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A downward departure occurs when a judge imposes a sentence below the range recommended by the sentencing guidelines due to mitigating factors. One common form—known as a downward dispositional departure, allows the court to stay a presumptive prison sentence and place the defendant on probation when incarceration is not necessary based on the defendant’s amenability to community-based rehabilitation. If...

At Arechigo & Stokka, we understand that navigating North Dakota weed laws can be confusing. Many clients ask us, “is marijuana legal in North Dakota?” Unfortunately, these questions often arise only after someone is charged with a crime. By taking the time to learn about the state’s cannabis laws in advance, you can help prevent potential legal issues in...

Minnesota revenge porn laws have gotten lots of news coverage. We battled a revenge porn case that spanned years. The Minnesota Supreme Court recently declared that the state’s laws are not unconstitutional. So what are Minnesota revenge porn laws? And what can you do if you’ve been charged with the crime? What Is Revenge Porn? Sharing an explicit image...

Living under the weight of sex offender registration requirements in St. Paul, Minnesota, can reshape every aspect of your life—but understanding these laws is your first step toward reclaiming control. This guide breaks down the complexities of Minnesota’s sex offender registration system, from the process to residency restrictions and legal tiers, focusing on St. Paul.  At the Criminal Defense...

A continuance for dismissal (sometimes known as a “continuance without a plea” or an “agreement to suspend prosecution”) is perhaps the best resolution to a criminal case besides outright dismissal or an acquittal. A continuance for dismissal is an agreement between the defendant and the prosecutor. The police and prosecution are not the same entity, even if they work...

As an employee, your employer must provide you with a safe work environment. In some situations, a careless manufacturer puts workers at risk. Every day, equipment malfunctions place many individuals at risk for severe machine injuries. If injured due to an equipment malfunction, it is crucial to promptly speak to a work injury attorney and discuss your rights. You...

You’ve been charged with a crime, and searching for help feels daunting. It can be tough to tell one lawyer from another, and you may not know who to call. Your future is on the line, and you need someone who can guide you through the legal maze with confidence and care. Choosing the right criminal defense lawyer near...

In Minnesota, police officers must generally obtain a search warrant to lawfully search a vehicle. However, “can the police search your car without a warrant?” is a question that depends on specific circumstances. Warrantless vehicle searches in Minnesota are usually considered unconstitutional unless they meet one of seven exceptions to the warrant requirement. For a search warrant, law enforcement...

Is it Possible to Get a DUI on a Bike in MN? In Minnesota, you cannot be charged with a DUI while riding a bicycle because a bicycle is not classified as a motor vehicle under state law. DUI laws apply only to motor vehicle operators. Riding a bicycle while intoxicated is still dangerous but does not meet the...