Collateral Consequences of a Criminal Conviction
What are collateral consequences?
Collateral consequences of criminal conviction, also known as the "Four C's," are legal sanctions imposed upon people in addition to the direct consequences of a conviction, such as jail time, fines and probation. Examples of collateral consequences including losing the right to vote, deportation for immig...
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General Court Questions
General Court Questions
When your court day arrives, make sure you're prepared. Below is information and tips that detail everything from when you should arrive to the courthouse to what you should wear to court to what the possible outcomes for you case are.
Will my lawyer be with me in court?
Your lawyer will be in court for all court ap...
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Sentencing
Sentencing happens after a finding of guilt has been declared.
After a criminal defendant is convicted or pleads guilty, a judge will decide on the appropriate punishment during the sentencing part of a criminal case.
Will I have to pay my fine right away?
Generally, you will be given a reasonable time to pay ...
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Court Appearances
Court Appearances
If you are arrested or charged with a crime, there may be multiple instances where you may have to appear in court. Here's what you need to know about court appearances.
What is a bail hearing?
If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, the court may schedule a bail hearing before releasing you from jail. A bail ...
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Dealing with the Police
If you've been arrested or charged with a crime, you need to know your rights.
What is an arrest warrant?
An arrest warrant is an official document, signed by a judge, which authorizes a police officer to arrest a person suspected of committing a crime. A judge will issue an arrest warrant if a police officer submits a written affidavit, given unde...
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DWI / DUI Information
What should I do if I'm arrested for DWI or DUI?
Every year there are more than 30,000 people arrested for DWI or DUI in Minnesota, according to the
Minnesota Department of Public Safety.
Minnesota has a legal blood-alcohol limit of .08 for non-commercial drivers, and .04 for commercial drivers. If your
blood alcohol content (BAC) is above...
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Police At Your Door
When the police show up at your door, it’s important to know your rights. If officers ask you questions, your answers could be used against you in court. It's always important to keep calm and address officers in a respectful manner.
Do you have to answer the door for the police?
If law enforcement officers show up at your house without a warrant, ...
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Pulled Over By Police
What You Should Do if Pulled Over By Police
In any situation involving police, even if you believe you have done nothing wrong or have nothing to hide, you should have the knowledge to protect yourself.
If you're pulled over while driving your vehicle, here's what you should do:
If you see sirens flashing in your rearview mirror and you th...
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Police Search Your Property
When law enforcement is engaging in a search, there are rules and exceptions derived from the Fourth Amendment and court opinions to minimize the risk of an illegal search and seizure.
What is a search warrant?
A search warrant is a legal order issued by a judge or magistrate that authorizes law enforcement to conduct a search of a location or pers...
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