Martine Law is a dedicated law firm in Minnesota representing clients who have been accused of a criminal offense. We have decades of experience handling criminal cases throughout the state. When you’re charged with a serious criminal offense, it may seem like the whole world’s against you. But we’ll stand by your side no matter what.
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Our Criminal Defense Services
At Martine Law, we’ve represented countless clients accused of crimes ranging from petty misdemeanors to felony assault. So we understand what you’re going through.
You might be frightened and worried about the legal and personal consequences if you’re convicted of a serious crime. You might also be feeling lost in a convoluted, broken system that doesn’t seem to be treating you fairly.
And you might even be feeling alone – like it’s you against the world. But you don’t have to be.
At Martine Law, we’re just as invested in your freedom as you are. We’ve seen the way that some people can be unfairly targeted by the criminal justice system, and we understand that overzealous prosecution and minimum legal penalties can sometimes do more harm than good.
We’re dedicated to keeping the government honest, and defending the rights of regular people from overreach.
We provide a wide range of criminal defense services, from DWI defense and expungements to litigation of felony charges.
What Our Clients Say
“From the moment I called Martine Law, I was given strength and guidance through a criminal case I thought was going to put me behind bars for a very long time. Instead, this firm stuck with me and guided me to an outcome I am so grateful for. Now, I'm not behind locked doors but home and with my family.”
Shawn S.
“I got into a lot of trouble a few years back. Xavier Martine was fantastic, both inside the courtroom and out. He kept me out of jail and allowed me a path to get my life back on track. Hopefully I’ll never need a criminal defense attorney again. But if I do, he’ll be the person I call!”
Tyler Z.
“Xavier and his team are always on top of their cases, working hard to get more information and keeping you up to date on your situation. His diverse experience in different areas of law allows him to really attack the legality of your case and give the best option to moving forward in the legal process. I really appreciate his dedication to fairness in the way the law is applied.”
Collin D
Our Process
STEP TWO:
We’ll discuss your situation and desired outcomes, and determine if we can help.
STEP THREE:
If we’re a good fit, we’ll fight to get you the best results possible!
Our Minnesota Criminal Process Timeline
Preparation for the legal process in Minnesota is important to your case.
The courts tend to move fast, so we have to move faster.
Our criminal defense lawyers at Martine Law will prep you on what to expect at each level and how we can leverage it to get the best outcome in your case.
- ARREST
- FIRST APPEARANCE IN CRIMINAL COURT (ARRAIGNMENT)
- OMNIBUS HEARING (PRE-TRIAL CONFERENCE)
- CRIMINAL TRIAL
- SENTENCING
You’re arrested, booked, fingerprinted, photographed, and jailed. Don’t worry – under Minnesota law, you must be brought before the judge within 36 hours of your arrest.
You will make your first appearance in court, where the judge will formally read your rights and the charges against you. You will have the opportunity to plead guilty, not guilty, or no contest to these charges.
Our criminal defense attorney will work with the prosecution to determine whether your case can proceed without a trial. This is where we will present our criminal defense strategy to get your charges reduced or dropped entirely. We’ll proceed to trial if we can’t agree on a resolution.
A jury trial doesn’t mean the end of your case. The prosecution is tasked with proving your charges beyond a reasonable doubt. Our criminal defense attorneys are well-versed in litigation, and we defend clients vigorously in court.
The judge will provide sentencing for your charges if you are found guilty at trial. Your criminal defense lawyer and the prosecution will provide insight into what fair sentencing would be.
The cost of a criminal conviction: Minnesota offense levels and penalties
Criminal offenses in Minnesota – whether minor or major – are nothing to bat an eye at.
You could face serious penalties and lose your family, career, and future. Criminal charges are subject to Minnesota’s stringent sentencing guidelines, and they could leave you serving time, paying fines, or both.
Here’s what you could face if convicted:
Petty misdemeanor
- Fine of up to $300
- Example: traffic violations
Misdemeanor
- 90 days in jail
- Fine of up to $1,000
- Examples: first-time DWI and simple assault
Gross misdemeanor
- One year in jail
- Fine of up to $3000
- Examples: second DWI and property theft of $500-$1,000
Felony
- One year to life in prison
These penalties are not all-encompassing.
Depending on your charges, criminal history, and the legal system, you could incur enhanced penalties, spend extra time in jail, and pay additional fines.
As your criminal defense attorney, we want to help.
At Martine Law, we will provide aggressive legal representation on your behalf.
Our sole purpose is to protect your freedom.
Criminal Defense FAQs
What should I do if I've been arrested or charged with a crime in Minnesota?
Be respectful and comply with law enforcement’s orders, but exercise your right to remain silent. Do not speak with law enforcement without a lawyer present. The most important thing to do is to call a lawyer immediately. An experienced criminal defense counsel can protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
What types of criminal cases does Martine Law handle in Minnesota?
Martine Law handles a wide range of criminal cases, including but not limited to DWI, drug offenses, assault, domestic violence, theft, sex crimes, murder, expungements, and more.
Can Martine Law help with expunging my criminal record in Minnesota?
Yes, Martine Law can guide you through the process of expunging your criminal record in Minnesota under certain circumstances. Expungement can help individuals move forward with their lives by sealing or erasing records of past criminal charges or convictions, removing barriers to employment, housing, and education.
Will I have to go to trial for my criminal case in Minnesota?
Not necessarily. Our first goal is always to examine the situation and determine if we can get your case dismissed. When dismissal is not possible, many criminal cases are resolved through negotiations with prosecutors, plea bargains, or alternative sentencing options. However, if going to trial is in your best interest, Martine Law will provide vigorous representation in court.
How do I choose the right criminal defense attorney for my case?
When choosing a criminal defense attorney, you need to find a lawyer with significant experience in the type of charge you’re facing, a track record of success, and an open communication style. Martine Law offers a team of dedicated attorneys with a proven record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients.
Areas Served
- St. Paul
- Minnetonka
- Bloomington
- St. Louis Park
- Brooklyn Park
- Maplewood
- Plymouth
- Richfield
- Lakeville
- Roseville
- Blaine
- Inver Grove Heights
- Maple Grove
- Brooklyn Center
- St. Cloud
- Shoreview
- Eagan
- Rosemount
- Burnsville
- Chanhassen
- Eden Prairie
- White Bear Lake
- Apple Valley
- Farmington
- Edina
- Lino Lakes
- Fridley
- Mankato
- Chaska
- Isanti
- Cambridge
- Litchfield
- Rochester
- Savage
- Elk River
- Big Lake
- Waseca
- Buffalo
- Champlin (Incl. Hassan Township)
- New Brighton
- Mounds View
- Crystal
- Vadnais Heights
- Golden Valley
- Annandale
- St. Michael
- North St. Paul
- Hastings
- Mendota Heights
- New Hope
- Little Canada
- West St. Paul
- Arden Hills
- Northfield
- Mound
- South St. Paul
- St. Anthony
- Sartell
- Minnetrista
- Hopkins
- Waite Park
- Robbinsdale
- Dayton
- Rogers
- Lake Elmo
- Coon Rapids
- Andover
- Carver
- Red Wing
- Hutchinson
- Faribault
- Shakopee
- Prior Lake
- Jordan
- Richmond
- Owatonna
Get Started on Your Criminal Defense Case Today
At Martine Law, we fight for just solutions that keep the criminal justice system honest. We’re dedicated to getting you the outcome you deserve, and we’re not afraid to take the gloves off if we need to. Contact us today to speak to an Intake Specialist. Spanish speaking staff available.