Minneapolis Criminal Team

Common Crimes We Defend Against

The prosecution begins building its case against you the moment law enforcement becomes involved. To counter their efforts, you need an experienced defense team that understands the nuances of Minnesota criminal law. At Tamburino Law Group, we handle a comprehensive range of criminal matters in Hennepin County and throughout the Twin Cities metro area, including:

• Driving While Impaired (DWI/DUI): Minnesota has exceptionally strict drunk driving laws. We defend clients against first-time offenses, felony DWIs, commercial driver’s license (CDL) violations, and cases involving chemical test refusals.
• Assault and Domestic Assault: Charges involving physical altercations, threats, or domestic violence carry heavy stigmas and immediate consequences, such as Orders for Protection (OFPs) or Harassment Restraining Orders (HROs).
• Drug Crimes: We represent individuals charged with drug possession, distribution, manufacturing, and trafficking involving controlled substances like marijuana, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and prescription medications.
• Theft and Property Crimes: From minor shoplifting and petty misdemeanor theft to high-value burglary, robbery, arson, and motor vehicle theft, we work to protect your record and your future.
• White-Collar Crimes: These complex financial crimes require meticulous investigation. We defend clients accused of fraud, embezzlement, identity theft, money laundering, and corporate forgery.
• Sex Offenses: Allegations of sexual misconduct, sexual assault, or possession of prohibited materials carry severe societal stigma and the mandatory requirement of lifetime sex offender registration. We provide a discreet, aggressive defense against these highly sensitive charges.
• Weapons Violations: Carrying a pistol without a permit, possession of a firearm by an ineligible person, and reckless discharge of a weapon are fiercely prosecuted offenses in Minnesota.

Misdemeanors vs. Felonies in Minnesota

Minnesota classifies criminal offenses into distinct categories based on the severity of the alleged crime. Understanding how your charge is classified is essential, as it dictates the potential statutory maximum penalties you face.

Petty Misdemeanors

Technically not considered a crime under Minnesota law, a petty misdemeanor does not carry jail time. The penalty is typically a fine of up to $300, but a conviction can still impact your driving record or insurance rates.

Misdemeanors

A misdemeanor is the lowest level of actual criminal offense in Minnesota. Examples include first-time driving offenses, minor assaults, or petty theft.

Maximum Penalty: Up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000.

Gross Misdemeanors

Gross misdemeanors occupy the middle ground between minor offenses and severe felonies. Second-time DWIs, repeat domestic assault violations, and theft of property valued between $500 and $1,000 fall into this category.

Maximum Penalty: Up to one year in local jail and/or a fine of up to $3,000.

Felonies

Felonies are the most severe crimes under Minnesota state law. This classification encompasses murder, manslaughter, criminal sexual conduct, high-tier drug trafficking, and grand theft. Felony convictions carry long-term consequences that persist long after your sentence is served, including the loss of your right to vote and your right to possess firearms.

Maximum Penalty: From more than one year in a state correctional facility up to life imprisonment, along with tens of thousands of dollars in fines.

No matter the level of the charge against you, Tamburino Law Group approaches every case with the seriousness and rigor it deserves.

What Happens After an Arrest in Minneapolis?

The Minnesota criminal justice process is highly structured, fast-moving, and easily confusing for anyone unfamiliar with the courts. Knowing what to expect can alleviate anxiety and help you make informed decisions.

1. Arrest and Booking

Following an arrest by the Minneapolis Police Department or the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, you will be taken to a detention facility for booking. This process involves recording your personal information, taking fingerprints, photographing you, and inventorying your property.

2. The 36-Hour and 48-Hour Rules

Minnesota law imposes strict timelines on law enforcement. Under the "48-Hour Rule," a judge must determine within 48 hours of a warrantless arrest whether probable cause existed to detain you. Additionally, the "36-Hour Rule" mandates that an arrested individual must be brought before a judge reasonably promptly, excluding the day of arrest, Sundays, and legal holidays, which generally amounts to no more than 36 hours.

3. First Appearance (Arraignment)

Your first court appearance is your formal introduction to the judicial process. The judge will officially read the charges filed against you, inform you of your constitutional rights, and address bail and conditions of release (such as travel restrictions or random drug testing). It is critical to have a defense attorney present at this hearing to argue for your release or a reduction in bail.

4. Omnibus Hearing

During the Omnibus Hearing, your defense counsel challenges the legal basis of the prosecution's case. We review the state's evidence, debate the legality of searches and seizures, contest the admissibility of statements you made to police, and determine if there is sufficient probable cause to move forward to a trial.

5. Plea Bargaining vs. Trial

Many criminal cases are resolved through negotiations. We aggressively leverage weaknesses in the state’s evidence to secure a dismissal or negotiate a favorable plea agreement. However, if the prosecution refuses to offer a fair resolution, Tamburino Law Group is fully prepared to take your case before a jury to fight for a "not guilty" verdict.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

If you have been arrested or believe you are under investigation, it is important to seek legal counsel immediately. Waiting too long can hurt your case and limit defense opportunities.

Early legal representation may help:

• Preserve evidence
• Protect your rights during questioning
• Prevent damaging statements
• Identify procedural violations
• Improve negotiation opportunities

Even if formal charges have not yet been filed, speaking with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible can be beneficial.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the police want to question me?

You should politely but firmly refuse to answer any questions and state, "I am exercising my right to remain silent, and I want to speak to my lawyer." Do not attempt to explain your side of the story or clear up a misunderstanding. Law enforcement officers are trained to gather incriminating evidence, and anything you say can—and will—be used against you.

Can a police officer search my car or home without a warrant?

Generally, the Fourth Amendment protects you against unreasonable searches and seizures, meaning law enforcement typically needs a warrant signed by a judge. However, there are numerous exceptions, such as if you give explicit consent, if evidence is in plain view, or if urgent "exigent circumstances" exist. If your rights were violated through an illegal search, your attorney can file a motion to suppress that evidence so it cannot be used against you.

What is the difference between jail and prison in Minnesota?

Jail facilities are managed locally by counties (such as the Hennepin County Jail) and are typically used to hold individuals awaiting trial or those serving sentences for misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor offenses lasting one year or less. Prison facilities are run by the state (Minnesota Department of Corrections) and house individuals convicted of felony offenses with sentences extending beyond one year.

Can I get my criminal record cleared in Minneapolis?

Yes, Minnesota has an expungement law that allows certain individuals to have their criminal records sealed. Whether you qualify depends heavily on the nature of the crime, the level of the offense, how the case was resolved, and how much time has passed since you completed your sentence. Our team can evaluate your record to determine your eligibility for an expungement.

Speak with Our Team Today

Do not leave your future up to chance or rely on an overworked public defender who cannot give your case the dedicated time it requires. The sooner you involve an experienced defense attorney from Tamburino Law Group, the more opportunities we have to intervene, protect your rights, and work toward minimizing or eliminating the impact of these charges on your life.

Contact our firm today at (612) 444-5020 to schedule your confidential case evaluation. Let us take the burden off your shoulders and begin fighting for your future.