What are the Different Levels of Criminal Offenses in Minnesota?
Minnesota has different levels of offenses and sentences that fall within those levels of offenses. These could be everything from simple traffic tickets with the fines that come with them to murder with a life sentence with no possibility of parole. If you are facing serious criminal charges in Minnesota, make sure that you sit down with an experienced Minnesota criminal defense attorney.
“Knowing what level of offense you face is critical because it is all about potential exposure.”
What are the Different Levels of Offenses?
There are four different levels of offenses that you might face in the event that you come into contact with the police and receive either a summons/ticket or are charged with a crime. These four levels include:
Felony: "Felony" means a crime for which a sentence of imprisonment for more than one year may be imposed.
Gross misdemeanor: "Gross misdemeanor" means any crime which is not a felony or misdemeanor. The maximum fine which may be imposed for a gross misdemeanor is $3,000. A sentence of not more than one year may be imposed.
Misdemeanor: "Misdemeanor" means a crime for which a sentence of not more than 90 days or a fine of not more than $1,000, or both, may be imposed.
Petty misdemeanor: "Petty misdemeanor" means a petty offense which is prohibited by statute, which does not constitute a crime and for which a fine of not more than $300 may be imposed.
“If you remember anything, remember this: When the police want you, the government wants you, don’t go in alone.”
If you are facing any charges in Minnesota, it is important to understand the ramifications. This might be something as simple as a traffic ticket. At the same time, some can’t simply be dealt with by writing a check. Some can come with real jail or even prison time as well as massive fines. It is important to know where you stand. Sitting down with an experienced Minnesota criminal defense attorney may be your best next step.
Jack Rice is a nationally known criminal defense attorney. He is a former prosecutor, a former CIA Officer and a Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist. He is also the Founder of Jack Rice Defense, a criminal defense firm based in St. Paul, Minnesota. Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation or call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339. When your life in on the line, Jack Rice Defense.