Most people only think about criminal law when they are already in trouble. At that point, time matters, and understanding the system becomes critical. One wrong move can trigger long-term consequences.

“In Minnesota, criminal law comes with specific rules, deadlines, and categories that set it apart from other states. Knowing what counts as a crime, how charges develop, and where defenses come into play helps you make informed decisions,” says Omeed Berenjian, a criminal defense attorney from BK Law Group.

Here is what every Minnesotan should understand about the state’s criminal justice system.

The Three-Level Classification System for Crimes

Minnesota law splits criminal offenses into petty misdemeanors, misdemeanors, and felonies. Petty misdemeanors are not technically crimes and carry no jail time, just fines. Something like a speeding ticket often falls into this category.

Misdemeanors are one step up, and can land you up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Examples could include disorderly conduct, first-time DUI, or simple assault. However, gross misdemeanors are a bit more serious, attracting up to 364 days’ jail time and a maximum fine of $ 3,000.

Felonies carry the most weight. A conviction can result in a prison sentence of over a year, sometimes decades, depending on the offense: drug trafficking, burglary, and assault with a weapon fall here.

The Elements of a Crime

Every criminal charge starts with two basic ingredients: the act itself and the intent behind it. In legal terms, these are known as actus reus and mens rea. Prosecutors must prove both to secure a conviction, unless strict liability applies.

Actus reus refers to the physical act, such as stealing, hitting, or selling drugs. Mens rea refers to the mindset behind the act, whether it was accidental, reckless, or intentional.

You should note that certain crimes do not require intent at all. Traffic violations, for example, often qualify as strict liability offenses. No matter your intent, breaking the rule counts as a crime.

Types of Defenses

Defendants can challenge charges in different ways, depending on the facts of the case. Some use self-defense, arguing they used reasonable force to protect themselves or others.

Mental state also plays a role. Insanity, intoxication, or lack of intent may reduce or eliminate liability. If one acted under duress, meaning they were forced to commit the act under threat of harm, it can serve as a defense in some situations.

Procedural defenses often go unnoticed but can be powerful. If law enforcement violates constitutional rights, such as conducting an illegal search or failing to read Miranda warnings, the case can unravel.

The Presumption of Innocence

All criminal cases in Minnesota begin with the legal principle that every person is presumed innocent until proven guilty. That provision is a constitutional protection built into the foundation of due process.

Prosecutors need to show guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, so the accused does not have to prove they are innocent.

Jury members should make their choice based on proof, not guesses or emotions. If they have doubts that are grounded in facts, this should help the accused. This rule sets the bar high, which is right, because someone’s freedom is often at stake.

The Burden of Proof

Prosecutors have to show that the accused is guilty. This means the state must provide strong, clear evidence to support every aspect of the crime they claim occurred.

No responsibility rests on the defendant to explain their actions or prove innocence. The justice system does not require you to testify or offer any evidence in your defense.

Proof must meet the standard of beyond a reasonable doubt, which is the highest level required in law. It does not mean absolute certainty, but it does demand that no reasonable person would question the truth of the charge based on the evidence.

Final Remarks

Laws change, and so do the strategies used in courtrooms across Minnesota. Strategies that won cases a few years ago may not be relevant today.

If you are facing charges or have legal questions, speak directly with a criminal defense lawyer. A short conversation with the right person can shift the entire direction of a case.