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A downward departure occurs when a federal judge sentences a defendant to a term that is below the minimum recommended by the sentencing guidelines. If you face a conviction for a felony offense, you may worry about sentencing requirements. Minnesota uses a formula known as sentencing guidelines to determine recommended sentences for felony crimes. Guideline sentences are not mandatory,...

The answer, as usual, is it depends. Pointing a gun at someone in the State of Minnesota, loaded or unloaded, can be a severe offense. The legal ramifications can vary depending on the specifics of the situation. Even if no injuries occur, pointing a gun at someone can be construed as a threat, and the legislature made the act...

Theft and shoplifting are some of the most common criminal offenses around the country. North Dakota is no different. Under the North Dakota statute, most theft offenses are generally classified according to the value of the stolen property or services. However, in some instances, the circumstances will determine the charge. North Dakota theft law is thorough and harsh. Whether...

If you are accused of a crime, it is always best to hire a private criminal defense attorney. Most likely, the right attorney will be different from the one that drafted your will or closed on your house. You want to choose an attorney who is knowledgeable and experienced in criminal defense.  If you are in need of a...

When most people hear “work injury” or “workplace injury,” they think of physical injuries such as a broken bone, torn ligament, burn, etc. However, while physical injuries are certainly the most common workplace injury, there are also psychological or mental injuries that may be compensable. A workers’ compensation psychological injury attorney can help you understand your options. Contact the...

Most employees and employers alike are familiar with workers’ compensation on some level. Many Minnesota employees understand it is a system in place to protect injured workers. On a fundamental level, the system is there to compensate employees who suffer a work injury. However, establishing the connection between the injury and work is not always as simple as it...

When you face criminal charges, there is a lot on the line: your freedom, financial stability, reputation, and more. Even minor criminal charges can drastically change your life. Having a defense attorney with the time and resources to dedicate to your defense is vital. At Arechigo & Stokka, our criminal defense attorney in Fargo, ND, protects the accused’s rights. ...

Many states still prosecute prostitution offenses, despite a growing public opinion that sex work should be decriminalized. In North Dakota, prostitution is generally a misdemeanor punishable by jail time and hefty fines. Not only can the alleged individual offering sexual services face criminal charges, but so can other parties allegedly involved with soliciting sex, engaging in sexual activity for...

In 2021, the sexual assault law in Minnesota changed quite drastically. While some view the law as striking a balance between giving alleged victims greater access to resources and justice, others believe that it could be damaging to anyone accused of a sexual assault crime. Now, even based solely on allegations, an individual can be charged with sexual assault...

Being arrested and charged with a crime can be a terrifying experience. You may be thinking about legal representation and wondering what the differences are with a public defender vs private attorney. There are pros and cons to each, which is why it’s imperative to weigh your options carefully. In most cases, hiring a private attorney is better, especially...