Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Brooklyn Park, MN

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota?

  The non-emergency contact number for the Brooklyn Park Police Department is 763-493-8222.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota?

  You may get a copy of a police report for incidents related to your case at https://brooklynparkmn.justfoia.com/publicportal/home/newrequest.

• How common is crime in Brooklyn Park?

  Brooklyn Park has a crime rate of 35 per 1,000 residents, which is higher than the average crime rate of communities in America that are similar in size. The most common crime in the metro is theft, with a rate of 9.133 per 1,000 residents, and vandalism, with a rate of 6.531. Other common crimes include burglary, robbery, assault, and rape.

• What are Brooklyn Park’s most dangerous neighborhoods?

  According to local law enforcement reports for the last five years, the neighborhoods in Brooklyn Park with the highest crime rates are Birch Grove, Lakeland Park, Park Center, Shingle Creek, Hartkopf, and Edinburgh. Meanwhile, the safest neighborhoods in the metro include River North, River Park, River View, Founders, Pinebrook, and Trinity Gardens.

• How does Brooklyn Park punish misdemeanor offenses?

  Individuals in Brooklyn Park convicted of a misdemeanor may face up to 90 days in jail, a maximum fine of $1000, and one year or more of probation. Depending on the charge, they may also be subject to registration requirements, license ramifications, and treatment programs. Common misdemeanor offenses include domestic assault, DWI, and reckless or careless driving.

• What are the long-term consequences of domestic abuse charges in Brooklyn Park?

  In Brooklyn Park, individuals convicted of domestic abuse or assault may face collateral consequences such as the loss of their job or professional license, inability to rent or lease a home, and mandatory anger management classes. In cases of felony domestic abuse, they may be given a lifetime ban on the possession of firearms and ammunition.

• How are criminal records in Brooklyn Park expunged?

  Individuals in Brooklyn Park who wish to get their criminal record expunged must file a Petition for Expungement in Hennepin County. They must serve the petition to all entities and individuals involved in their case, including the original prosecutor, arresting agency, the court administrator’s office, the county sheriff, and the Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Afterward, a hearing is conducted and the judge decides whether or not to grant the request.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.