651-300-7389

Main office located in Stillwater, Minnesota

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Thole Law Firm | A Criminal Defense Law Firm
Thole Law Firm | A Criminal Defense Law Firm

Former Prosecutor Serving Minnesota And Wisconsin Since 1992

Defending Against Violent Crime Charges In Washington County

The prosecutors in Washington County and surrounding jurisdictions of Minnesota and Wisconsin take violent crimes such as domestic assault, sexual assault and terrorist threats very seriously. If you are being investigated for a violent crime, you need experienced representation on your side – before charges are even filed, if possible.

The Thole Law Firm provides experienced criminal defense for clients throughout the St. Croix River Valley charged with misdemeanor or felony crimes of a violent nature. From disorderly conduct to murder defense, attorney Eric C. Thole can take immediate action to protect your rights, interests and reputation.

Experienced Stillwater Attorney For Domestic Assault Defense, Sex Crimes And Other Violent Crime Defense

Prior to opening his private practice, Washington County attorney Thole worked as a felony prosecutor for Washington County for eight years and, formerly, for the cities of Stillwater and Cottage Grove for four years collectively. He brings this practical trial experience and knowledge to each client’s defense. He has tried and defended a wide variety of violent crime cases, including:

More serious felonies such as child pornography or other sex crimes require an aggressive and detailed defense, as the consequences of conviction often include mandatory prison time and lifelong registration as a sex offender. Additionally, such cases often become highly sensationalized by the media.

In all cases, attorney Thole protects clients’ privacy and takes steps to minimize overly aggressive news coverage as much as possible. He seeks the best possible outcome that preserves clients’ reputation and minimizes the long-term effects of their cases.

Understanding Assault Charges In Minnesota

Minnesota assault law recognizes two types of conduct. Fear-based assault occurs when someone causes another person to fear immediate bodily harm. Harm-based assault involves actually inflicting physical injury on another person. The degree of the charge depends on the severity of the conduct and the circumstances of the offense.

Minnesota law classifies assault from first degree to fifth degree:

  • First-degree assault: Causing great bodily harm with aggravating factors, a felony
  • Second-degree assault: Assault involving a dangerous weapon, a felony
  • Third-degree assault: Causing substantial bodily harm, a felony
  • Fourth-degree assault: Assault against peace officers, certain professionals or motivated by bias, a gross misdemeanor or felony
  • Fifth-degree assault: Minor harm or intentional conduct causing fear of harm, typically a misdemeanor

The degree of the charge shapes both the potential penalties and the direction of your defense.

Frequently Asked Questions About Violent Crimes In Minnesota

Violent crime charges come with difficult questions. Here are answers to some of the most common ones.

What if the alleged victim wants to drop charges?

In Minnesota, the alleged victim cannot drop charges. Criminal charges belong to the state, not the individual. Prosecutors control whether a case moves forward, even if the alleged victim recants or refuses to cooperate. This is especially common in domestic assault cases.

What factors make violent crime penalties more severe?

Several factors can increase violent crime penalties. Prosecutors and courts weigh many circumstances when evaluating a case. Factors that can lead to harsher penalties include:

  • Prior criminal history
  • Use of a weapon
  • Severity of injuries
  • Victim’s age or protected status
  • Location of the offense

Even minor differences in these factors can significantly change the outcome of your case.

What defenses are common in violent crime cases?

The most common defenses include self-defense, lack of intent and challenging the prosecution’s evidence. Defense strategies vary based on the facts of your case. Common defenses in violent crime cases include:

  • Self-defense: Using force to protect yourself from an immediate threat
  • Defense of others: Acting to protect someone else from harm
  • Lack of intent: The harm caused was accidental, not deliberate
  • False accusation: The allegations against you are inaccurate or unsupported
  • Insufficient evidence: The prosecution cannot prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt

The right defense strategy depends entirely on the facts of your case.

Get A Free Consultation With Attorney Thole

If you or someone you know has been charged with a violent crime, contact the firm by calling 651-300-7389 now to schedule a free initial consultation with a lawyer. Attorney Thole will thoroughly explore all your options and develop a defense strategy that meets your needs and goals.

Free initial consultations | Jail visits available | Credit cards accepted | Evening and weekend appointments