high promises, it is of no concern to him; he’s already been paid.  Criminal cases usually require payment in advance (especially if there is a chance the client will be incarcerated at the conclusion of representation), and due to ethical concerns criminal cases may not be contingent on the outcome.

Now What?

Frankly, I don't dig the idea of being dishonest or scarring my clients into hiring me (even if it might earn me a bigger retainer.)  Others might not have an issue with it at all.

Because I'm affordable, because I'm honest --- I can sleep at night,  A promise I make to anyone who places their trust in me is that I will go after their case like it was my name on that file.  They will never not know what they need to know - even the hard stuff --- and in the end, they will (hopefully) have been spared getting screwed - by the courts and me.

What can someone who needs an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney do?  My #1 suggestion is to find someone you can trust.  Referrals from family and friends are a good place to start.  It might also be a good idea to do some shopping - some tire-kicking.  If you visit three or four attorneys, you should be able to get a decent idea of what to expect in terms of price and results.  Remember, the two are not always related.  Call The Rolloff Law Office to and set up a FREE CONSULTATION: (612) 234-1165.