Fighting Minnesota Domestic Assault Charges

Believe it or not --- you can be charged with Domestic Assault in the State of Minnesota without even physically touching anyone. Due to the often bizarre nature of these charges - and the serious consequences - you should speak to an experienced Minnesota Domestic Assault Attorney.  

What Is Domestic Assault in Minnesota?

True --- it is not necessary to touch the victim in order to be charged with domestic assault. The Minnesota statutes set-forth that if a person commits an act against a family or household member with the intent to cause fear in another of immediate bodily harm or death; or intentionally inflicts or attempts to inflict bodily harm upon another, he is guilty of domestic assault.  The laws further define “family or household members” to include: spouses and former spouses; parents and children; persons related by blood; persons who are presently residing together or who have resided together in the past; persons who have a child in common regardless of whether they have been married or have lived together at any time; a man and woman if the woman is pregnant and the man is alleged to be the father, regardless of whether they have been married or have lived together at any time; and/or persons involved in a significant romantic or sexual relationship. Under this definition, any violent act could be considered domestic assault if it’s against a family or household member and it causes fear of bodily harm or death; and/or if someone attempts to cause or actually causes bodily harm.

Minnesota Domestic Assault Punishments

There are different levels of a domestic assault offense depending on the circumstances of the alleged crime.Domestic assault is generally a misdemeanor offense, which is punishable by up to 90 days in jail, a fine up to $1,000, or both.Domestic assault becomes a gross misdemeanor if the offender commits a domestic assault within 10 years of a previous domestic violence-related offense conviction or an adjudication of delinquency. A gross misdemeanor is punishable by up to one year in jail, a fine up to $3,000, or both  If a firearm was involved in the domestic assault, further consequences could include forfeiting your firearms as well as not being allowed to possess any type of firearm for any period longer than three years or for the remainder of your life.You can also be charged with felony domestic assault if you commit a domestic assault within 10 years of two or more previous domestic violence-related offense convictions or adjudications of delinquency. A felony domestic assault is punishable by up to five years in prison, a fine up to $10,000, or both.

 
Fighting Your Minnesota Domestic Assault Charge

Domestic assault charges are taken seriously in our state and can negatively impact all aspects of your life. If you want the best chance to beat your domestic assault charges and clear your name, reach out to an experienced Minnesota Domestic Assault Attorney today to get started on fighting for your rights. Contact the Rolloff Law Office to aggressively challenge these allegations.  Call today: (612) 234-1165

Sherburne County Juvenile Court (Explained)

If you are a parent of family member who has questions about a child that has been arrested --- you are most likely upset and confused. True --- you don’t want this young person's future to be compromised in any way. If there is any (early) good news it is that the courts in the State of Minnesota are actually set-up to focus on ensuring a better future for almost every juvenile offender by stressing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.  Bearing as much in mind, it is important to consult with an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney --- to ensure that you can earn the best possible income for your loved one.  

What You Need to Know

The State of Minnesota has a specific set of laws on the books that apply to minors. These laws tell the courts to handle juvenile cases differently than adult cases.

At the Rolloff Law Office, you will work with an experienced juvenile defense attorney who explain to you your family's options with you --- telling you everything that you need to know so that you can make well-informed decisions.  You will know what to expect at every phase in the case.

The Minnesota Juvenile Court System

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

Types Of Juvenile Crimes


I handle all types of juvenile crimes. While a child can commit any crime than an adult can, there are some that are more common than others. Those common types are:

• Assault
• Burglary
• Theft 
• Terroristic threats
• DWI
• Drug crimes  

If you are the parent of a child who has been accused of a crime, one of the first things you need to do is call an experienced and affordable juvenile attorney. By giving your child the representation that he deserves, you are taking a step toward preservinghis future. To learn more about how the The Rolloff Law Office can help you --- Call (612) 234-1165 and set-up a Free Consultation.

St. Paul Prostituion Lawyer

Prostitution and solicitation charges vary in severity depending on your alleged level of involvement. This is why you should strongly consider talking your case over with an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney.

Depending on your alleged involvement, you have the potential of being charged with anything from a misdemeanor up to a felony. In addition, if your alleged involvement happened in a school or park zone, the penalties are more severe than they would normally have been. Finally, prostitution and solicitation charges can have profound personal consequences on your life, regardless of the outcome of the criminal case. 

If you or someone you love needs help with a criminal case, like prostitution and/or solicitation, call the Rolloff Law Office  to set up a free consultation: (612) 234-1165

Minnesota DWI Effects (Explained)

Many of my clients are anxious to know how a DWI conviction will effect them, and for how long. The concern is that it not only limits your ability to drive --- but it also impacts your employment opportunities, effects insurance rates, carries with it a social stigma, gives you a criminal record, and acts as a "prior" for future DWI charges (heaven forbid.)  As a former prosecutor, and (now) as an expreienced Minnesota DWI Attorney, I have worked on thousands of case ... no two are ever the same, but one thing satys the same: A good defense can help clear the path for less problems in the future.

What You Need to Know

In Minnesota a DWI conviction will stay on your record for life ... and over the next 10 years (after such a conviction goes in against you) it can really cause problems.  Example: a second DWI within that 10 year period dramatically increases the penalties (criminal  and civil) you face if convicted again, and a fourth DWI within the 10 year period is a felony, punishable by sending you to prison.  
I have been successful in negotiating with prosecutors to reduce a DWI charge to a Careless Driving or even a non-alcohol related Reckless driving conviction under certain circumstances. (A lot of this depends on the facts of your case ... but, there is a good amount of wiggleroom (and things you can do to be the person worthy of such a result) but when it happens, it reduces the time a conviction may stay on your record ... even affording you a chance to have the matter Expunged.)  I can also help you to be able to help you keep your drivers license, and lessen the impact on your insurance.

If you want to avoid having a DWI on your record for life, call the Rolloff Law Office to schedule an appointment. I will review the facts of the case and see what if any negotiations can be done to reduce your conviction. Call to set up a free consultation: (612) 234-1165

Apple Valley Shoplifting Attorney

Theft is a term that encompasses various offenses. It is the defined as the act of taking services or property from another individual intentionally, and with the intent to deprive the owner of them permanently, without their authorization or consent.

Theft crimes can be categorized as felonies, misdemeanors or gross misdemeanors --- the of offense is typically determined by the value of the services or property stolen, the person you allegedly stole from, and whether the theft involved a dangerous item such as a weapon, explosive, or vehicle.

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In Minnesota a theft charge may lead to harsh penalties such as hefty fines and imprisonment, mandatory counseling, community service, and paying restitution to the alleged victim. Moreover, since theft is viewed as a crime of dishonesty a conviction will make it very difficult to find employment and even housing.  This is why you should seek some professional insight from an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney.  

Because of the seriousness of a theft/shoplifting charge, it is important that you have a lawyer with a proven track record in criminal defense help you.

The Rolloff Law Office has extensive experience and has had great success in defending shoplifting/theft criminal cases. 

Time and time again, I have won DISMISSALS and NOT GUILTY verdicts for my clients in Theft cases. 

Call me --- I'll explain the best defense strategy and how I will fight to win your case. You are presumed innocent. Just because you have been charged with theft does not mean you are guilty.

To protect your future, call The Rolloff Law Office  today: (612) 234-1165.

Maple Grove Prostitution Arrests (Explained)

A number of hig profile Prostitution Arrests have made the news recently.  If you are looking for help with such a charge, you first call should be to an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney.  Just because someone has been arrested - it does not mean that they will me convicted.  Here are some defenses to such a charge.

1. Entrapment Defense occurs when a government official (such as a police officer) entices a person to commit a crime that they otherwise would not commit. Proving entrapment is often difficult in these cases because offenders actively seek out prostitutes without knowing that they are undercover police officers. Thus, it is easy for the prosecution to argue the offender’s act of prostitution was premeditated, not forced.

2. Lack of Probable Cause Defense may be used when a prostitution patron is arrested prior to an agreement to engage in prostitution. An officer must have probable cause to arrest someone for prostitution. This means an explicit offer to engage in sexual contact for hire must be reached and documented. If the prosecution cannot prove that such an agreement occurred, the defendant can use this defense. It will be left up to a judge to determine whether the state has a reasonable belief based on all facts and circumstances that the defendant has committed the act of prostitution. This also requires in-court testimony by the defendant.

3.  Due Process Defense is a viable option when, during the course of a prostitution arrest, a government official displays outrageous conduct such as to make the continuation of the case unconstitutional. For example, if a police officer involved in a prostitution sting is caught engaging in sexual contact during said sting, the due process of law is violated. A judge will be left to determine whether the state acted in conduct that violated the due process rights of the accused.
Prostitution is often an embarrassing charge that most offenders wish to keep under wraps. The prosecution knows this and will use it to their advantage when negotiating a plea. Thus, it is essential to have a knowledgeable attorney to help you through the complex legal proceedings.

The best possible defense against a prostitution charge is to not engage in prostitution. If you or someone you know is addicted to prostitution, the best course of action is to seek help. Call the Rolloff Law Office for a FREE CONSULTATION: (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 Stay of Adjudication (Explained)

**** NEWS FLASH ****


If you've been charged with an offense - there's no guarantee you'll actually be convicted of it.  Additionally, you may even plead guilty - and not have the offense go on your record.  


Seriously, a Minnesota Stay of Adjudication for a felony (or misdemeanor) level offense can entirely avoid a conviction --- provided you successfully complete probation. How do you get this "deal"? The first place to start is by consulting with an experienced Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney.  


What?


With a Stay of Adjudication: You do plead guilty to an offense. However, the Judge does not "accept" your guilty plea.  Rather, you get a Sentence of a "Stay of Adjudication." 


What this means is that a conviction for an offense is not entered on your criminal record, provided you successfully complete probation. Once you do, he charges are dismissed, and your criminal record is clear of any convictions. However, arrest records will still show that you were arrested. In order to get rid of these arrest records, you will need to pursue an expungement of your record.


Or put another way: Adjudication of your guilt will be "stayed," meaning that you will not be found guilty. However, you will still be placed on probation. Additionally, the Court may still impose probationary conditions that include local jail time, fines, community service, electronic home monitoring, or any other conditions the Court deems appropriate.

Now What?



If you are charged with any offense, and do not want to take the risk of going to trial, a stay of adjudication is the best way to avoid any conviction at all. Ideally, your Minnesota Criminal Defense Attorney will aggressively negotiate with the prosecutor in order to get you a stay of adjudication. With the right lawyer, you may be able to receive a sentence that will not impact you as severely throughout the rest of your life. 


If you've been charged with any criminal, contact The Rolloff Law Office today to discuss your case and the options available to you. Call (612) 234-1165.