Minnesota’s criminal statutes have a few quirks that can easily confuse people. Whether you’re a native or just moved here, it’s worth knowing how things are done here.
“Mens rea, however, concerns whether or not the person had the intent to break the law or acted negligently or recklessly. Courts in Minnesota approach this very seriously because intent dictates sentencing and level of guilt,“ says Omeed Berenjian, a criminal defense attorney from BK Law Group.
From procedures for arrest through sentencing policies, even the smallest deviation from neighboring states matters. This article breaks down some of the most essential elements of North Star State criminal law so that you know what really matters should trouble ever ring your door.
Different Types of Criminal Charges
Minnesota categorizes offenses as infractions, misdemeanors, or felonies. Infractions are minor offenses like traffic citations and littering. They do not require incarceration but can incur expenses and show up in background checks.
Conversely, misdemeanors are more serious crimes, such as simple assault, DUI, and theft, which would bring a possible 90 days in jail. Gross misdemeanors, however, a step higher, carry up to one year’s punishment.
The most heinous crimes, including burglary, drug trafficking, and sexual assault, are classified as felonies. Conviction typically translates to over one year of imprisonment and lasting results such as forfeiture of the right to vote or gun license.
The Elements of a Crime
All criminal accusations in Minnesota rest on three specific elements that the prosecution must prove: actus reus (the act), mens rea (the intent), and causation. Actus reus simply means that the defendant performed an illegal act, such as stealing or assault.
Causation keeps it all together. The prosecution must prove that the acts of the accused have directly caused harm or broken a law. When one of these elements fails in court, the entire charge can collapse.
Types of Defenses
The defense may use a number of strategies to convince the court to reduce charges or to dismiss a case. Self-defense is one of the most common methods and could be used if the accused uses force to protect themselves from harm.
Another is duress, where the accused acts under threat or compulsion. If the prosecutors cannot demonstrate that you intended to break the law in the first instance, you can apply a lack of intent as a defense strategy.
Finally, mental incapacity may be invoked when an individual does not understand what they are doing because of disability or illness. Courts are careful with evidence before accepting any defense, especially when physical harm is involved.
The Burden of Proof
To convict, the prosecution must demonstrate each component of the criminal accusation, leaving no reasonable doubt in the minds of the jury. That burden is always the prosecution’s responsibility.
Prosecutors must introduce adequate evidence, including witness testimony, forensic examination, or video recordings, at hearings. Minnesota courts will not settle for weak inferences or unsubstantiated assumptions as enough to convict an individual.
Defendants do not have to establish innocence. Furthermore, not saying anything while on trial is a constitutional privilege under the Fifth Amendment and will never be used against you. But if one uses a defense like alibi or insanity, then the defense will need to provide some evidence, too.
Innocence Presumption
All those charged with a crime in Minnesota start presumed innocent. That presumption remains valid unless the prosecution makes out its burden to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Jurors are instructed to remember that doubt must favor the accused. Even if evidence appears strong, whenever doubt remains concerning significant facts, the law reminds jurors to enter a finding not guilty.
The accused is not mandated to testify or defend themselves at trial for this right to be invoked. The entire justice system is based on the presumption of innocence, which affects everything from bail decisions to final verdicts.
Wrapping Up
Minnesota law can sound simple on paper, but it works differently in courtrooms and police stations. The real advantage is gained by understanding the underlying rules of the system. However, if things seem so complicated, you might want to consult a criminal defense lawyer for a more tailored approach to your case.
Also Read: How Criminal Law Distinguishes Murder from Homicide
