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Explore expert legal insights, case studies, and defense tips from Ryan Pacyga Criminal Defense. Stay informed on Minnesota criminal law updates.
When your freedom – or someone you love – is on the line, what happens on the judge’s desk can matter more than what happens in front of the judge’s bench. Most people picture courtroom drama the way TV shows do: lawyers on their feet, arguing passionately while the judge bangs a gavel. What you […]
Team Defense: Courtroom Presence, Legal Writing, and Protecting Your Future Read More »
Alex* spent nearly two years listening for footsteps in the hallway, wondering if this was the moment everything would come crashing down. He hadn’t been charged with a crime. But a criminal sexual conduct investigation hung over his head, triggered by accusations from his ex-wife in the middle of a contentious custody battle. How It
When life takes an unexpected and bewildering turn, finding the right support can make all the difference. For Justin and Katy, what began as a terrifying episode with unforeseen legal consequences became a journey of healing and hope—thanks to the guidance, professionalism, and empathy of Marie Pacyga and her team. A Crisis Like No Other
Mental Health, the Legal System, and the Power of the Right Advocate Read More »
If you or a loved one are facing a tough legal situation—whether it’s a criminal case, personal injury, or any other type of litigation—sometimes it feels like you’re carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders. I know, because every week, I see what my clients go through, and I do everything I can
Finding Support and Hope During Legal Challenges: Lessons From a Saturday Jail Visit Read More »
When people think about criminal charges, most imagine only the person who directly commits a crime facing legal consequences. However, Minnesota law, and the laws in many other states, also hold others responsible if they play a role in helping bring about that crime. This is called “aiding and abetting,” and it can lead to
When people think of federal court, they often imagine the worst-case scenario — long prison sentences, harsh guidelines, and little room for mercy. And to be fair, that reputation isn’t far off. Federal sentencing guidelines are notoriously tough, with mandatory minimums that can run 10, 15, 20 years — or even life. But not every
How to Get a Lower Sentence in Federal Court Read More »
When people hear “criminal sexual conduct,” most think guilt first and facts later. That snap judgment makes these cases some of the hardest in criminal defense. It is also exactly why we do them. Below is a candid look at why many lawyers steer clear of these cases, and how our team approaches them differently.
Why Some Attorneys Avoid Criminal Sexual Conduct Cases — and Why We Don’t Read More »
•Names have been changed to protect privacy. When the phone call came, Pat* was on a trip out East with his son. A police officer had stopped by his home and left a message to call back. Soon after, he was served. A no-contact order. A criminal complaint – Criminal Sexual Conduct. Pages of allegations
Born for the Storm: Pat’s Journey to Not Guilty and a New Life Read More »
“My advice? Find someone who has the life you want and stop talking—start listening.” Ian remembers the exact date his old life ended: September 29, 2023. Married with three young kids, the CEO of a successful company, a volunteer firefighter, and a church council member—he had perfected the art of switching personas, one polished role
When news breaks about major fraud cases, people often see headlines about indictments, guilty pleas, trials or investigations — but few understand the critical legal distinctions behind those terms. Recently, Ryan Pacyga Criminal Defense represented a client who was charged in federal court for fraud connected to both the Minnesota autism services program and Feeding
What Is a Federal “Information” and Why It Matters in Fraud Cases Read More »