Felony Criminal Defense Attorney in St. Paul
Serious Felony Charges Demand Serious Representation
A felony accusation in Minnesota puts almost everything at risk. Your freedom, your job, your ability to support your family, and your future opportunities can all be affected by what happens in the next few months. It is common to feel overwhelmed, ashamed, or unsure of what to do.
At Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC, we focus on guiding people through these moments with steady, informed counsel. Our attorneys have more than 70 years of combined legal experience, and we have built our practice around criminal defense in South St. Paul and the surrounding area. We know how felony cases are charged, negotiated, and resolved in this part of Minnesota, and we work to protect both your rights and your long term quality of life.
Protect your rights with a firm that has spent decades in the Ramsey County courtrooms. Call (651) 413-9004 or contact Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC online for a free consultation. Let our over 50 years of collective experience guide you through the felony process and toward the best possible outcome.
Types Of Felony Cases We Handle in St. Paul
Felony charges in Minnesota cover a wide range of situations, and each brings its own set of risks and considerations. At Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC, we represent people facing many different kinds of felony accusations that arise in St. Paul and nearby communities, including:
- Violent offense cases that may involve allegations such as assault or other crimes where physical harm is claimed.
- Property and financial crime charges, such as burglary or fraud related allegations.
- Drug related felonies and felony level driving offenses under Minnesota law.
Across all of these categories, we tailor our approach to the unique combination of facts, legal issues, and long term concerns present in your case.
Understanding Felony Laws in Minnesota
In Minnesota, a felony is defined as any crime for which the maximum penalty includes more than one year in prison. These are the most serious offenses in the state and are governed by a complex set of statutes and the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines.
Unlike some states that use "classes" (e.g., Class A, B, C), Minnesota generally classifies felonies by the specific offense and assigns them a "severity level" on the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines Grid. These guidelines have undergone a comprehensive review to ensure proportionality in sentencing.
- Low-Level Felonies (Severity Levels 1-2): These include offenses like fifth-degree drug possession or certain non-violent property crimes. While they carry the "felony" label, they often result in "stayed" sentences (probation) for first-time offenders.
- Mid-Level Felonies (Severity Levels 3-7): This range includes second-degree burglary, third-degree assault, and larger-scale drug distribution. These carry a much higher risk of executed prison time.
- High-Level Felonies (Severity Levels 8-11): These are the most serious crimes, including first-degree assault, kidnapping, and various degrees of homicide. Conviction at this level almost always results in a mandatory prison sentence.
- First-Degree Murder: This is the only offense in Minnesota that carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment.
The actual sentence you face is determined by a combination of the offense severity level and your criminal history score. As a seasoned St. Paul felony defense lawyer, we meticulously analyze your history to ensure the state is not "over-scoring" you, which could unfairly increase your potential prison stay.
Why Felony Charges Need Local Help
Felony charges in Minnesota carry far greater consequences than misdemeanors, including harsher penalties, complex statutes, and strict procedural rules. In St. Paul, felony cases move through Ramsey County District Court, where local rules and scheduling practices play a significant role. Navigating this process without experienced guidance can be overwhelming and risky.
Attorneys with long-standing experience in Minnesota courts understand how local prosecutors build felony cases and how judges tend to handle bail, release conditions, and sentencing. That familiarity allows them to anticipate challenges, focus on what matters most, and prepare clients for each stage of the case with fewer surprises.
A felony conviction can have lasting effects on employment, licensing, housing, and immigration status within the community. Local defense counsel consider not only the immediate charge, but also the long-term impact of each decision. That perspective helps clients make informed choices with a clear understanding of what to realistically expect.
Your freedom and your future are at stake. Reach out to a premier St. Paul felony defense lawyer at Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC at (651) 413-9004 or through our contact form.
What Sets Us Apart
Our team of skilled and understanding professionals proudly provides comprehensive and efficient services for all Clients.
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Serving St. Paul Since 1948
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Over 50 Years of Collective Experience
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Tens of Thousands of People Helped
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Hundreds of Jury Trials Handled
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Highly Involved in the Local Legal Community
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Prepare Every Case for Trial
What To Do After A Felony Arrest
The hours and days after an arrest or a charge can feel chaotic. You may be released with paperwork showing a court date in St. Paul, or you might still be in custody waiting to see a judge. Either way, the choices you make now can affect the options available later in your case.
Here are practical steps to take after a felony arrest:
- Stay within the conditions of your release, such as no contact orders or restrictions listed in your documents.
- Avoid discussing the facts of the case with law enforcement or anyone else without first talking to an attorney.
- Gather any paperwork you received, including citations, charging documents, or court notices, and keep them together.
- Write down what you remember about what happened and any contact you had with police, while the details are still fresh.
- Contact a felony attorney as soon as you can, so there is time to review your situation before key hearings.
In Minnesota felony matters, courts often schedule an initial appearance or arraignment soon after charges are filed. At that hearing, the judge may address bail, conditions of release, and scheduling. When our firm becomes involved early, we can review the paperwork with you, help you understand the possible consequences, and start planning how to approach those first court dates.
We know that every person who comes to us has a life outside the charges. Our goal is to explain your options clearly, help you avoid missteps, and begin building a defense that reflects your circumstances and priorities.
How Our Attorneys Defend Felony Cases
Defending a felony case begins with understanding the full picture. When someone contacts our firm, we listen carefully, review court documents and police reports, and learn about their background, work, family responsibilities, and long-term goals. These personal details often influence legal options and help shape a defense strategy that fits the individual, not just the charge.
Our attorneys closely examine how the case was built, including police conduct, searches, statements, and compliance with Minnesota law. Drawing on decades of experience in the region, we identify weaknesses or procedural issues that may affect negotiations or trial preparation. This careful analysis helps us determine where the prosecution’s case can be challenged or limited.
We tailor our approach to each case. Some matters require aggressive trial preparation, while others benefit from exploring reduced charges or alternative resolutions. When additional expertise is needed, we draw on established professional resources. Throughout the process, we focus on clear communication, keeping clients informed and involved from the first court appearance through final resolution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I go to jail for my felony charge?
Not every felony case results in jail or prison time, but incarceration is a possibility. The outcome depends on the charge, your history, the facts, and Minnesota sentencing rules. We review those factors with you and work to pursue options that limit custody whenever the circumstances allow.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time felony?
A first-time felony can still bring serious penalties and a permanent record. Having an attorney helps you understand the risks, protect your rights, and avoid choices that may affect work, housing, or immigration. Our team can explain how Minnesota treats first offenses and discuss available paths.
How will your attorneys keep me informed?
We make communication a core part of our work. Our attorneys explain each stage of your case, review important decisions with you, and answer your questions in plain language. You can expect updates about court dates, negotiations, and strategy so you are not left guessing about what comes next.
How quickly should I contact a felony attorney?
It is generally best to contact an attorney as soon as you learn about an arrest, charge, or investigation. Early involvement gives us more time to review documents, prepare for hearings, and address issues that might affect release conditions or evidence. Acting promptly can help protect important options.
What should I bring to our first meeting?
Bring any papers related to the case, such as citations, complaints, or court notices, along with your photo ID. It can also help to write down questions and a brief timeline of events. We will review these materials with you and talk through what they mean for your situation.
What To Expect When You Contact Us
Reaching out to a law firm about a felony charge can feel intimidating, especially if you have never been through the criminal system before. Our aim is to make that first step as clear and manageable as possible. When you call Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC, you can expect to speak with someone who understands that you may be worried, confused, or even in shock.
During the initial conversation, we gather basic information about the accusation, where the case is pending, and any upcoming court dates in St. Paul or surrounding counties. If we move forward together, our attorneys review the available documents and outline the next steps in the process. Our communication is direct and respectful. We do not make promises about specific results, but we do commit to keeping you informed, answering your questions, and working to protect your future.
To talk with a felony attorney in St. Paul about a pending charge, call (651) 413-9004.
