Minneapolis Juvenile Offenses (Explained)

If you have a child who has been arrested, you are most likely upset and confused - true?  I am sure you don’t want that child’s future to be compromised in any way. 

In all of this "bad" there is good news --- Minnesota’s courts actually focus on ensuring a better future for a juvenile offender by looking toward resolutions that include rehabilitation rather than just punishment. This is one reason why there are specific laws that apply to minors. These laws tell the courts to handle juvenile cases differently than adult cases.

An experienced Minnesota Juvenile Criminal Defense Attorney, can help you review your options, explain everything that you need to know  --- so that any decision you need to make are ones where you are fully informed.

What Can an Attorney Do?

Depending on the severity of the juvenile charge, a decision will be made as to which court the case will be tried in. It is possible for a juvenile to be tried as an adult if they commit what is considered an adult crime, such as murder. Since the penalties and consequences handed down in adult court will be adult level consequences, the juvenile would have to serve time in an adult prison. This is another reason why it is imperative to have a highly experienced attorney by your side.

What Kinds of Cases?

The Rolloff Law Office handles all types of juvenile crimes. While a child can commit any crime that an adult can, there are some that are more common than others. Those common types are:

• Assault
• Burglary
• Vandalism
• Theft and shoplifting
• Terroristic threats
• Probation violations
• DWI
• Drug crimes

As stated before, juveniles can be charged with much more severe offenses because they do commit them and they are accused of them. Murder/homicide and sex offenses are among those that can automatically move a child’s case to the adult court system. However, it does depend on the severity of the crime and whether or not the child is at an age where they should know better than to commit the offense that they committed because of its extreme nature. Whether or not the child can handle the consequences is also looked at because, if they can handle the crime, it is presumed they can handle the consequences. Your attorney will work with you and the child every step of the way to make sure the best result is achieved no matter how severe the alleged crime.

If you are the parent of a child who has been accused of a crime, one of the first things you should do is call an attorney. Getting a representative for your child --- you are taking a step toward preserving their future. And, while it may seem like the end of the road --- let me show you that it isn't,  To learn more about how the Rolloff Law Office can help you and your child, call (612) 234-1165 and set up a free consultation.

Minnesota Traffic Tickets & Insurance (Explained)

The number one reason I hear - over and over again - when it comes to people seeking assistance with Minnesota Traffic Tickets is because they don't want it to impact their insurance premiums. 

Well, believe it or not ... your insurance company is thinking the same thing --- if a recent call I had with an insurance agent is any indication. 

The Call

I often tell individuals I've heard it all - and time after time I'm surprised.  The same goes for this recent call --- an insurance agent wanting to talk with a Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney to help their clients to get out of their speeding tickets?

Here's what I learned ... the philosophy that this company takes toward their clients is truly one of partnership. People are required to have car insurance to drive, but this particular company doesn't feel like it is responsible to hold it's clients hostage for a minor traffic ticket, nor do they feel like it's good business to encourage their clients to hide their driving from them in hopes of keeping their premiums lower.This company, which specializes in low risk drivers, has found that their customers are more satisfied with their service and actually drive better knowing they can turn to their insurer if anything should happen.

After the Call

This whole interaction got me to thinking about what, exactly, a car insurance company should do for you. Are they in the business just to make money off of your premiums and then make it as difficult as possible for you if you ever get into an accident? Or, are they a trusted part of your team trusted to help you if and when the need arises? And, if it's the latter, is the best way to create that relationship by encouraging an open dialogue with the client?

Should You Tell Your Insurance Company About Your Traffic Ticket?

One thing I learned from this call was that not everyone should tell their insurance company about their speeding ticket. Some companies are required, as part of their policy, to flag your account for that. Most of those companies are nationally known (I don't know which ones specifically do that, I just know that some do). By calling them, you are setting yourself up for higher premiums, even after you hire a traffic attorney to beat your ticket.

All of the above being said, there is a lesson to be learned for all of us. The company I met with is locally owned and operated. They don't have thousands and thousands of employees. They aren't publicly traded. Making money is important to them, but it's not the only thing. There's something to be said for that. Remember that when you're looking around for help. Test out the local options. You might pay slightly more, but what you get in return could be well worth the price.

What Next?

This isn't an insurance company and I don't talk to your insurance companies about my client traffic tickets. But, like this insurance company, I value my relationships with them and I want to keep in touch with everyone of them during those times they need me - and when they don't.  If you want to know that your attorney has your best interest at heart - when your case is going on and after --- then call the Rolloff Law Office today - (612) 234-1165. And, if you need a kick-ass Minnesota Traffic Lawyer, call me --- I'll do whatever I can to beat your traffic ticket, saving you money on the fine and increased insurance premiums.