Can police test you for driving high in Minnesota? With the legalization of marijuana in Minnesota, law enforcement agencies are adapting their approach to handling suspected impaired driving cases. A recent NPR article, "Driving High: The Challenges of THC DUI Testing", highlights new roadside drug tests that police are piloting ...

If you've been charged with a DWI in Minnesota, you might feel like your fate is sealed. After all, the police have breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and their own testimony stacked against you. But here’s what most people don’t realize—a DWI charge is not the same as a DWI ...

Background A young man found himself in the midst of a federal conspiracy case, facing charges that carried a mandatory 10-year prison sentence. He was indicted in U.S. District Court for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, including LSD, methamphetamine, and marijuana. The federal investigation uncovered evidence of large-scale drug transactions, ...

Minnesota is known for its breathtaking lakes, cold winters, and the ever-friendly "Minnesota Nice." But tucked within its legal code are some quirky, surprising, and downright peculiar laws that make you do a double-take. While most laws exist for good reason—public safety, fairness, and order—some seem to have aged out ...

When facing criminal charges, choosing the right attorney can make all the difference. You need a great defense lawyer that doesn’t just react to the prosecution’s case. The following unique ways your attorney can help and get the best possible outcome will give you insight into questions you should be ...

In criminal law, two terms often come up when discussing police stops, searches, and arrests: Reasonable Suspicion vs. Probable Cause. These concepts define what law enforcement can and cannot do when interacting with citizens. Understanding them is essential, especially if you find yourself in a situation where your rights may ...

Domestic assault is a serious criminal charge in Minnesota that can have life-changing consequences. Whether you are seeking to understand the law, protect your rights, or navigate a legal situation, knowing what constitutes domestic assault under Minnesota law is essential. In this article, we’ll break down the definition of domestic ...

In a significant ruling, the Minnesota Supreme Court recently clarified how domestic assault cases are differentiated from non-domestic assault cases, shedding light on the factors that define a "domestic relationship." This distinction is crucial, as domestic assault convictions carry more severe consequences than regular assault charges, such as lifetime bans ...

Navigating a legal issue is daunting, especially when faced with the challenge of finding the right lawyer. Ryan Pacyga, an experienced criminal defense attorney, offers a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision. From avoiding red flags to understanding key qualities to seek, here’s what you need to ...

It’s a scenario no one expects but can quickly become a life-altering experience: You’ve had what you believed was a consensual sexual encounter, and days, weeks, or even months later, a police officer or detective contacts you. What should you do? Criminal defense attorney Ryan Pacyga, who specializes in criminal ...

When faced with allegations of criminal sexual conduct, hiring the right attorney can mean the difference between clearing your name and a devastating conviction. Criminal defense attorney Ryan Pacyga outlines key factors to consider when selecting an attorney for these high-stakes cases. Specialized Experience is Non-Negotiable Sexual conduct cases require ...

If you’re facing a sexual assault charge, your actions in the immediate aftermath can profoundly impact the outcome of your case. The legal process can be unforgiving, and crucial evidence can disappear quickly. Below, we’ll explain what you should do immediately and share real-life stories to highlight why these steps ...

Fraud Charges Minnesota: What You Need to Know Federal officials recently reported a major investigation into Minnesota businesses allegedly involved in a scheme involving immigrants. Christensen Farms, a pork producer, is among those facing Fraud Charges Minnesota. The individuals targeted by federal agents are accused of money laundering and fraud. ...

Depending on the alleged crime, a person who has been arrested and sent to jail to wait for a hearing may be allowed to post bail. For this, they would need to pay a set amount  bond. Once settled, it allows a person accused of a crime a conditional release ...

Marie Pacyga recently achieved a major victory in a challenging domestic assault and domestic strangulation case. Her client, charged with felony assault by domestic strangulation, faced serious consequences if convicted, including a potential prison sentence, housing instability, and a lasting criminal record. This case presented daunting hurdles from the beginning, with ...

Marie Pacyga is a seasoned criminal defense attorney in Minnesota with Ryan Pacyga Criminal Defense Attorneys, practicing throughout Minnesota. With 14 years of experience in the field, Marie Pacyga has a well-rounded perspective, having worked as a judicial clerk before becoming a defense attorney. This early experience taught her invaluable ...

When facing an unexpected arrest, one of the first questions that often arises is, "Do I need a lawyer for my bail hearing?" In this article, we highlight key definitions, as well as when it can be critical to have legal representation at this early stage and when it may ...

Case Overview: A complex healthcare fraud scheme involving millions of dollars put a Texas-based doctor under federal investigation. This case, which exposed abuse of federal programs like Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE, involved key industry players and detailed allegations of fraudulent activities. The scheme’s architects, including Susan Hertzberg of Boston Heart ...

As a criminal defense attorney, I often receive questions about how our legal system works and what happens when cases are appealed. Recently, a notable decision from our Court of Appeals sheds light on a critical issue: "physical control" in DWI cases. Here's a breakdown of the case and what ...

In a significant development, the Minnesota Supreme Court has clarified an important aspect of criminal defense law: the defense of another. This decision has profound implications for how Minnesotans may protect others from harm without facing legal consequences. Defense attorney Ryan Pacyga recently discussed this topic, referencing both a case ...

As a criminal defense attorney, I often encounter cases where the evidence appears strong on the surface, only to reveal hidden issues upon closer scrutiny. Today, I want to share a case where a seemingly straightforward DWI breath test case unraveled due to officer error. This case highlights the importance ...

Frequently, individuals accused of identity theft may have harvested the personal identifying information of total strangers. Those with computer capabilities might attempt to hack a website to access payment information or detailed account information about individual consumers. Individuals who work at nursing homes might collect personal information about vulnerable residents ...

In Minnesota, third-degree criminal sexual conduct cases are often complex, especially when they involve claims of mental incapacitation due to alcohol or drugs. One of the most common charges seen in these cases is third-degree criminal sexual conduct, which can involve situations where the alleged victim was mentally incapacitated at ...

Winter is fast approaching, and for many Minnesotans, that means embracing the season’s chill and snow to the fullest. Whether it's ice fishing, cross-country skiing, or zipping across a snow-covered landscape on a snowmobile, Minnesotans know how to make the most of winter weather. But when this excitement mixes with ...