Edina Domestic Assault Lawyer

Edina Domestic Assault Attorney

Being arrested for domestic assault is a serious offense. Even if you are not convicted, the mere allegations can be life-changing and damaging to your personal life, reputation, and career. No matter what the cause or circumstances surrounding your situation, you need an Edina domestic assault lawyer to fight for your rights and future.

What Is Domestic Assault?

Domestic assault is a criminal charge that occurs when someone causes, attempts to cause, or intentionally places a family or household member in fear of immediate bodily harm. Minnesota allows domestic assault charges to proceed based solely on police observations and witness statements, even if there is no physical injury. Some examples of domestic assault include:

• Pushing someone during an argument
• Punching or kicking
• Throwing something at a partner in anger
• Verbal threats to harm a partner or family member
• Choking
• Restraining
• Preventing someone from contacting law enforcement
• Violating a restraining order

In 2022, there were a total of 18,020 domestic incident victims in Minnesota. 10,634 of these were for simple assault, and 2,787 were for aggravated assault. According to the CDC, over 61 million women and 53 million men have experienced some form of psychological aggression in their lives by an intimate partner.

Understanding Edina Domestic Assault Laws

Minnesota Statute § 609.2242 defines domestic assault as intentionally making a family or household member fear imminent bodily injury. It can also involve intentionally causing or trying to cause physical harm to them. Family or household members can be:

• Spouses
• Current or former romantic partners
• Co-parents
• People who live together

In Edina and around the Twin Cities, a domestic assault charge can carry:

• Fines
• Jail time
• Misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the nature of the crime

A conviction can result in lasting consequences, such as:

• Losing gun rights
• Acquiring a permanent criminal record
• Facing barriers to housing and employment opportunities
• Triggering immigration problems for non-citizens

Every domestic assault case is different.

Common Issues in Domestic Violence Cases

Minnesota law enforcement can arrest you without a warrant if they have probable cause to believe that you committed a crime. In a moment, misunderstandings can turn into criminal charges, especially in high-speed, emotionally charged situations. Some common issues that occur in domestic violence cases include:

• Being accused of domestic assault after a mere heated argument
• Acting in self-defense
• False claims made in retaliation, for revenge, after a breakup, or for an ulterior motive, such as seeking an advantage in a child custody case
• A third party reporting an incident they witnessed and misunderstood

Ronnie Santana understands both the speed at which events can escalate and the necessity of defending your narrative.

What to Expect After a Domestic Assault Arrest

Anyone arrested for domestic assault in Edina can expect their case to proceed rapidly through the early legal process. A judge will hold a bail hearing or arraignment at the Hennepin County Government Center within 36 to 48 hours, during which the court could establish release terms and implement a no-contact order.

Your legal process will include pretrial hearings and an evidence review, followed by possible plea deals. As a former prosecutor, Ronnie Santana can evaluate the prosecution’s case flaws and develop a defense strategy tailored to your specific circumstances.

Hire a Domestic Assault Lawyer

Santana Law PLLC is a criminal defense law firm in Minnesota. Ronnie Santana is not just another domestic assault attorney. As a former prosecutor, he knows how domestic assault cases are built and how they can be torn down. He defends people with professionalism, integrity, and a profound respect for human dignity.

Mr. Santana is a Spanish-speaking family law attorney in Edina with strong roots in Minnesota. His firm serves Hispanic communities in Edina as well as other areas. If Spanish is your first language, you deserve an attorney who can clearly explain the law and speak to you with cultural sensitivity and respect.

Mr. Santana can make sure all his clients understand their legal rights and options, regardless of their situation. After an investigation, he can formulate a strong defense against their allegations.

FAQs

Can Domestic Assault Charges Be Dropped in Minnesota?

Domestic assault charges can be dropped in Minnesota, but it will require more than the alleged victim requesting it to happen. After charges are filed, it is up to the prosecutor whether the case goes forward. They may dismiss the case if evidence is lacking, the witness is not credible, or there are legal problems. Many times, however, the prosecutor will proceed, even without the victim’s participation.

How Much Is a Lawyer for a Domestic Violence Case in Edina, MN?

The cost of a lawyer in Edina for a domestic violence case will vary based on a number of circumstances. First, each lawyer charges differently based on their experience and geographic region. Additionally, the cost of a lawyer will be different for cases that go to trial versus those that settle out of court. Some lawyers charge flat fees, while others charge hourly. Typically, the more complex a case is, the higher the cost to hire a domestic assault lawyer will be.

Do Most Assault Charges Get Dropped in Edina?

Most assault charges are not, but a considerable number of them are either dropped, dismissed, or reduced to a lesser charge in Edina. Even if the victim does not cooperate, the prosecution may still proceed if they have strong enough evidence. However, they may opt to drop the case or go for lesser charges if there is a strong defense. Each case is different, and their outcomes depend on the circumstances.

What Is the Statute of Limitations on Domestic Violence in Minnesota?

In Minnesota, the statute of limitations for most misdemeanor domestic assault charges is three years. The statute of limitations for felony domestic assault can range from three to five years, depending on the exact offense. The statute of limitations period may be suspended when the defendant moves out of state. An attorney can advise you on the specific limitations of your case.

Contact Santana Law PLLC Today

If you were charged with domestic assault in Edina, do not wait to seek legal counsel. This can be the difference between a future of freedom and one with penalties and restrictions. Contact Santana Law PLLC today to begin fighting for your rights.