Minneapolis Felony Criminal Defense Lawyers

Get an Experienced Attorney for Your Case

Of all the crimes that a person can commit, felony charges are by far the most serious. No matter what type of felony you are facing, you could receive severe penalties even for a first-time conviction. In many cases, there are mandatory minimum prison sentences in place for both violent and non-violent felony charges.

To protect your future, you’ll need to act fast and secure a powerful defense for your case. At Tamburino Law Group, our Minneapolis felony criminal defense attorneys are motivated to protect your Constitutional rights and offer a strong defense for you. Always standing by your side, we’ll fight to ensure that your version of the story is heard.

Call (612) 444-5020 today to schedule a free consultation. We’re available 24/7 to hear your questions and concerns.

What Is a Felony Charge?

In every state, crimes are either classified as felonies, misdemeanors, or gross misdemeanors depending on their severity. While the penalties for a felony charge depend on the nature of the crime committed, felony charges carry life-altering consequences for defendants. Consequences for felony offenses can affect a wide variety of rights and privileges including voting, drivers license, gun rights, sex offender registration, extended jail time, and prison.

In Minnesota, convicted felons are not permitted to own a firearm. Those serving a prison sentence for a felony charge also cannot participate in local, state, or federal elections until they complete either their probation or parole.

Here are some of the most common felony-level charges:

• Rape and sexual assault (criminal sexual conduct)
• Murder in the first degree
• Aggravated assault
• Controlled substance crimes
• Robbery
• Kidnapping
• Money laundering
• Domestic assault
• Child sexual abuse
• Forgery

Important Factors in Felony Charges

Even if a crime is usually classified as a misdemeanor, it can easily become a felony charge if there are “aggravating factors” involved. For example, theft of an item with a relatively low dollar amount may typically be a misdemeanor, however, if a weapon was present or a threat of violence was made, it may now be charged as a felony.

The number of your prior convictions for the same offense can also greatly impact whether you receive a felony charge or not. A first-time DUI offender may only receive a misdemeanor charge – but once they’ve been arrested for the same crime four times within 10 years, the charge then qualifies as a felony.

Minnesota Felony Penalties

Felony penalties in Minnesota vary widely based on the offense, the presence of aggravating factors, and the defendant’s criminal history score. Under Minnesota’s sentencing guidelines, felony penalties may include:

Imprisonment

Felony convictions can result in:

• More than one year in prison, up to life imprisonment for the most serious offenses
• Mandatory minimum sentences for certain crimes such as violent crimes, drug trafficking, and firearm-related offenses

Fines

Felony fines can range from several thousand dollars to $1,000,000 or more, depending on the offense.

Probation

Some felony convictions allow for probation or a stayed sentence, which may include:

• Mandatory treatment programs
• Community service
• Regular check-ins
• Compliance with court-ordered conditions

Collateral Consequences

A felony conviction can affect every part of your life:

• Difficulty finding housing or employment
• Loss of gun rights
• Barriers to college financial aid
• Immigration consequences for non-U.S. citizens
• Damage to professional reputation and relationships

Because the consequences are so severe, it is crucial to work with a skilled defense attorney who understands Minnesota’s sentencing guidelines and can fight to reduce or eliminate penalties whenever possible.

Felony FAQs

Can felony charges be reduced to misdemeanors in Minnesota?

Yes. Depending on the evidence, circumstances, and your criminal history, a defense attorney may negotiate a reduction to a gross misdemeanor or misdemeanor.

Will I go to prison if convicted of a felony?

Not always. Some felony convictions result in probation, stayed sentences, or alternative sentencing programs. Your attorney can help fight for sentencing that avoids prison time.

Can a felony be expunged in Minnesota?

Many felonies can be expunged under Minnesota law, but eligibility varies. Typically, you must complete your sentence and meet waiting-period requirements.

Should I talk to police if I haven’t been arrested yet?

No. Always speak with an attorney before talking to law enforcement. Anything you say can be used against you.

How soon should I hire a lawyer?

Immediately. Early legal intervention can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Call an Attorney Today – (612) 444-5020

As former prosecutors, our Minneapolis felony defense attorneys at Tamburino Law Group understand exactly how serious a conviction can be. Whether you must appear in state or federal court, our seasoned felony criminal defense lawyers will help you create a powerful case strategy to fight back against your charges. We’ve been practicing in the area of criminal defense since 1983, and we can put over 100 years of collective experience to use in your case.

Don’t wait to seek counsel for your felony charge. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.