Understanding Domestic Violence Charges in Minnesota
Facing a domestic violence charge in Minnesota is overwhelming. You may feel shocked, confused, or even betrayed. But what you do next will shape the outcome of your case and your future.
Domestic violence in Minnesota can include physical harm, threats, harassment, or interference with personal liberty. You may be charged with domestic assault, domestic abuse, or related offenses under Minnesota Statutes § 518B.01 and § 609.2242.
This blog will help you understand what steps to take immediately after being charged and how to protect your rights during the legal process.
1. Do Not Contact the Alleged Victim
This is the most critical first step.
If a no-contact order or Order for Protection (OFP) is issued, you must not contact the alleged victim under any circumstance. Even a friendly text or indirect message through a friend could result in additional criminal charges and jail time.
If you’re unsure whether a no-contact order applies to you, your attorney can clarify.
Learn more: How No Contact Orders Work in Domestic Cases in MN
2. Follow All Court Orders Strictly
After your arrest, you may be given release conditions that could include:
- Staying away from your home
- Abstaining from alcohol
- Checking in regularly with pretrial services
- Attending counseling or treatment
Violating these conditions, even by accident, can lead to revocation of release and additional charges.
3. Hire an Experienced Criminal Defense Attorney
A domestic violence conviction can affect your:
- Career and background checks
- Custody and parenting time rights
- Housing options
- Gun ownership
- Immigration status
You should not try to fight these charges alone. A defense attorney at Martine Law will help you:
- Understand your charges
- Evaluate the evidence
- Build a strong defense
- Negotiate with prosecutors
- Represent you in court
We have helped numerous Minnesotans protect their rights and avoid life-altering consequences.
4. Preserve Evidence That Supports Your Case
If there are texts, emails, social media messages, videos, or witnesses that can help your side of the story—save them immediately. Forward them to your lawyer, not to others.
Sometimes, what appears to be a domestic violence incident was actually mutual conflict, self-defense, or a false accusation.
5. Understand the Consequences You’re Facing
Domestic assault charges in Minnesota range from misdemeanors to felonies depending on:
- The severity of injury
- Use of a weapon
- Prior offenses
- Violation of a protective order
Even a first-time conviction can lead to:
- Jail time
- Mandatory counseling
- Permanent criminal record
- Loss of firearms
Learn more: What Is Considered Domestic Assault in Minnesota?
6. Comply With the Alcohol or Domestic Abuse Assessment
The court may order you to undergo a chemical dependency evaluation or domestic abuse assessment. This is not optional.
Completing the assessment early—and following any recommended treatment—can show the court you’re serious about improving your situation. It may also help your attorney negotiate a favorable outcome.
7. Prepare for Your First Court Appearance
Your arraignment is your first formal court hearing. You will be informed of your charges, bail may be addressed, and you will enter a plea.
You should never plead guilty without speaking to a lawyer. Even if you think “it’s no big deal,” a guilty plea can have long-term consequences that are hard to undo.
8. Do Not Discuss Your Case Publicly or on Social Media
Anything you say can and will be used against you. That includes posts on:
- TikTok
- Snapchat
- Texts or private messages
Refrain from posting anything that references your case, your ex, or the alleged incident.
Next Steps: How Martine Law Can Help You
If you’ve been charged with domestic violence in Minnesota, your next moves matter. At Martine Law, we don’t just defend you, we guide you through the entire legal process with clarity, empathy, and strength.
We help with:
- Emergency legal protection
- Bail and release negotiations
- Challenging no-contact orders
- Trial strategy and representation
- Keeping your record clean
Schedule your consultation now. We’re here 24/7.