Misdemeanor Attorney in St. Paul
Facing A Misdemeanor Charge In This Area? Start Your Defense Now
A misdemeanor charge in or around St. Paul can feel overwhelming, especially if this is your first contact with the criminal system. You may be worried about court, your record, and how this will affect your job or your family. You do not have to sort through all of this on your own.
Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC defends people charged with misdemeanors in St. Paul and the surrounding communities. Our attorneys have more than 70 years of combined legal experience in Minnesota and Wisconsin courts, and we use that background to guide clients through every step of the process. We focus on protecting your future, not just getting through the next court date.
If you are unsure what your charge means or what to do before your first appearance, we can walk you through your options and next steps. You can contact our misdemeanor attorneys in St. Paul at (651) 413-9004 to talk about your situation and how we may be able to help.
Common Misdemeanor Charges In This Area
We regularly defend clients facing misdemeanor level allegations such as:
- Driving offenses
- Disorderly conduct
- Lower level theft cases
- Certain assault or domestic related charges
Each type of offense brings its own rules and potential penalties under Minnesota law. The consequences can vary further based on your prior record and whether the prosecutor files additional counts or enhancements.
If your citation or complaint lists a statute number you do not recognize, we can explain what that charge means, what the court generally considers, and what potential outcomes might look like. Our experience with misdemeanor cases in the St. Paul area allows us to put your specific situation into context and to start planning an approach that fits your circumstances.
Understanding Misdemeanor Classifications in Minnesota
Minnesota law categorizes non-felony offenses into three distinct levels. The penalties for these offenses remain a serious threat to your liberty and financial stability. Understanding which level you are facing is the first step in building your defense with a St. Paul misdemeanor lawyer.
Petty Misdemeanors
Technically, a petty misdemeanor is "not a crime" under Minnesota Statute § 609.02, as it does not carry the possibility of jail time. However, it is still a prohibited act that appears on your record.
- Maximum Penalty: A fine of up to $300.
- Common Examples: Minor traffic violations, possession of a small amount of marijuana (decriminalized but still cited), and certain city ordinance violations.
Misdemeanors
A misdemeanor is a formal criminal offense. A conviction means you have a criminal record that will show up on standard background checks.
- Maximum Penalty: Up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.
- Common Examples: First-time DWI, simple assault (fifth-degree), disorderly conduct, and theft of property valued under $500.
Gross Misdemeanors
Gross misdemeanors are the most severe level of non-felony offenses in Minnesota, sitting just below a felony. These charges often involve "targeted" offenses or repeat behavior.
- Maximum Penalty: Up to 364 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $3,000. (Note: As of recent legislative changes, the "one-year" maximum was adjusted to 364 days to protect non-citizens from certain federal immigration consequences).
- Common Examples: Second-time DWI within 10 years, domestic assault, stalking, and theft of property valued between $500 and $1,000.
Why Hire Our Misdemeanor Lawyers In St. Paul
Misdemeanor charges are often dismissed as minor, but their consequences can be long-lasting. Convictions may appear on background checks, affect professional licenses, or create immigration issues. In Minnesota, even low-level offenses can impact employment, housing, education, and family life. Our role is to address not only the charge itself, but also the real-world effects it may have on your future.
At Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC, our attorneys bring more than seventy years of combined criminal defense experience to misdemeanor cases. We regularly practice in St. Paul, South St. Paul, and throughout Ramsey County District Court. This local knowledge helps us evaluate charging decisions, spot legal issues early, and anticipate how prosecutors may handle negotiations and court proceedings.
We take a personalized, client-focused approach rather than using a one-size-fits-all strategy. Our team learns your background, goals, and concerns, reviews the evidence carefully, and explains your options in clear terms. Clients value our communication, preparation, and honesty, as well as the support we provide while guiding them through a stressful and unfamiliar legal process.
Your reputation is too valuable to leave to chance. Reach out to the St. Paul misdemeanor lawyers at Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC at (651) 413-9004 or through our online contact form. We offer free consultations and the trial-tested advocacy you need to protect your record.
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 Expect In St. Paul Courts
Misdemeanor cases often start with a citation or an arrest, followed by a first appearance. If your case is filed in Ramsey County District Court in St. Paul, that hearing usually includes an explanation of the charge and potential penalties, and the court may ask for a plea of guilty or not guilty. It is common for people to feel pressured to make quick decisions at this early stage.
Before and after that first appearance, we review the complaint, police reports, and any available video or other evidence. We look at how the stop, search, or investigation occurred and consider whether there may be legal issues to raise. We also discuss your priorities, such as avoiding jail, limiting fines, or reducing long term record consequences.
As the case moves forward, there may be pretrial conferences or motion hearings where attorneys discuss evidence and possible resolutions. Our role includes speaking with prosecutors, advocating for reductions or alternative outcomes where appropriate, and preparing cases for trial when that is the right path. Throughout this process, we work to explain what each hearing means and what choices you may have at that point in time.
How We Approach Your Misdemeanor Defense in St. Paul
Every misdemeanor case involves a unique set of facts, people, and priorities. Our defense approach starts with careful listening. We talk with you about what happened from your perspective, your history, and what you hope to achieve, whether that is avoiding a conviction, minimizing penalties, or addressing an underlying issue that contributed to the charge.
We then obtain and study the available evidence, including reports, statements, and other materials that may exist. Our attorneys consider legal defenses, factual disputes, and practical options. Depending on the case, this may include looking at whether the state can prove each element of the offense, whether your rights were respected during the stop or arrest, and whether diversion programs or stays of adjudication may be possible under Minnesota law.
Our goal is to align your defense strategy with what matters most to you. For some clients, that means focusing on employment or professional licensing concerns. For others, immigration status, housing, or family court issues may be more pressing. We use our decades of experience and our understanding of how local courts operate to evaluate which paths may best protect your future.
We also understand that you may be unsure what to do in the days after being charged. Here are practical steps to protect yourself after a misdemeanor arrest or citation:
- Avoid discussing the incident with law enforcement or others without first speaking to an attorney.
- Keep copies of your citation, complaint, and any paperwork that lists your court date and location.
- Write down what you remember about the events while details are still fresh.
- Do not ignore court notices and make sure your address and contact information are current with the court.
- Contact our team as soon as you can so we can review your situation and start preparing.
Throughout your case, we strive to provide clear communication and steady support. We answer questions, explain options, and prepare you for court appearances, so you are not walking into the courtroom uncertain about what may happen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a misdemeanor stay on my record in Minnesota?
A misdemeanor conviction typically appears on your Minnesota criminal record and may be seen on background checks. Whether it can later be sealed or expunged depends on the offense, the outcome, and your history. We can review your situation and explain how your specific charge may affect your record.
Can I go to jail for a misdemeanor in St. Paul?
Some misdemeanors carry potential jail time, although results vary based on the charge, your record, and case facts. Many cases resolve without jail, often involving fines or probation. We look closely at your situation and work to limit penalties, including advocating for alternatives to incarceration where appropriate.
When should I contact a misdemeanor lawyer after being charged?
It is usually best to contact a lawyer as soon as you learn about the charge or upcoming court date. Early involvement gives us more time to review evidence, identify issues, and prepare for your first appearance. We can also advise you about what to say and what not to say during this period.
How often will I hear from your attorneys about my case?
We strive to keep clients informed at key stages, especially before and after court hearings or important decisions. Communication frequency can depend on how active the case is at a given time. Our goal is that you understand what is happening and always know how to reach us with questions.
Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a first misdemeanor?
Even a first misdemeanor can affect employment, housing, and other opportunities. Having an attorney review the evidence and explain the range of possible outcomes can be valuable. We work to protect your record and help you understand whether options exist that may reduce long term consequences.
Protecting Your Future After A Charge
Over more than 70 years of combined practice, our firm has seen how early decisions in misdemeanor cases can shape a person’s life for years afterward. We work to give you realistic information about what may be possible in St. Paul courts, the likely timelines, and the factors that can influence results, such as your history and the specific allegations.
If you are facing a misdemeanor accusation, the sooner you talk with a misdemeanor lawyer St. Paul, the more time there is to prepare for hearings and explore available options. Our team is here to listen, to analyze your case, and to provide the guidance you need to move forward.
To discuss your situation with our misdemeanor attorneys and learn how we may be able to help protect your future, contact Rogosheske, Rogosheske & Atkins, PLLC today. Call (651) 413-9004 or reach out online to speak with our team.
