What to Expect in a Felony Case in Minnesota

Understanding a Felony case in Minnesota

Regarding a felony case in Minnesota, Minnesota law divides offenses into three main levels:

• Misdemeanors – Up to 90 days in jail

• Gross Misdemeanors – Up to 1 year in jail

• Felonies – A year and a day up to life in prison

Felonies are defined by their maximum possible punishment. That doesn’t mean every felony leads to prison time, but it does reflect the seriousness of the charge.

Examples of Felony Offenses

Felonies in Minnesota cover a wide range of crimes, including:

• Robbery and carjacking

• Theft involving larger dollar amounts

• Drug possession, distribution, or sales

• Assault

• Murder and manslaughter

These are only a few examples — Minnesota law recognizes dozens of felony-level offenses, each carrying different potential sentences and collateral consequences.

Court Punishments vs. Collateral Consequences for a Felony Case in Minnesota

If convicted of a felony, you face two sets of consequences:

1. Court-Ordered Punishment

   • Prison or jail time

   • Probation

   • Fines and restitution

   Not every felony results in prison. Some cases resolve with probation or alternative sentences, depending on the facts, your record, and the defense strategy.

2. Collateral Consequences
   These are the long-term effects outside of the courtroom, and they can be just as serious:

   • Loss of the right to vote (at least while serving a sentence)

   • Loss of the right to run for public office

   • Permanent ban on firearm and ammunition possession

   • Barriers to employment due to background checks

   • Restrictions on volunteering at schools or with youth programs

   • Housing problems, as some landlords, apartments, and communities deny residency to people with felony records

Collateral consequences are often overlooked, yet they can impact your daily life long after the court case ends.

The Felony Process in Minnesota

While this article focuses on the nature and consequences of felonies, it’s helpful to understand the process too. If you’re charged with a felony in Minnesota, here’s what you can expect:

• Initial Appearance / Bail Hearing – A judge decides if you’ll be released, set bail, or remain in custody.

• Rule 5 & Rule 8 Hearings – You are formally advised of your rights, including the right to an attorney and the presumption of innocence.

• Omnibus Hearing – The court reviews constitutional issues (like illegal searches or arrests) and decides if probable cause exists for the case to continue. You’ll also enter a plea, usually “not guilty” at this stage.

• Case Timeline – Felony cases typically last 6–12 months, but can run longer if they go to trial.

• Trial – If unresolved, a jury of 12 must unanimously agree you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt for a conviction.

Why Legal Representation Matters in a Felony Case in Minnesota

A felony charge is serious. The combination of potential prison time, long case timelines, and lasting collateral consequences means you need someone protecting your rights at every stage. An experienced defense attorney can:

• Challenge unconstitutional searches or arrests

• Negotiate for reduced charges or dismissal

• Pursue alternatives that avoid prison or a permanent felony record

• Protect you from collateral consequences you might not even know about

Frequently Asked Questions About a Felony Case in Minnesota

What makes a crime a felony in Minnesota?
A felony is defined by the maximum possible punishment — any crime where the potential sentence is more than one year and one day in prison.

Will I automatically go to prison if convicted of a felony?
No. Some felonies result in probation, treatment programs, or local jail time instead of prison. The outcome depends on the charge, your criminal history, and your attorney’s defense strategy.

What are collateral consequences of a felony conviction?
Collateral consequences include loss of voting rights, firearm bans, restrictions on employment or housing, and limits on volunteering or professional licensing. These effects often last long after the court case is finished.

How long does a felony case take in Minnesota?
Felony cases generally take 6–12 months, but some last longer depending on evidence, scheduling, and whether the case goes to trial.

Can a felony ever be reduced to a misdemeanor?
Yes. Minnesota law allows for a Stay of Imposition in some cases, where a felony conviction can be reduced to a misdemeanor after successful probation.

Do I need a lawyer for a felony case?
Absolutely. The stakes are too high to face alone. A defense attorney can protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s case, and help you understand the long-term consequences of any plea or verdict.

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📞 If you’re facing felony charges in Minnesota, call Ryan Pacyga Criminal Defense at 612-339-5844 or visit ArrestedMN.com for a consultation.