Fighting an Abuse of Toxic Substances Accusation in St. Louis County with a Dedicated Defense Attorney
The moment you’re accused of abusing toxic substances in a place like Duluth, your world can feel like it’s crashing down. One minute, life is normal; the next, you’re facing a criminal charge, the gravity of which can be terrifying, even if it’s a misdemeanor. You might be reeling, wondering how a single accusation could threaten your good name, your livelihood, and your standing in a community you’ve called home for years. The shock is immediate: the fear of judgment from neighbors in Proctor, the potential whispers in Two Harbors, and the worry about how this mark on your record could impact your job or family. This isn’t just about a fine; it’s about your reputation, your freedom to move forward without this dark cloud hanging over you.
An accusation of abuse of toxic substances isn’t a minor inconvenience; it’s a direct challenge to your peace of mind and your future. In Northern Minnesota, where community ties are strong and reputations matter, even a misdemeanor can carry a heavy social weight. You’re suddenly confronted by the immense power of the state, an entity with seemingly endless resources, all focused on proving your guilt. This isn’t a situation to face alone. Your job, your ability to secure housing, and even your standing in local organizations could be on the line. It’s a crisis that demands an immediate, forceful response, and you need an advocate who understands the unique pressures you’re under and is ready to fight for your rights.
The Stakes: What a Conviction Truly Costs
When you are accused of abuse of toxic substances, it’s crucial to understand that a conviction, even for a misdemeanor, carries consequences that reach far beyond a simple fine. This isn’t merely about a slap on the wrist; it’s about the long-term impact on your life, your rights, and your future in communities like Duluth, St. Louis County, and beyond. Understanding these stakes is the first step in realizing the necessity of a vigorous defense.
Your Permanent Criminal Record
A conviction for abuse of toxic substances, even a misdemeanor, becomes a permanent part of your criminal record. This isn’t something that simply fades away over time. Every background check, every job application, every housing inquiry—they can all potentially reveal this conviction. Imagine applying for a new position in Cloquet, or trying to secure a lease in Bemidji, only to have a potential employer or landlord see this mark against your name. It can raise questions, create doubts, and unfairly cast you in a negative light, making it harder to move forward with your life, regardless of the circumstances surrounding the accusation.
Loss of Second Amendment Rights
A misdemeanor conviction for abuse of toxic substances, while not a felony, can still impact your Second Amendment rights. Federal and state laws restrict firearm ownership for individuals convicted of certain misdemeanors, particularly those related to domestic violence or substance abuse. While this specific statute might not directly trigger an immediate federal prohibition, any criminal record, especially one involving “toxic substances,” can become a significant factor in future legal proceedings or when attempting to purchase or possess firearms. Protecting your Second Amendment rights is paramount, and fighting this charge is a crucial step in preserving those freedoms.
Barriers to Employment and Housing
In today’s competitive job market, employers often conduct extensive background checks. A conviction for abuse of toxic substances can be a significant red flag. It might suggest issues with judgment, reliability, or a propensity for substance misuse, making you a less attractive candidate in the eyes of a potential employer. Similarly, landlords in areas like Two Harbors or Proctor often run background checks before approving rental applications. A criminal record, even for a misdemeanor, can be a reason for denial, limiting your housing options and adding unnecessary stress to your life. The fight against this accusation is a fight for your ability to earn a living and find a place to call home.
Impact on Professional Licenses and Reputation
For individuals holding professional licenses, such as those in healthcare, education, or finance, a criminal conviction of any kind can trigger review by licensing boards. Even a misdemeanor for abuse of toxic substances could lead to disciplinary action, including suspension or revocation of your license, jeopardizing your entire career. Beyond professional repercussions, your reputation in your community is invaluable. In a close-knit area like St. Louis County, a criminal charge, even for something seemingly minor, can quickly spread through word of mouth, damaging your standing among friends, neighbors, and colleagues. Protecting your reputation is paramount, and a robust defense is essential to doing so.
The Accusation: Understanding the State’s Case
When the state accuses you of abusing toxic substances, they are not simply making a suggestion. They are building a case against you, and to effectively fight back, you need to understand precisely what they allege and what legal hurdles they must clear. This is not about accepting their version of events; it’s about dissecting it, understanding its components, and identifying its weaknesses.
What Does the State Allege? Abuse of Toxic Substances Explained in Plain English
Being accused of abuse of toxic substances means the state believes you used or possessed certain types of readily available chemicals or products with the specific intention of getting intoxicated, excited, or causing stupefaction to your central nervous system. This isn’t about accidental exposure; it’s about deliberately inhaling or otherwise consuming these substances for a “high.” The law specifically lists substances like certain types of glue, cement, or aerosol paint that contain specific aromatic hydrocarbon solvents, as well as butane or butane lighters. It also includes other similar substances that the commissioner of health declares to be toxic and have a potential for abuse.
The state’s allegation is that you either physically used one of these defined toxic substances to induce an altered state, or you were caught possessing it with that clear intent. For example, if you were found in Duluth with a can of spray paint to your nose, or in Cloquet with a butane lighter openly being used to inhale the gas, you could face this charge. The law specifically excludes common medical uses under doctor’s supervision, focusing instead on recreational misuse.
The Law on the Books: Minnesota Statute 609.684
Minnesota Statute 609.684 aims to prevent the recreational misuse of readily available toxic substances that can cause harm to the central nervous system. It defines specific substances and prohibits their use or possession with the intent to induce intoxication, excitement, or stupefaction.
609.684 ABUSE OF TOXIC SUBSTANCES.
Subdivision 1.Toxic substances. For purposes of this section, “toxic substance” means:
(1) glue, cement, or aerosol paint containing toluene, benzene, xylene, amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, nitrous oxide, or containing other aromatic hydrocarbon solvents, but does not include glue, cement, or paint contained in a packaged kit for the construction of a model automobile, airplane, or similar item;
(2) butane or a butane lighter; or
(3) any similar substance declared to be toxic to the central nervous system and to have a potential for abuse, by a rule adopted by the commissioner of health under chapter 14.
Subd. 2. [Repealed, 1997 c 239 art 3 s 25]
Subd. 3.Use for intoxication prohibited. A person is guilty of a misdemeanor who uses or possesses any toxic substance with the intent of inducing intoxication, excitement, or stupefaction of the central nervous system, except under the direction and supervision of a medical doctor. A person is guilty of a misdemeanor who intentionally aids another in violation of this subdivision.
Subd. 4.Notice required. (a) A business establishment that offers for sale at retail any toxic substance must display a conspicuous sign that contains the following, or substantially similar, language:
“NOTICE
It is a misdemeanor for a person to use or possess glue, cement, aerosol paint, with the intent of inducing intoxication, excitement, or stupefaction of the central nervous system. This use can be harmful or fatal.”
(b) A business establishment may omit from the required notice references to any toxic substance that is not offered for sale by that business establishment.
(c) A business establishment that does not sell any toxic substance listed in subdivision 1 other than butane or butane lighters is not required to post a notice under paragraph (a).
The Prosecution’s Burden: Elements of Abuse of Toxic Substances
In any criminal case, including one for abuse of toxic substances, the state bears the heavy burden of proving every single element of the alleged crime beyond a reasonable doubt. This is not a suggestion; it is a fundamental pillar of our justice system. If the prosecution fails to present sufficient evidence for even one of these elements, then their entire case against you collapses, and you must be found not guilty. This is the bedrock of your defense: holding the state to its constitutional obligation. It’s about meticulously scrutinizing every piece of their evidence and challenging every assertion.
- Uses or Possesses Any Toxic Substance: The prosecution must prove that you either physically used a substance defined as “toxic” under the statute, or you were in possession of it. This element requires the substance to precisely match one of those listed in subdivision 1 of the statute. For instance, if the substance was a different type of glue not containing the specified chemicals, this element may not be met. Mere presence of the substance is not enough; there must be a clear link to your use or possession of it.
- With the Intent of Inducing Intoxication, Excitement, or Stupefaction of the Central Nervous System: This is arguably the most critical element and focuses on your state of mind. The prosecution must prove that your specific intent for using or possessing the toxic substance was to get “high” or to alter your central nervous system. This intent cannot simply be assumed; it must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Circumstantial evidence, such as the manner of use (e.g., sniffing from a bag) or admissions, would be key to the prosecution’s attempt to prove intent.
- Except Under the Direction and Supervision of a Medical Doctor: This is an important exclusionary clause. If the use or possession of the toxic substance was under the specific direction and supervision of a medical doctor for a legitimate medical purpose, then the act is not a violation of the statute. The prosecution would need to prove that your use was not under such medical authority. This highlights situations where individuals might be using prescribed medical gases or other substances for therapeutic reasons.
The Potential Outcome: Penalties for an Abuse of Toxic Substances Conviction
An accusation of abuse of toxic substances, while categorized as a misdemeanor, should be taken with extreme seriousness. The term “misdemeanor” might sound less severe than a felony, but a conviction still carries very real and immediate consequences, impacting your freedom, your finances, and your ability to live your life unimpeded in communities across Northern Minnesota.
- Misdemeanor Penalties: For a conviction of abuse of toxic substances under Minnesota Statute 609.684, Subdivision 3, the law specifies that it is a misdemeanor. This means that potential penalties can include up to 90 days in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. While judges often have discretion in sentencing, the possibility of incarceration is real. Beyond the immediate penalties, a misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can profoundly affect future employment opportunities, housing applications, professional licenses, and even your reputation in communities like Duluth, St. Louis County, and Bemidji.
The Battle Plan: Building Your Strategic Defense
When facing an accusation of abuse of toxic substances, it’s critical to understand that the state’s charge is merely the beginning of a legal process, not the end of your freedom. An accusation is never a conviction. This is where the fight begins, and it is a fight that demands a proactive, strategic counter-offensive. You are not a passive observer in this process; you are the focus, and every action taken from this point forward must be geared towards dismantling the prosecution’s case.
An Accusation is Not a Conviction: The Fight Starts Now
The moment you are accused, the state begins to mobilize its considerable resources against you. Police reports are filed, evidence is collected, and prosecutors begin to build their narrative. But their case is merely one side of the story, often incomplete, and frequently based on assumptions or circumstantial evidence. Your defense isn’t about explaining yourself away; it’s about systematically challenging every facet of their narrative, forcing them to prove their assertions beyond a reasonable doubt, which is a far higher bar than merely making an accusation.
My role is to dissect the state’s case, to find the weaknesses, the procedural errors, and the factual discrepancies that can lead to a dismissal, an acquittal, or a favorable plea. This isn’t a passive process of waiting for the state to make its move; it’s an aggressive, tactical approach. I will scrutinize the police investigation, question witness statements, examine the alleged evidence, and explore every legal avenue to protect your rights. In Duluth, St. Louis County, or anywhere else in Northern Minnesota, you deserve a defense that is as determined as the prosecution, and that’s precisely what you’ll get. The fight for your future starts the moment you are accused, and I am ready to lead that fight.
How an Abuse of Toxic Substances Charge Can Be Challenged in Court
Facing a charge of abuse of toxic substances requires a rigorous defense tailored to the specific details of your case. While the statute might seem straightforward, there are numerous legal avenues to explore for challenging the state’s allegations and protecting your rights.
Lack of Intent to Induce Intoxication
The core of this charge lies in the prosecution proving your specific intent to get high or induce an altered state of mind from the substance. Without this intent, even if you possessed the substance, the charge fails.
- Legitimate Purpose for Possession/Use: This defense argues that you possessed or used the substance for a lawful, non-intoxicating purpose. For example, if you were using glue for a craft project, aerosol paint for graffiti art (if permissible), or butane for refilling a common lighter. The prosecution must demonstrate the intent to inhale, not just use for its intended purpose.
- No Evidence of Intentional Inhalation: The state often relies on circumstantial evidence to prove intent. If there’s no direct evidence of inhalation (e.g., no substance found on your face, no specific implements for huffing, no witnesses seeing the act of inhalation), it weakens the prosecution’s case significantly. Mere presence of the substance is not enough.
- Accidental Exposure/Misunderstanding: In some cases, an individual might have been accidentally exposed to a substance’s fumes, or their behavior might have been misinterpreted. This defense focuses on explaining how the situation was not a deliberate attempt to get high, but rather an unintended consequence or a misunderstanding by observers.
Substance Not “Toxic Substance” as Defined by Statute
The statute explicitly defines what constitutes a “toxic substance.” If the substance you allegedly used or possessed does not precisely meet this definition, the charge cannot stand.
- Chemical Composition Discrepancy: For glues, cements, and aerosol paints, the statute specifies particular chemical components (toluene, benzene, xylene, amyl nitrate, butyl nitrate, nitrous oxide, or other aromatic hydrocarbon solvents). If laboratory analysis shows the substance in question does not contain these specific chemicals, it is not a “toxic substance” under the law.
- Not a Listed Substance: If the substance is not glue, cement, aerosol paint with the specified chemicals, or butane/butane lighter, the prosecution must show it was declared “toxic to the central nervous system and to have a potential for abuse” by a rule adopted by the commissioner of health. If no such rule exists for the specific substance, the charge fails.
- Packaged Kit Exemption: The statute explicitly exempts “glue, cement, or paint contained in a packaged kit for the construction of a model automobile, airplane, or similar item.” If the substance was part of such a kit, it is not considered a toxic substance for the purposes of this law.
Medical Supervision Exception
The law specifically carves out an exception for use “under the direction and supervision of a medical doctor.” This is a complete defense if applicable.
- Doctor’s Prescription or Order: If a medical doctor prescribed or ordered the use of a substance (like nitrous oxide for medical purposes) that falls under the statute’s definition, then your use was lawful. Medical records and doctor’s testimony would be crucial evidence.
- Ongoing Medical Treatment: Even if not a formal “prescription,” if the substance was part of an ongoing medical treatment or procedure overseen by a medical doctor, this exception applies. This would cover a range of medical or dental uses where such substances are legitimately administered.
- Emergency Medical Necessity: In rare emergency situations, if a substance was used to induce a necessary medical state under the direct guidance of medical personnel, it would fall outside the scope of illicit abuse. This applies to situations where immediate medical intervention requires the use of a substance that might otherwise be considered “toxic” under the statute.
Unlawful Search and Seizure
If the evidence against you was obtained through an illegal search or seizure by law enforcement, that evidence can be suppressed, potentially leading to the dismissal of your case.
- Lack of Probable Cause: Police must have probable cause to search you, your vehicle, or your property. If they searched without a warrant and without a valid exception (like plain view or exigent circumstances), any evidence found may be inadmissible.
- Invalid Warrant: If a search warrant was obtained, it must be legally valid, based on sufficient probable cause, and executed properly. Challenges to the warrant’s validity or execution can lead to suppression of evidence.
- No Reasonable Suspicion for Stop: If the initial stop that led to the discovery of the toxic substance was made without reasonable suspicion or probable cause, then all subsequent evidence gathered may be considered “fruit of the poisonous tree” and excluded from court.
Defense in Action: Scenarios in Northern Minnesota
Understanding the law is one thing; seeing how a strategic defense can be applied in real-world situations across Northern Minnesota is another. These scenarios demonstrate how the principles of challenging the state’s case translate into actionable defense strategies.
Scenario 1: Accusation in Bemidji Following a Craft Project
A college student in Bemidji is working on an art project involving extensive use of a strong adhesive glue. While waiting for parts to dry, they become lightheaded from the fumes. A roommate, noticing their dazed state and the strong smell of glue, mistakenly believes the student is intentionally abusing the substance and calls the police.
In this situation, the defense would focus on the lack of intent to induce intoxication. The student was using the glue for its legitimate purpose—an art project. The lightheadedness was an accidental side effect of working in a poorly ventilated area, not an intentional act to get high. Evidence would include the art project itself, testimony from art instructors, and perhaps medical documentation of sensitivity to fumes, all demonstrating that the intent was not to abuse the substance.
Scenario 2: Unfounded Claim in Cloquet During a Home Renovation
A homeowner in Cloquet is using aerosol paint to touch up some outdoor furniture in their backyard. The wind picks up, causing some overspray and a strong odor to drift towards a neighbor’s yard. The neighbor, misinterpreting the situation, calls the police, reporting the smell of chemicals and alleging substance abuse.
Here, the defense would primarily center on the legitimate purpose for possession/use and the lack of intent to induce intoxication. The homeowner was using the aerosol paint for its intended purpose of painting furniture. The overspray and odor were environmental factors, not indicative of intentional abuse. Photographs of the furniture project, receipts for the paint, and even testimony about the windy conditions would support the argument that the use was legitimate and not aimed at intoxication.
Scenario 3: Butane Lighter Use in Two Harbors Under Scrutiny
A person in Two Harbors uses a butane lighter to light a grill at a public picnic area. While struggling to ignite the grill, they hold the lighter close to their face for a moment to ensure it’s lit, and an onlooker misinterprets this action as an attempt to inhale the butane, calling the authorities.
The defense in this case would emphasize the lack of intent to induce intoxication and the legitimate purpose for possession/use. The butane lighter was being used for its intended, lawful purpose – lighting a grill. The brief proximity to the face was for practical reasons related to lighting the grill, not for inhaling the gas. Witness testimony from anyone else present at the picnic, or even a demonstration of how the lighter works for a grill, could help illustrate the legitimate use and counter the claim of intent to abuse.
Scenario 4: Misinterpretation of Nitrous Oxide Use in Duluth
A dental hygienist in Duluth is on a day off and is at a party where balloons are being used for harmless recreational purposes (e.g., helium balloons). Due to their profession, they are familiar with nitrous oxide and jokingly comment about it. An eavesdropping individual misinterprets the conversation and the presence of balloons as a sign of nitrous oxide abuse, reporting it to the police.
This scenario would focus on the substance not being “toxic substance” as defined by statute and lack of intent. The balloons in question likely contained helium, not nitrous oxide. Even if nitrous oxide was discussed, its mere mention or even possession in a medical context would fall under the medical supervision exception. The defense would require clear identification of the gas in the balloons (e.g., through laboratory testing if seized) and testimony about the nature of the conversation or the source of the balloons, proving that no toxic substance was abused or possessed with intent to get high.
The Advocate: Why a Dedicated Duluth Defense Attorney is Essential
When you are accused of abuse of toxic substances, especially in Northern Minnesota, you are not just facing a charge; you are facing the immense machinery of the state. From the local police department in Proctor to the county prosecutor’s office in St. Louis County, they have resources, experience, and a singular goal: to secure a conviction. This is not a fair fight to undertake alone. You need a dedicated criminal defense attorney who understands the local legal landscape in places like Duluth and Two Harbors, who knows how to counter the state’s power, and who will relentlessly fight for your story and your future.
Countering the Resources of the State
The state possesses vast resources when it comes to prosecuting criminal cases. They have dedicated investigators, forensic experts, and a team of seasoned prosecutors, all funded by taxpayer dollars. They can spend countless hours building their case against you, gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and preparing their arguments. This asymmetry of resources can be incredibly daunting for an individual facing a charge. A dedicated defense attorney acts as your personal counter-force, leveling the playing field. I will deploy my knowledge, experience, and strategic acumen to scrutinize every piece of the prosecution’s evidence, challenge their assumptions, and identify the weaknesses in their case that they hope you won’t discover. This isn’t just about showing up in court; it’s about a proactive, aggressive approach to dismantle their narrative brick by brick, ensuring that their vast resources don’t overwhelm your rights.
Strategic Command of the St. Louis County Courts
Navigating the local court systems in St. Louis County, from Duluth to its smaller municipalities, requires more than just a basic understanding of the law. It demands an intimate knowledge of the local procedures, the unwritten rules, the tendencies of specific judges, and the negotiating styles of the prosecutors. Every courthouse has its own unique rhythm and nuances. A dedicated defense attorney brings this vital institutional knowledge to your case, allowing for strategic decision-making at every turn. I know the local landscape, from the intricacies of plea bargaining in Duluth to the specific evidentiary standards applied in different courtrooms in Bemidji or Cloquet. This strategic command means anticipating the prosecution’s moves, understanding the best avenues for negotiation, and knowing when to push for a trial. It’s about more than just legal theory; it’s about practical, on-the-ground experience that can make all the difference in your outcome.
Fighting for Your Story, Not Just the Police Report
When a police report is filed for an abuse of toxic substances charge, it presents a one-sided narrative—the state’s version of events. This report, often concise and focused on perceived guilt, rarely captures the full context, the nuances, or your actual intentions. It’s a snapshot, not the whole picture. Without a dedicated advocate, this police report can become the prevailing narrative, shaping how judges, prosecutors, and even juries perceive your situation. My role is to ensure your complete story is heard, understood, and championed. I will diligently investigate the circumstances leading to the charge, uncover details that the police may have overlooked, and meticulously gather evidence that supports your defense. This involves interviewing witnesses, reviewing any available surveillance footage, and building a compelling counter-narrative that highlights your innocence, the accidental nature of the event, or the existence of lawful permission. I don’t just defend against a charge; I fight to tell your truth.
An Unwavering Commitment to a Winning Result
Facing any criminal accusation, even a misdemeanor for abuse of toxic substances, is a deeply personal and often terrifying experience. The uncertainty, the stress, and the fear of a permanent mark on your record can be overwhelming. During this challenging time, you need more than just legal counsel; you need an unwavering commitment from your defense attorney. My commitment to you means tirelessly pursuing the best possible outcome for your case, whether that’s a dismissal of charges, an acquittal at trial, or a reduction to a less severe offense. This involves meticulous preparation, aggressive negotiation, and fearless advocacy in court. My focus is entirely on achieving a winning result for you, ensuring that this accusation does not define your future or leave a lasting stain on your life in Northern Minnesota. Your peace of mind and your future are my top priorities, and I will fight relentlessly to protect them.
Your Questions Answered
What is considered a “toxic substance” under this law?
Under Minnesota Statute 609.684, a “toxic substance” includes glues, cements, or aerosol paints containing specific aromatic hydrocarbon solvents (like toluene, benzene, xylene), butane or butane lighters, and any other similar substance declared toxic by the commissioner of health with potential for abuse.
Is using a marker to get high considered abuse of toxic substances?
If the marker contains one of the specific chemical compounds listed in the statute (toluene, benzene, xylene, etc.), and you use it with the intent to get intoxicated, then yes, it could be considered abuse of toxic substances. The key is the chemical composition and your intent.
What if I have a prescription for the substance?
If you are using or possessing a substance under the direct supervision and direction of a medical doctor for a legitimate medical purpose, then you are explicitly exempt from this statute. Medical records and doctor’s testimony would be crucial evidence.
Can I be charged if I just possess the substance, but don’t use it?
Yes, the statute states that a person is guilty of a misdemeanor if they “possess any toxic substance with the intent of inducing intoxication, excitement, or stupefaction.” The intent to get high is the critical element, even if the act of use hasn’t occurred yet.
What are the potential jail times for this offense?
A conviction for abuse of toxic substances is a misdemeanor, which carries a potential penalty of up to 90 days in jail. While not every conviction results in jail time, it is a significant possibility that must be taken seriously.
Will this charge appear on my criminal record?
Yes, a conviction for abuse of toxic substances, even as a misdemeanor, will result in a permanent criminal record. This record is publicly accessible through background checks and can impact various aspects of your life in Duluth, St. Louis County, and beyond.
Can this affect my ability to get a job?
Absolutely. Many employers conduct background checks, and a criminal conviction for abuse of toxic substances can be a significant red flag, making it challenging to secure employment. It suggests issues with judgment and reliability.
How does intent factor into this charge?
Intent is the most crucial element. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you used or possessed the toxic substance with the intent of inducing intoxication, excitement, or stupefaction. Without proof of this specific intent, the charge fails.
What if I was unaware the substance was toxic?
Ignorance of the substance’s toxic properties or its potential for abuse generally isn’t a strong defense, as the law focuses on the intent to induce intoxication. However, if you genuinely did not intend to get high, that is the central point of defense.
Can my belongings be searched if I’m suspected of this crime?
Law enforcement generally needs probable cause or your consent to search your belongings. If they conduct a search without a warrant and without a valid exception, any evidence found may be inadmissible in court due to unlawful search and seizure.
What’s the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony?
A misdemeanor is a less serious crime than a felony, typically carrying a maximum jail sentence of one year or less and smaller fines. Felonies carry potential prison sentences of over a year and much higher fines, along with more severe long-term consequences.
Can I get this charge expunged from my record?
It may be possible to get a misdemeanor for abuse of toxic substances expunged from your record in Minnesota, but there are specific eligibility requirements and waiting periods. An attorney can assess your eligibility and guide you through the expungement process.
How long does the legal process take for this type of charge?
The length of the legal process for an abuse of toxic substances charge can vary significantly based on the complexity of the case, court dockets, and whether it proceeds to trial or is resolved through negotiation. It can range from a few weeks to several months.
Should I talk to the police if they question me?
No. If questioned by the police regarding abuse of toxic substances, you should politely but firmly assert your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. Any statements you make can be used against you in court.
How can a Duluth defense attorney help me with this charge?
A dedicated Duluth defense attorney will scrutinize the evidence, challenge the prosecution’s claim of intent, explore medical exceptions, and argue for suppression of unlawfully obtained evidence. My goal is to secure a dismissal, acquittal, or a favorable outcome that protects your future in Northern Minnesota.