What Should I Do If I’m Charged with Interference with Privacy in Stillwater or Washington County?
Being charged with Interference with Privacy in Stillwater or Washington County can be overwhelming, and the potential consequences can be severe. A conviction on this charge can lead to jail time, hefty fines, and a lasting impact on your personal and professional life. At Jack Rice Defense, we focus upon defending clients against serious charges like this, and we are committed to protecting your rights every step of the way. We offer free, confidential consultations to discuss your case. Call us at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339 to speak with an experienced attorney today.
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What is Interference with Privacy?
Under Minnesota Statutes Section 609.746, Interference with Privacy involves actions that violate another person’s privacy without their consent. In Washington County, like in other parts of Minnesota, these actions can result in either a gross misdemeanor or felony charge, depending on the facts of your case.
Gross Misdemeanor Charges
If you engage in any of the following actions, you could face a gross misdemeanor charge for Interference with Privacy:
Peeping or Staring into Windows: If you unlawfully enter someone’s property and observe or stare through a window into their home or dwelling with the intent to invade their privacy, this could result in a gross misdemeanor charge.
Using Devices to Record or Observe: If you enter someone’s property and secretly use a device (such as a camera, microphone, or other recording equipment) to capture or observe private activities inside their home or through a window, you could be charged under this statute.
Peeping into Private Spaces with a Reasonable Expectation of Privacy: If you secretly observe areas where a person has a reasonable expectation of privacy (such as a bathroom, hotel room, or changing room), and that person may be exposing intimate parts of their body, you could face criminal charges.
Penalties for Gross Misdemeanor Interference with Privacy
If you are convicted of gross misdemeanor interference with privacy in Washington County, you could face:
Up to 1 year in jail
A fine of up to $3,000, or both.
Felony Charges
In certain cases, Interference with Privacy can escalate to a felony charge, including:
Prior Convictions: If you have a previous conviction for Interference with Privacy or a related offense, such as stalking (Minnesota Statutes Section 609.749), and you commit a similar offense again, you could face felony charges.
Victim is a Minor: If the victim of your actions is under the age of 18, and you knew or should have known the person was a minor, the offense could be charged as a felony.
Penalties for Felony Interference with Privacy
A felony conviction for Interference with Privacy carries much harsher penalties, including:
Up to 2 years in prison
A fine of up to $5,000, or both.
“This kind of a charge is too important to try and handle alone.”
Why You Need Experienced Legal Representation
A charge of Interference with Privacy is serious, and the consequences of a conviction can affect your life in profound ways. A conviction could damage your reputation, harm your employment prospects, and limit your future opportunities. Whether you’re facing a gross misdemeanor or felony charge in Stillwater or anywhere in Washington County, having an experienced attorney by your side is crucial.
At Jack Rice Defense, we have the knowledge and experience to thoroughly investigate your case, challenge the evidence, and fight for the best possible outcome. Our team is dedicated to providing aggressive and strategic defense for our clients. We have successfully represented clients in Washington County and throughout Minnesota, and we are here to protect your rights and your future.
If you or a loved one has been charged with Interference with Privacy in Stillwater or anywhere in Washington County, we’re ready to help. Contact us today at 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339 for a free consultation. We will carefully review your case, explain your options, and work tirelessly to defend you. Don’t face these serious charges alone—let the experienced attorneys at Jack Rice Defense provide the legal support you need during this challenging time.