Shakopee

Criminal Defense Lawyers

Facing criminal charges? Contact Martine Law, our Shakopee, Minnesota criminal defense team. We advocate for our clients even when the odds seem stacked against you.

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Our Shakopee Criminal Defense Services

Martine Law assists people facing criminal charges and petty misdemeanor allegations. We review the charge, court paperwork and available evidence to identify the legal issues.

A criminal case can raise immediate questions about court dates, release conditions, work and family. Bring your court paperwork to an attorney so the discussion focuses on your actual charges and deadlines.

Start with the charges, the evidence and your next court date.

A defense consultation can address the prosecution’s allegations, the information still needed and the options that may be available. Ask about the scope of representation, fees and how case updates will be communicated.

Our role is to review the case and advocate for the client within the applicable law.

We provide a wide range of criminal defense services, from DWI defense to litigation of felony charges.

Our Shakopee Criminal Defense Case Results

Case results and client testimonials describe past matters handled by Martine Law. They are examples only, not every result the firm has obtained, and they depend on the specific facts and law of each case. Past results do not guarantee or predict a similar outcome in your case.

Our Shakopee Criminal Defense Process

STEP ONE:

Call (612) 294-0650 to speak to an intake specialist.

Your first conversation may be with a Director of Client Engagement (non-attorney), who helps with intake and scheduling and does not provide legal advice. An attorney evaluates your charges and legal options.

Phones and chat are answered 24/7, with AI covering when no staff is free.

Call (612) 294-0650

STEP TWO:

We’ll discuss your situation and desired outcomes, and determine if we can help.

STEP THREE:

If you retain the firm, your attorney will discuss the defense plan and next steps with you.

Our Shakopee Minnesota Criminal Process Timeline

The hearing sequence depends on the offense level and how the case develops. Use your court notice and your attorney’s instructions to confirm what is scheduled; this overview is not a case-specific calendar.

After an arrest without a warrant, a person who remains in custody must be brought before a judge without unnecessary delay. Rule 4.02 generally sets a 36-hour limit excluding the arrest day, Sundays and legal holidays, or as soon as a judge is available. A separate Rule 4.03 probable-cause determination is due within 48 hours, counting weekends and holidays. Ask counsel to review the actual arrest and detention timeline.

At the first appearance, the court addresses rights, the charges and applicable release issues. Plea timing depends on the offense level and hearing stage. Minnesota Rule 14 permits specified pleas, including guilty and not guilty; it does not provide a no-contest plea. Discuss any plea with your attorney before deciding.

In felony and gross misdemeanor cases, an omnibus hearing can address probable cause, evidence, discovery and constitutional or procedural issues. It may also include a pretrial conference about resolving the case. It is not simply a negotiation meeting. See Minnesota Rule 11.

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.

Sentencing can follow a guilty plea or a finding of guilt at trial. The court determines the sentence under the applicable law, with opportunities for sentencing statements and resolution of disputed issues. See Minnesota Rule 27.

The cost of a criminal conviction: Shakopee Minnesota offense levels and penalties

Minnesota distinguishes petty misdemeanors from criminal offenses. The categories below describe general classifications and maximum penalties, not a prediction of your sentence. The specific offense statute, facts and record matter.

Here’s what you could face if convicted:

Petty misdemeanor
  • Fine of up to $300
  • Not a crime; no jail sentence for the petty offense
Misdemeanor
  • Up to 90 days in jail
  • Fine of up to $1,000
  • The charged statute and aggravating facts determine the offense level
Gross misdemeanor
  • Up to 364 days in jail
  • Fine of up to $3000
  • The charged statute and prior record can affect classification
Felony
  • An offense for which imprisonment of one year or more may be imposed
  • The authorized maximum and actual sentence depend on the offense and applicable sentencing law

These categories are a starting point. The offense statute controls any specific punishment, and other financial obligations or consequences may apply. See section 609.02 for definitions and section 609.03 for punishment when not otherwise fixed.

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.

Shakopee Criminal Defense FAQs

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.

Martine Law handles a wide range of criminal cases, including but not limited to DWI, drug offenses, assault, domestic violence, theft, sex crimes, and more.

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.

Ask who will handle your case, their experience with the charged offense, the scope and cost of representation, and how you will receive updates. Bring your court papers and ask about the next deadline. Past results do not predict the outcome of your case.

Areas Served

Where are Shakopee criminal cases heard?

Scott County District Court is part of Minnesota’s First Judicial District. The Scott County Justice Center is at 200 Fourth Avenue West, Shakopee. The court’s guidance lists bail hearings at the Law Enforcement Center, 301 Fuller Street South. Follow your hearing notice for the building, courtroom and any remote-appearance instructions.

Check the official Scott County court guidance. Bring your citation or complaint, release order, hearing notice and court file number. For a DWI, also retain license-revocation and vehicle-related notices because those may involve separate proceedings.

Read the official arrest and detention rules and Minnesota plea rules.

Criminal defense services are provided by Martine Law PLLC.

Get Started on Your Shakopee Criminal Defense Case Today

Experience the difference with our expert criminal defense attorneys. We are committed to protecting your rights and freedom. Defending DWI, drug, violent crime and other charges. Contact us for a consultation today.

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