Getting a call that your child has been in a fight at school is every parent’s nightmare. What many don’t realize is that school fights in Minnesota can lead to juvenile assault charges—with real legal consequences that go beyond school discipline. If your child is accused of assault in Minnesota, here’s what you need to know.
How Minnesota defines juvenile assault
In Minnesota, assault is defined as:
- Causing or attempting to cause bodily harm to another person, or
- Acting in a way that causes someone to fear immediate harm.
This definition applies even to juveniles. A simple punch, shove, or threat during a school fight can result in a criminal charge. (See Minn. Stat. § 609.224).
What happens when a juvenile is accused of assault?
Juvenile cases are handled in juvenile court, which focuses more on rehabilitation than punishment. Still, consequences can be serious.
Possible outcomes include:
- Diversion programs (counseling, community service, or conflict resolution programs)
- Probation with strict conditions
- Restitution for medical or property damage
- Out-of-home placement in rare cases involving repeated or severe offenses
For more serious cases—such as assaults causing serious injury or involving weapons—a juvenile may even face adult certification and be tried as an adult.
School discipline vs. criminal charges
It’s important for parents to understand the difference between school consequences and court consequences:
- School consequences: suspension, expulsion, loss of extracurricular activities, behavior plans
- Criminal consequences: handled by juvenile court, including probation, diversion, or detention
A child can face both at the same time. Contact Martine Law today.
Common factors in school assault cases
- Bullying or retaliation: Many fights begin after ongoing harassment or conflict.
- Peer pressure: Teens sometimes fight to protect their reputation or under pressure from others.
- Misunderstandings: What starts as horseplay can be viewed as an assault if it gets out of hand.
- Self-defense: If your child was protecting themselves, this may be a valid legal defense.
What parents should do if their child is accused
- Stay calm and gather facts
Talk to your child about what happened, and request detailed reports from the school. - Do not let your child be questioned without an attorney
Juveniles have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. - Contact a Minnesota juvenile defense lawyer immediately
Early legal intervention can make the difference between a diversion program and a formal court record. - Encourage accountability
Courts often look favorably on youths who accept responsibility and participate in counseling or anger management. - Focus on long-term impact
Even juvenile records can sometimes affect college, scholarships, and employment if not handled properly.
Can a juvenile assault record be cleared?
Yes. In Minnesota, many juvenile records can be sealed or expunged, but it’s not automatic. A lawyer can help you petition the court for expungement once your child has completed their sentence or diversion program.
Key takeaways
- School fights in Minnesota can lead to juvenile assault charges, not just school discipline.
- Juvenile court emphasizes rehabilitation, but the consequences can still be serious.
- Parents should seek legal representation right away to protect their child’s future.
- Diversion and expungement are possible, but require proactive steps.
At Martine Law, we know how stressful it is when your child is facing assault charges. Our team has experience in Minnesota juvenile court and will fight to protect your child’s future while guiding your family through the process with care and respect.