What Do I Do If I’m Facing Felony Threats of Violence or Terroristic Threats Charges in St. Paul?
Domestic assault charges are frequently some of the most personal and emotional because they frankly hit so close to home. Because they are so emotional, things can be said in the heat of the moment that were never intended, were never meant or were misinterpreted. Further, again because of emotion, people can sometimes make things up that never happened simply because they are so angry, so frustrated. The problem is, once the police are called, these simple acts can result in Minnesota Felony Threats of Violence, also known as Terroristic Threats charges.
For more on Domestic Assault charges
Felony Threats of Violence or Terroristic Threats charges here in Minnesota can commonly be charged during domestic arguments. While a first offense domestic assault may very well be charged as a misdemeanor, Threats of Violence or Terroristic Threats can be charged as a felony even if the person has never been charged with anything and has a completely clean record. If you are a professional or in a position of trust, this could be catastrophic to not just your personal life but also to your profession, your livelihood. For more, contact an experienced Minnesota criminal defense attorney.
What exactly are Minnesota Felony Threats of Violence or Terroristic Threats Charges?
In order for the state to prove Minnesota Threats of Violence or Terroristic Threats, they must prove that a Defendant:
Threatened to commit, directly or indirectly, a crime of violence; and
Made that threat with either
Specific intent to cause extreme fear in another, or
Reckless disregard of the risk that it would have that effect.
Felony terroristic threats or Threats of Violence is usually charged when someone threatens the crime of violence against another person i.e. “I’m going to kill you.”. For the state to prove their case, they would have to prove that one person had the specific intent to terrorize another person or acted in reckless disregard of the risk of causing terror by saying something or doing something. This could be done as a result of words, actions, or even displaying a weapon of some kind.
What Can happen if I am convicted of Minnesota Felony Threats of Violence or Terroristic Threats?
If a Defendant is convicted of Felony Terroristic Threats, they could face:
Up to 5 years in prison;
Up to a $10,000 fine;
Or both.
If you are facing a Felony Terroristic Threats or Threats of Violence charge in Minnesota, it is important that you speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney. St. Paul based Terroristic Threats Attorney and Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist Jack Rice has been representing clients facing these serious charges for decades. Jack can talk to you about your rights, what you are facing, and to make sure you understand the ramifications of what these kinds of charges can mean. Contact Jack Rice Defense for a free confidential consultation or call 651-447-7650 or 612-227-1339