Accused Of A Gross Misdemeanor In Minneapolis?

Gross misdemeanors are criminal offenses that are not quite at the felony level. However, this does not mean that having a gross misdemeanor violation on your criminal record will simply be waved off in the future. Having a gross misdemeanor can negatively impact your ability to obtain employment and housing. Gross misdemeanors in the state of Minnesota are punishable by up to one year in prison and/or a fine of $3,000.

Gross Misdemeanor Offenses

There are a number of offenses that are considered gross misdemeanors including the following:

  • Third and second degree DWI or DUI offenses
  • Repeat assaults
  • Driving offenses
  • Repeat violations
  • Fifth degree criminal sexual conduct
  • Shoplifting

Gross Misdemeanor Procedure

It most instances of gross misdemeanor offenses, you will be arrested and put in jail. You will need to make a bail appearance where your release conditions will be determined. Similar to the felony court hearing procedure, the defendant will first need to go through an arraignment hearing, where a judge will make sure the defendant understands his rights. Next will be an omnibus hearing where cause and evidence will be looked at. It is then on to the pre-trial hearing where the defense attorney and the prosecutor attempt to come to an agreement, called a plea. If this does not work, then a court date is set where the defendant must stand on trial. It is important to seek a qualified criminal defense attorney to represent you during the trial.

Sure, a gross misdemeanor accusation is not as severe as a felony conviction but it can still negatively impact your entire quality of life. Gross misdemeanor offenses often result in prison time, fines, community service and rehabilitation. Furthermore, you may have trouble finding decent employment or housing facilities with a gross misdemeanor charge on your criminal record. Gross misdemeanor convictions will also make it harder for you to move on with your life, especially if you are in trouble with the law in the future.

Twin Cities Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you or someone you love is currently struggling with a gross misdemeanor conviction, regardless of the offense, then it is important you contact a qualified attorney. Gross misdemeanor convictions should not be taken lightly and the sooner you speak to a legal representative, the faster he can begin working on your defense to ensure the best outcome possible. Keyser Criminal Defense will determine your best defense strategy and represent you in a court of law. Contact Criminal Defense Attorney Christopher W. Keyser at (612) 338-5007 for a free, confidential and pressure-free case evaluation.

Representing Clients across Minnesota

Keyser Criminal Defense represent clients throughout Minnesota, including the Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester, Mankato, St. Cloud, Moorhead, Apple Valley, Blaine, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park, Burnsville, Coon Rapids, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Edina, Lakeville, Maple Grove, Maplewood, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Richfield, Roseville and Woodbury.