Serving the Greater St Paul / Minneapolis Area
Waldt Law Office
651-341-9176
FELONIES
NEGOTIATION
Felonies are the most serious level of crime. They are potentially a crime that carries a prison term with it. You should always seek legal representation if you are charged with a felony.
Negotiation is a key part in resolving criminal cases. If you are charged with a crime it is very important to hire an attorney who is experienced in negotiation to limit potential consequences you may face.
MISDEMEANORS
LITIGATION
Misdemeanors are serious charges for which you could face jail time but not a prison sentence. Examples of some misdemeanor charges are: theft, assault, DWI, disorderly conduct, damage to property, fleeing a police officer, minor drug offenses and possession of stolen property.
Ultimately if you are facing trial you need to hire a great litigator. A litigator is someone with experience in doing trials. Many cases get resolved by negotiation but you should always know whether or not your attorney has trial experience.
JUVENILE CASES
TRIAL WORK
Juvenile cases can be either a felony or a misdemeanor just as adult cases. Juvenile punishment usually terminates when a juvenile reaches age eighteen. Juveniles can also sometimes be charged as an adult and face adult consequences for serious felony cases. Juvenile cases often involve the psychology of a minor and it is important to consult an attorney who understands this aspect of juvenile charges.
A great trial attorney is always assessing the merits of your case as you proceed toward resolution of your criminal case. Trial skills are honed through experience of actually taking cases to trial. You will want to know that your attorney has trial experience.
FEDERAL & STATE PRACTICE
There are two types of criminal courts – state and federal. All attorneys are licensed to practice in state court but a special license is needed to practice in federal court. The rules of practice in federal court differ from that of state court. If you are charged in federal court it is necessary for you to hire an attorney who is licensed in federal legal practice.
TRAFFIC OFFENSES
Traffic offenses can be either a misdemeanor or a petty misdemeanor. Although traffic offenses are often considered to be minor charges, because they can impact your driving privileges it is wise to consult an attorney if you are charged with a driving offense. Some examples of traffic offenses are: driving without a valid license, no insurance, speeding, failing to yield, and stop sign violations.
APPELLATE PRACTICE
If your case ultimately goes to trial and you lose your case you may have issues that can be appealed to a higher court. If there were legal errors in your trial there is a special procedure to ask for review of your case. This is a specialized area of legal practice that requires expertise in examining legal issues.
PROBATION VIOLATIONS
Probation violations occur when you have been convicted of a crime and are placed on probation and you violate a condition of your probation. If you are found in violation of your probation then you will most likely receive an additional punishment for the underlying crime.