Your Criminal Rights: Time Limits

This month we will be looking at ways to protect yourself and your family when charged with a crime in Minnesota. Many of these ideas may be common sense; other suggestions will be from cases that we have dealt with over time. The main point being that you can’t trust the guy at the bar, someone you run into on the street, or a random post on Facebook for criminal advice. You need to talk to knowledgeable attorneys that understand the law and how to best protect your rights.

When you are criminally charged, time can mean everything. You must pay close attention to important dates. There is your first appearance where you will need to go and deal with the initial charges in front of the judge. This is where bail and/or conditions of release will be set. The court also confirms that you are the person they mean to charge and that the court has your current address. Depending on the crime charged, you may face time limits that require you to act quickly. For example, in a DWI case, you only have a certain time limit to challenge your license revocation. We have met with far too many people who come to us after certain time limits have run, but by that time, it is too late for them. It is better to get to a lawyer who understands what the time limits are and will ensure they are met.

It is important when you are charged with a crime in Minnesota that you get advice from an experienced attorney. The earlier you do this, the better chances that all of your options can be explored. At Bradshaw & Bryant, PLLC we have be helping Minnesotan’s with all level of charges from DUI and Drug charges to Homicide and Physical Assaults. We have put the time into court to make a difference for you.