When you are accused of a violent offense, fast and experienced legal defense is critical. Martine Law works aggressively to secure legal protection for your rights, record, and freedom.
Violent Felony Lawyer in Minnesota
State Bar Licensed
Judicial Insight
6+
Years Experience
24/7
Available
4,000+
Cases Handled
MINNESOTA LAW
Classification of Charges for Violent Crimes
Minnesota la w defines violent offenses based on the nature of harm, the use of force, and the specific circumstances of each incident.
| Charge | Statute | What It Covers | Max Sentence | Classification |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Degree Murder | § 609.185 | Premeditated killing or felony murder | Life imprisonment | Felony |
| Second-Degree Murder | § 609.19 | Intentional killing without premeditation | 40 yrs / $40k | Felony |
| First-Degree Manslaughter | § 609.20 | Heat of passion killing or reckless conduct | 15 yrs / $30k | Felony |
| First-Degree Assault | § 609.221 | Great bodily harm or deadly force | 20 yrs / $30k | Felony |
| Kidnapping | § 609.25 | Unlawful confinement or transportation of a person | 20 yrs / $35k | Felony |
| Kidnapping | § 609.25 | Unlawful confinement or transportation of a person | 20 yrs / $35k | Felony |
| First-Degree Robbery | § 609.245 | Robbery involving a dangerous weapon or bodily harm | 20 yrs / $35k | Felony |
| Criminal Sexual Conduct (1st) | § 609.342 | Sexual assault with force or under aggravated circumstances | 30 yrs / $40k | Felony |
Factors That Can Increase Penalties
- Prior violent or felony criminal history
- Use or display of a deadly weapon
- The victim suffered a serious or permanent injury
- The offense occurred near a school or protected location
- The victim was a minor, elderly, or otherwise vulnerable
- Multiple offenses or repeated conduct
- Violation of an existing restraining order
Impact That Extends Beyond Jail Time
- Permanent felony record affecting jobs and housing
- Loss of firearm rights under state and federal law
- Deportation risk or visa denial for non-citizens
- Suspension or revocation of professional licenses
- Mandatory sex offender registration in some cases
- Court-ordered supervision after release
- Reduced access to public benefits and housing
NOTE: Final sentencing depends on the severity of the offense and criminal history. A violent felony lawyer can review your record and work toward reduced charges where applicable.
DEFENSE STRATEGIES
How Our Violent Crimes Attorneys Build Your Defense
Martine Law examines the evidence early and builds a detailed defense grounded in the facts of your case.
Self-Defense (Minn. Stat. § 609.06)
You had the legal right to protect yourself from immediate harm. We present your account clearly and show that your response was lawful under state law.
Defense of Others
Intervening to protect another person is legally recognized in Minnesota. We document the incident to show that your actions were justified and proportionate.
Lack of Criminal Intent
Many violent criminal charges require proof of specific intent. We challenge the prosecution when evidence of intent is missing, unclear, or mischaracterized.
Fabricated or Unreliable Accusations
False allegations do arise from personal disputes. We examine prior statements, relationships, and motives to identify inconsistencies in the complaint.
Unlawful Search or Stop
Evidence gathered through an illegal search cannot be used against you. We file suppression motions when law enforcement violates your constitutional rights.
Witness Credibility Challenges
We analyze sightlines, prior statements, and personal connections to undermine witness testimony that appears biased or factually unsupported.
Mistaken Identity
Eyewitness identification is not always reliable. We review photo arrays, lineup procedures, and surveillance footage to challenge misidentification.
Insufficient Evidence
The prosecution must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. We identify weaknesses in police reports, forensic analysis, and the overall case presented.
WHY CHOOSE US
What Sets Our Violent Crimes Lawyers Apart
Statewide Courtroom Experience
Regular appearances in Hennepin, Ramsey, Dakota, Anoka, and courts throughout the state.
Deep Judicial Insight
Our attorneys understand how courts evaluate violent crimes and use that insight to strengthen your defense.
Evidence-First Defense
We move quickly to preserve surveillance footage, bodycam recordings, and forensic evidence before it is lost.
Responsive Legal Support
Our team is reachable on nights, weekends, and holidays, especially when urgent legal questions cannot wait.
Accused of violent crimes? Talk to a defense attorney now. >
WHAT HAPPENS NEXT
What to Expect at Each Stage of Your Case in Court
Learn how criminal cases typically move through the state’s court system, from arrest and hearings to negotiations, trial preparation, and final resolution.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a crime a violent offense in Minnesota?
State law generally classifies a crime as a violent crime when it involves the use of force, threat of serious harm, or a dangerous weapon causing physical injury to another person.
Can a violent crime charge be reduced to a lesser offense?
Charge reductions are possible in some cases, depending on the evidence, prior record, and the specific facts involved. An attorney for violent crimes can assess which options are realistically available.
Will I go to prison if charged with a major violent crime?
Not automatically. Outcomes depend on the offense, criminal history, and defense strategy. Many cases are resolved before trial through negotiation or pre-trial motions.
How long does a violent criminal case take to resolve?
Most felony cases take six months to over a year, depending on case complexity, county court volume, and whether the matter proceeds to trial or resolves earlier.
Can prior convictions affect my current violent felony charge?
Yes. Prior convictions, especially violent offenses, can increase sentencing ranges. A violent felony lawyer can review your record and contest inaccuracies where possible.
OTHER DEFENSE AREAS
Additional Criminal Defense Practice Areas We Handle
White Collar Related Felonies
Defense for fraud, embezzlement, forgery, bribery, and other financial felony allegations.
Felonies Against the State
Defense for felony charges involving government authority, public safety, official proceedings, or state interests.
Drug-Related Felonies
Defense for felony drug charges involving possession, distribution, trafficking, manufacturing, or controlled substances.
Property Related Felonies
Defense for theft, burglary, fraud, property damage, and other felony property crime allegations.
DON’T DELAY. ACT FAST.
Speak With a Violent Felony Lawyer in Minnesota Today
Evidence can disappear and legal options may narrow quickly. Speak with an attorney now to protect your rights and your future.