During the first hearing, known as the arraignment, the judge will ensure you understand your rights, including the right to remain silent and the right to counsel, as well as the charges that have been levied against you. You will also have the opportunity to enter a guilty or not guilty plea, and the court will establish the conditions of your release.

Depending on the specifics of your case and the severity of your charges, the judge may impose bail or bond, travel restrictions, or house arrest. We strive to secure our clients’ release whenever possible on the day of the arraignment.

During this hearing, the court may decide if there is probable cause to believe you committed the crime. Both sides can present evidence, including testimony from the arresting officer. Having an experienced attorney is crucial to defending your rights and effectively cross-examining the officer.

An omnibus hearing allows our attorneys to seek dismissal of your charges, request the exclusion of certain evidence, and pursue legal remedies under the constitution.

During this hearing, the court may decide if there is probable cause to believe you committed the crime. Both sides can present evidence, including testimony from the arresting officer. Having an experienced attorney is crucial to defending your rights and effectively cross-examining the officer.

Before a case goes to trial, a pre-trial conference is held where the prosecution and defense discuss possible resolutions. These resolutions may include:

• Pleading guilty as charged
• Pleading guilty to amended charges
• Dismissing the charges upon completing a diversion program such as rehab
• Dismissing the charges without conditions

If no resolution is reached during the pre-trial phase, the case proceeds to trial. Depending on your situation, you could have a jury or court trial.

In a jury trial, the prosecution must prove your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt to achieve a conviction. After both sides present their cases, the jury must reach a unanimous verdict. In a court trial, the judge alone decides your case.

During the trial, your defense attorney will present evidence, call witnesses, and argue to cast reasonable doubt on the prosecution’s case. As experienced trial attorneys, Wolfgram Law Firm shines in this area. We understand all of the ins and outs of Minneapolis criminal trials and how to use this knowledge to ensure you will receive the most positive outcome.

Sentencing occurs only if the jury or court reaches a guilty verdict or if the defendant pleads guilty. When determining an appropriate sentence, the judge will consider state sentencing guidelines, the crime’s impact on victims, and other case facts.

Both the defense and prosecution will present their positions on sentencing. Our attorneys aim to secure the lowest possible sentences for our clients, leveraging extensive experience in making successful sentencing arguments.

During this hearing, the court may decide if there is probable cause to believe you committed the crime. Both sides can present evidence, including testimony from the arresting officer. Having an experienced attorney is crucial to defending your rights and effectively cross-examining the officer.