Remember the Shield or Possible Defenses in Criminal Cases in St. Paul and Ramsey County.

Facing criminal charges in St. Paul and Ramsey County can be an overwhelming experience. If you or a loved one are accused of a crime, it is essential to understand the potential defenses available to you. In other words, think of the possible uses of a legal shield. At Jack Rice Defense, we are committed to protecting your rights and providing a strong legal strategy tailored to your case. Below are some of the most common criminal defenses that may apply to your situation. Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.

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1. Lack of Evidence and Burden of Proof

One of the strongest defenses in a criminal case is the lack of evidence. The prosecution has the burden of proof and they must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If there is insufficient evidence to support the charges, Jack Rice Defense may be able to get the case dismissed or negotiate a favorable plea agreement.

2. Lack of Intent or Accidental

Criminal convictions often require proof of intent. If you did not knowingly commit the crime, your attorney may argue that there was no criminal intent. Sometimes, if something was simply an accident, that is enough. Prosecutors must then provide evidence that you acted deliberately and with full awareness of the consequences, which can be difficult to establish.

Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339.

Affirmative Criminal Defense

An affirmative defense does not deny that a crime occurred but instead argues that you were not responsible for it. This may include an alibi, where you provide evidence that you were elsewhere at the time of the crime. Witness testimony, surveillance footage, or other forms of proof can support this defense.

1. Coercion and Duress

If you were forced to commit a crime under threat of harm to yourself or a loved one, you may have a valid coercion and duress defense. This does not require that physical harm actually occurred—just the credible threat of unlawful force can be enough to establish duress.

2. Entrapment

Entrapment occurs when law enforcement officers induce someone to commit a crime they would not have otherwise committed. If you were pressured or tricked into illegal activity by police or other authorities, this could be a valid defense. This can happen in prostitution, child solicitation , and sex trafficking cases.

3. Abandonment and Withdrawal

If you initially intended to participate in a crime but withdrew before it was committed, you might be able to use this defense. It is especially strong if you took steps to prevent the crime, such as notifying law enforcement before it occurred. While this isn’t common, it can happen in conspiracy cases.

4. Self-Defense

Self-defense is a legal justification for using force to protect yourself, your property, or others from harm. If you were attacked or felt an imminent threat of bodily harm, your actions might be legally justified under Minnesota law. These happen more in assault related cases. Remember, this can be self-defense or it can apply to somebody else you were trying to protect.

5. Statute of Limitations

Criminal charges must be filed within a specific time frame. If prosecutors attempt to charge you after the statute of limitations has expired, your attorney can seek to have the case dismissed. Sometimes, this can happen because of a failure to prosecute.

6. The Insanity Defense

Although often depicted in media, the insanity defense is rarely used and even less frequently successful. It requires proving that you suffered from a severe mental disorder that prevented you from understanding your actions or distinguishing right from wrong. This defense is complex and requires substantial medical evidence. There is sometimes an alternative to this which is a competency question. This is more complicated and certainly more nuanced.

“Applying a defense can be complicated and experience may be critical to make it work.”

Why You Need an Experienced Defense Attorney

Every criminal case is unique, and selecting the right defense strategy is crucial. An experienced lawyer can evaluate the evidence, identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, and develop the most effective legal strategy for you.

If you are facing serious criminal charges in St. Paul or Ramsey County, do not navigate the legal system alone. Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free, confidential consultation at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339. When your job, career, reputation, family, and future are on the line, trust Jack Rice Defense to stand by your side.