Property Crimes Defense Attorney

Criminal Damage to Property and Vandalism

Our property crime attorneys handle all damage to property charges, which legally encompasses acts of vandalism. This could include intentional private or public property destruction or defacement, graffiti, damage to vehicles, breaking windows, keying vehicles, and other malicious damage. The severity of criminal damage to property charges depends on the extent of damage caused, with more severe penalties for higher-value damage.

Criminal damage to property charges are categorized by degrees:

• First Degree: Property damage exceeding $1,000 in value, creating a risk of bodily harm, or committed because of bias
• Second Degree: Damage to public safety vehicles, public utilities, or public property valued between $500-$1,000
• Third Degree: Property damage between $500-$1,000 or any tampering with public utilities
• Fourth Degree: Property damage under $500 in value

Burglary

Our skilled burglary defense attorneys provide comprehensive defense for all degrees of burglary charges. Under Minnesota law, burglary occurs when a person enters a building without consent with the intent to commit a crime or when they enter without consent and commit a crime once inside. Burglary is classified by severity:

• First Degree: Entering a building with a dangerous weapon, causing assault/injury, or entering an occupied dwelling
• Second Degree: Entering a building with tools for theft/crime, entering a bank/pharmacy, or entering a dwelling/religious establishment
• Third Degree: Entering any building with intent to commit a crime
• Fourth Degree: Entering a building without consent and committing a misdemeanor-level crime

Trespassing

Trespassing charges in Minnesota involve entering or remaining on property without consent or legal right. This can include returning to the property after being told to leave, refusing to depart when requested, or entering clearly restricted areas. Our property crimes attorneys defend against various types of trespassing charges, from basic trespassing to aggravated violations involving schools, public utilities, or critical infrastructure.

Arson

Our experienced defense team handles all degrees of arson charges. Under Minnesota law, arson is defined as intentionally destroying or damaging any property by means of fire or explosives. This can range from minor property damage to serious cases involving occupied buildings. The severity depends on factors such as:

• Whether the building was occupied
• The value of the property damaged
• The intent behind the act
• Any resulting injuries

Other Property Crimes

Additional types of property crimes we defend:

• Unlawful entry
• Tampering with utility services
• Possession of stolen property
• Property crimes involving motor vehicles
• Computer and digital property crimes
• Theft and larceny

Penalties for Property Crimes in Minnesota

Property crimes range from misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony based on the crime's nature, the value of the property in question, and the defendant’s criminal history. Our property crime attorneys will help you understand potential consequences and guide you forward.

• Misdemeanor Property Crimes
• Property valued under $500
• Maximum penalties: 90 days jail, $1,000 fine
• May include community service and restitution

Gross Misdemeanor Property Crimes

• Property valued $500-$1,000
• Maximum penalties: 1 year jail, $3,000 fine
• Enhanced penalties for repeat offenders
• Includes probation and restitution requirements

Felony Property Crimes

• Applies to property over $1,000 or cases involving threats/harm
• Prison sentences of 1-20 years
• Fines up to $100,000

• Permanent consequences include:

  • Loss of voting and firearm rights
  • Employment and housing restrictions
  • Immigration consequences
  • Long-term restitution obligations

Mistakes to Avoid When Facing Property Crime Charges

When facing property crime charges, our defense attorneys have seen certain critical errors that can significantly impact case outcome, including:

• Speaking to law enforcement without your property crimes lawyer present, as even seemingly innocent statements can be used against you
• Attempting to destroy or conceal evidence, which can result in additional charges and severely damage your defense
• Discussing your case on social media or with friends and family, as these communications can be discovered and used by prosecutors
• Contacting alleged victims directly or indirectly can lead to additional charges or violation of court orders
• Delaying legal representation, potentially missing crucial opportunities to build a strong defense
• Failing to document important case details and preserve potential evidence
• Missing court appearances or violating pre-trial release conditions
  

Defense Strategies for Property Crime Cases

Our criminal defense lawyers leverage decades of experience to guide clients through Minnesota's complex legal system with proven defense strategies.

Constitutional Rights Violations

We examine the investigation and arrest process to uncover potential constitutional rights violations, from warrant validity to procedural issues.

Challenging the Evidence

We meticulously scrutinize all evidence, including surveillance footage, witness testimony, and forensic records, ensuring thorough validation of every element in your case.

Intent and Knowledge Defenses

We address crucial elements from property rights to misidentification, investigating every angle, including mental health considerations and alibi, to build your strongest possible defense.

Why Choose Universal Defense LLC For Your Case?

With over three decades of property crime defense experience, Universal Defense LLC brings strong relationships with local courts and proven defense strategies to your case. Available 24/7, we provide personalized attention and unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes. Don’t let property crime charges threaten your future.