Criminal Damage

Criminal damage is the act of intentionally causing damage to another person’s property without their permission. If you have been charged with criminal damage, you could be facing very serious consequences. When you have a Duluth criminal damage lawyer in your corner, there is an improved chance that you will receive a much more favorable outcome.

At Andrew, Bransky, & Poole, P.A., we will fight for your future while protecting your rights. Whether it’s a case of mistaken identity or something did happen, you deserve the best possible defense so you can receive a favorable outcome. It is possible to have the charges reduced, or dismissed, or you could be acquitted if the case goes to court. There are many possibilities and we will explore all of them.

There are four degrees of criminal damage and they are as follows:

• First-Degree Criminal Damage – The property belongs to a common carrier or there was a foreseeable and reasonable risk of bodily harm or the property value was reduced by $1,000. This felony also applies to repeat offenders if the damage was 4500 or more. The penalty is $10,000 in fines and 5 years in prison.
• Second-Degree Criminal Damage – The property value was reduced between $500 and $1,000 and the act was motivated by discrimination (age, race, sex, etc.). If convicted, the penalty is $3,000 in fines and one year and one day in prison.
• Third-Degree Criminal Damage – The property damage is between $500 and $1,000 and was motivated by bias. The property value is to not exceed $500. The penalties for this gross misdemeanor are $3,000 in fines and one year in jail.
• Fourth-Degree Criminal Damage – this misdemeanor covers property damage that is not defined by the other three degrees. The penalty is a $1,000 fine and 90 days in jail.

The charges are severe and can have long-term effects on your life. The goal is for you to receive the best outcome possible. When you have an experienced Northern Minnesota criminal damage attorney representing you, there is a greater chance that you will move on with your life much sooner than you would otherwise.

Criminal damage is a serious offense, although it may not seem this way to some. If you or a loved one has been accused of criminal damage, it’s important to seek the representation of a criminal lawyer as soon as possible. Call Andrew & Poole, P.A. at 218-722-1764  to request a free consultation to learn more about your rights and options.