FAQ2023-03-20T15:33:13+00:00

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I hire a lawyer?2021-03-30T14:19:48+00:00

When you need to hire a lawyer, it makes sense to meet with the lawyer in person for a free consultation. You need to know whether the lawyer has the knowledge and experience to help you. You need to know what the lawyer can do for you and what that will cost. You need to know whether you can put your trust in the lawyer and feel confident that you will be protected. You can usually trust your instincts. If you don’t feel comfortable and confident that this is the right lawyer for you, then you should keep looking. When you make your decision about who will represent you then you should sign a retainer agreement, which is a contract between you and the attorney that makes it clear what the lawyer will do for you, what it will cost, and how the payments will be made. At that point, the lawyer should take over and handle the case for you. That’s all there is to it.

When should I call?2023-07-18T20:23:41+00:00

Call right now. I might be in court or with another client, so if I’m not available when you call I try to make sure that my voicemail greeting explains my schedule for each day so you know when I will be available. If you miss me, please leave a message and I will return your call promptly. I understand that people normally don’t want a call back from the lawyer tomorrow, they want it today. If you are calling about something that can’t wait for a call back, I make every effort to answer urgent calls personally 24/7.

Daily hours: 6am-10pm, however if you are facing a legal problem that requires immediate attention, call now 952-423-8423.

What does a Criminal Defense case cost?2021-03-30T15:02:46+00:00

The initial consultation is free. It doesn’t cost anything to call and talk about what you need. Because every case and client is different, I will need to know what you need done so I can give you a fair price. I often tell people that if I was a house painter and you wanted to know what it would cost to paint your house I would tell you that I need to see your house first so I can give you a fair price. That’s why I need to talk with you about your case before I can tell you what it will cost. Once you know what I can do for you and what it will cost, then you have the information you need to make a decision. I will never pressure anyone into making the decision to work with me.

What kind of criminal cases do you handle?2021-03-30T14:20:23+00:00

I represent people accused of breaking the law in Minnesota. All criminal charges, all Minnesota counties. With over 30 years of courtroom and trial work I have experience in just about everything.

How do I know if I really need a lawyer?2021-03-30T14:20:33+00:00

If I think you can handle your case without spending money on a lawyer, I’ll tell you that. I would much rather have your loyalty and respect than your fee payment, because loyalty and respect can last a lifetime if you earn it. Give me a call at 952-423-8423 to talk about your situation and it should quickly be clear whether you need a lawyer or not.

How do you handle drug charges in Minnesota?2021-03-30T14:29:29+00:00

Under current law, a person with no prior drug convictions can often avoid severe felony consequences for possession of small amounts of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and prescription drugs without a valid prescription. First time drug possession can be charged as a gross misdemeanor if the amount of drugs involved is very small. But charges for possession of larger amounts of illegal drugs are still felonies.

What are the recent changes to Minnesota Drug Possession Laws?2021-03-30T14:29:47+00:00

Effective August 1, 2016, Minnesota laws regarding illegal possession of drugs changed significantly. The laws controlling possession and sale of controlled substances are in Minnesota Statute Chapter 152.

Are first-time drug offenders treated differently Minnesota?2021-03-30T14:21:11+00:00

In many cases, a person charged with illegal drug possession may be eligible for a stay of adjudication under Minn. Stat. 152.18, and thereby avoid being convicted of anything. Under a stay of adjudication, the court can defer prosecution for certain first time drug offenders and not enter a conviction for anything.

What does a Personal Injury case cost?2021-03-30T14:27:09+00:00

The initial consultation is free. It doesn’t cost anything to call and talk about what you need. Most personal injury matters are handled on a contingent fee, which means that the attorney’s fee will be a percentage of the recovery, so I will get paid only if I am able to get a recovery for you. If there is no recovery, then there is no fee.

Is there help for a driving after revocation charge?2023-05-22T18:27:13+00:00

Yes. While each individual’s situation is unique, recent changes to Minnesota law and the expertise of an attorney can get you driving again. Learn More.

Can a search warrant be challenged?2023-05-22T19:45:43+00:00

Ultimately, it is up to a judge whether evidence was legally obtained. It is important to scrutinize whether there was a valid legal basis for the search warrant. Learn More.

Are garbage searches legal?2023-05-22T19:45:36+00:00

Yes, in some cases, but not in every case. There are instances where police have applied for a warrant after finding evidence and have not followed proper procedure. Learn More.

When is it legal to use a police dog to search for drugs?2023-05-22T19:43:55+00:00

Any use of police dog sniffs to determine the presence of drugs must be supported by reasonable, articulable suspicion of drug-related criminal activity. Learn More.

Can evidence found in a drug sniff be used in court?2023-05-22T19:45:21+00:00

Maybe. Police must have sufficient legal justification to bring a dog in for a search. If certain criteria are not met, any evidence found in the search may be suppressed. Learn More.