Up North Lawyer

Geographic Restriction

Fighting a Geographic Restriction Accusation in St. Louis County with a Dedicated Defense Attorney

The moment you realize you’re facing an accusation of violating a geographic restriction order, your world can feel like it’s been turned upside down. In a place like Duluth, where daily life involves movement through various areas, or in the tighter-knit communities of Two Harbors or Proctor, suddenly being told you can’t go somewhere you might need to be can be bewildering and deeply frustrating. You’re now confronting the power of the state for an act you might not have fully understood, or one that occurred under confusing circumstances. The immediate fears are real: the potential for further criminal penalties, the disruption to your job or family life, and the damage to your reputation in a community that values order. This isn’t the end of your life; it’s the beginning of a fight, and you need a formidable advocate in that battle.

In communities like Bemidji or Cloquet, where court orders are taken seriously, a geographic restriction violation accusation can quickly draw unwelcome attention and lead to judgment. People may not understand the complexities of such orders or the personal hardships they can create. The state will pursue this charge, viewing it as a direct defiance of a court order, which can carry significant weight with prosecutors and judges. Without a strong, strategic defense, you risk being overwhelmed by the system and suffering consequences that linger long after the initial accusation. This is not a time for passive acceptance; it’s a moment to stand up, fight back, and secure the unwavering commitment of an attorney dedicated to your defense.

The Stakes: What a Conviction Truly Costs

A criminal conviction for violating a geographic restriction order, even if it’s a misdemeanor, extends far beyond the immediate penalties handed down in a courtroom. It leaves a mark that can impact various aspects of your life, making the fight against these charges absolutely essential.

Your Permanent Criminal Record

A misdemeanor conviction for violating a geographic restriction order becomes a permanent part of your criminal record. This isn’t something that simply disappears over time; it is a permanent entry that can be accessed by various entities. This record is readily available to potential employers, landlords, and even educational institutions, creating potential hurdles in your future. While a misdemeanor might seem minor, it can still diminish your prospects for certain jobs, particularly those requiring background checks or positions of trust. It can also complicate your ability to secure housing, as landlords may be wary of tenants with a criminal record, even for what seems like a minor offense. The fight for your future starts now, to prevent this mark from defining you.

Loss of Second Amendment Rights

While a misdemeanor conviction for violating a geographic restriction does not automatically lead to the permanent loss of Second Amendment rights, it’s crucial to understand the broader implications of any criminal record. Certain underlying offenses that led to the initial geographic restriction might carry firearm prohibitions, and a violation of a court order could be viewed negatively in any future legal proceedings related to firearms. For individuals in Northern Minnesota, where hunting, sport shooting, and personal protection are often integral parts of life and culture, protecting a clean record is important to safeguard all constitutional rights and avoid any potential complications.

Barriers to Employment and Housing

The existence of a criminal conviction on your record for violating a geographic restriction can create unexpected barriers to both employment and housing. Many employers conduct background checks, and a conviction, even for a misdemeanor, can raise questions about your judgment, reliability, and respect for legal orders. This might make it more challenging to secure certain jobs or promotions. Similarly, landlords often run background checks on prospective tenants. A conviction for violating a court order, even if seemingly minor, could lead to a landlord denying an application, limiting your housing options and potentially forcing you into less desirable living situations. This conviction can impact your ability to secure stable employment and a secure home.

Impact on Professional Licenses and Reputation

For those holding professional licenses or working in fields that require a high degree of trust and adherence to legal standards, any criminal conviction, including for violating a geographic restriction, can have an impact. While less likely to be a direct cause for revocation than a felony, licensing boards may review such convictions to assess character and fitness. Beyond professional licenses, the damage to your personal and professional reputation can be significant. In close-knit communities like those found throughout St. Louis County, a criminal accusation and conviction for violating a court order can lead to social ostracism, damage relationships, and alter how you are perceived by friends, family, and colleagues. The fight to protect your future is a fight to protect your livelihood and your good name.

The Accusation: Understanding the State’s Case

Facing a charge of Geographic Restriction violation means understanding precisely what the state claims you did and how they intend to prove it. This is where the legal battle truly begins—by dissecting the accusation and preparing to dismantle it.

What Does the State Allege? Geographic Restriction Explained in Plain English

When the state brings a charge of violating a geographic restriction, they are alleging that you knowingly entered or remained in an area that a court order specifically prohibited you from entering. This isn’t a general “stay away” order; it’s a formal court-issued mandate that defines a specific property or geographic area you cannot enter. These orders are put in place for various reasons, often to protect public safety or property, and they can be issued as part of a pretrial release, a probationary condition, or as a standalone order.

An accusation means the prosecution believes they have evidence that you were fully aware of this specific court order and its boundaries, yet you intentionally crossed into or remained within that restricted area. This could involve returning to a specific address, entering a designated neighborhood, or going into a public space that has been specifically outlined in the court order. The law, as applied in places like Duluth, Proctor, or Two Harbors, aims to ensure that court orders designed to protect communities are respected and followed.

The Law on the Books: Minnesota Statute 609.6057

Minnesota Statute 609.6057, titled “GEOGRAPHIC RESTRICTION,” establishes the legal framework for court-ordered prohibitions on entering designated properties or geographic areas. Its purpose is to enhance public safety and protect property by restricting individuals from locations where their presence might pose a risk. The statute defines what a geographic restriction is, outlines the conditions under which it can be issued, and specifies the penalty for its violation across Minnesota, including in St. Louis County.

Subdivision 1.Definition. As used in this section, "geographic restriction" means a limitation prohibiting a defendant in a criminal proceeding or a juvenile offender in a delinquency proceeding from entering a designated property or geographic area.
Subd. 2.Prohibited conduct; penalty. A person who knows of a geographic restriction order issued against the person and intentionally enters or remains in the restricted area is guilty of a misdemeanor.
Subd. 3.Notice. (a) A geographic restriction may be issued as a pretrial order before final disposition of the underlying criminal case, as a postconviction probationary order, or both. A geographic restriction order is independent of any condition of pretrial release or probation imposed on the defendant. A geographic restriction order may be issued in addition to a similar restriction imposed as a condition of pretrial release or probation.
    (b) A court may issue a geographic restriction upon a finding that its issuance will serve the interests of protecting public safety or property. In making that determination, a court shall consider the following factors:
    (1) whether a defendant's presence in a restricted area creates a risk to public safety or property;
    (2) a defendant's criminal history;
    (3) the likelihood of future criminal activity within the restricted area; and
    (4) any other factors deemed relevant by the court.
    (c) A court may grant any exceptions to a geographic restriction that it deems necessary in order to avoid the imposition of a significant hardship upon a defendant. In determining whether to grant an exception, a court shall also consider the impact of the exception on the interests of protecting public safety or property.
    (d) A geographic restriction order under this section shall be issued in a proceeding that is separate from but which may be held immediately following a proceeding in which any pretrial release or sentencing issues are decided.
    (e) A court issuing a geographic restriction order under this section shall notify a defendant:
    (1) of the area subject to a geographic restriction; and
    (2) that violation of the geographic restriction order is a crime.
Subd. 4.Cancellation. (a) A court shall cancel a pretrial geographic restriction order at the final disposition of the underlying criminal case.
    (b) A court shall cancel a postconviction geographic restriction order when an offender completes a period of probationary supervision or is committed to the commissioner of corrections.
    (c) A court may cancel a postconviction geographic restriction order at any time during which an offender is under probationary supervision.

The Prosecution’s Burden: Elements of Geographic Restriction

For the state to secure a conviction for violating a Geographic Restriction order, the prosecution must prove every single element of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt. This is a formidable burden, and if a skilled defense attorney can demonstrate that even one element has not been proven, the entire case against you must fail. This is the cornerstone of your defense, and understanding these elements is critical to dismantling the state’s case piece by piece.

  • Existence of a Valid Geographic Restriction Order: The prosecution must first prove that a legitimate geographic restriction order was legally issued against you in a criminal or delinquency proceeding. This means presenting the actual court order, which must clearly define the restricted area and have been issued by a court upon a finding that it serves public safety or property interests, considering factors like your criminal history and likelihood of future activity. If the order itself was improperly issued or lacked clarity, it can be challenged.
  • Defendant’s Knowledge of the Order: Crucially, the state must prove that you knew of the geographic restriction order. This goes beyond simply assuming you were told. The statute specifically states that the court issuing the order “shall notify a defendant” of the restricted area and that its violation is a crime. If there is no proof you were properly notified, or if the notification was unclear or confusing, this element can be challenged. Your defense will scrutinize the record to ensure proper notice was given.
  • Intentional Entry or Remaining in Restricted Area: The prosecution must prove that you intentionally entered or remained in the restricted area. This means your presence within the prohibited zone was not accidental, involuntary, or due to circumstances beyond your control. If you unknowingly crossed a boundary, or if you were forced into the area, this element may not be met. The state must demonstrate a deliberate act of entering or staying within the forbidden zone.
  • Presence Within the Designated Property or Geographic Area: The prosecution must definitively prove that you were, in fact, present within the specific “designated property or geographic area” as defined by the court order. This requires precise mapping and evidence of your location. If the boundaries of the restriction were vague, or if the evidence of your presence within those exact boundaries is questionable, your defense will challenge this element, ensuring that the state proves you were where they claim you were.

The Potential Outcome: Penalties for a Geographic Restriction Conviction

A conviction for violating a Geographic Restriction order in Minnesota is a serious matter, carrying direct criminal penalties and other significant consequences that can impact your life, your freedom, and your ongoing legal standing. This offense is classified as a misdemeanor.

  • Misdemeanor Conviction: A conviction under Minnesota Statute 609.6057, Subdivision 2, results in a misdemeanor. In Minnesota, a misdemeanor can lead to a sentence of up to 90 days in county jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. While it might not seem as severe as a felony, any time in jail is a disruption to your life, and the fine adds a financial burden.
  • Impact on Underlying Criminal Case/Probation: A conviction for violating a geographic restriction can have serious repercussions for the underlying criminal case or probationary period that led to the order in the first place.
    • Pretrial Order Violation: If the geographic restriction was a pretrial order, violating it can lead to revocation of your pretrial release, meaning you could be held in custody until your underlying case is resolved. It also reflects negatively on your willingness to follow court orders, potentially influencing bail decisions or future plea negotiations.
    • Probation Violation: If the geographic restriction was a condition of post-conviction probation, a violation can trigger a probation revocation hearing. If your probation is revoked, you could face the imposition of the original suspended sentence for the underlying crime, which could include significant jail or prison time. This is a very serious consequence.
  • New Criminal Record Entry: A misdemeanor conviction for violating the order will appear as a separate entry on your criminal record. This permanent mark can negatively affect your ability to secure employment, housing, and impact your reputation in communities like Duluth, St. Louis County, and the surrounding areas. It adds another layer to your criminal history.
  • Increased Legal Scrutiny: Once you have a conviction for violating a geographic restriction, it signals to future courts and prosecutors that you may be unwilling to comply with court orders. This can lead to increased scrutiny, stricter conditions, and less favorable treatment in any subsequent legal proceedings you might face.

The Battle Plan: Building Your Strategic Defense

An accusation is not a conviction. This is the unwavering truth that guides every step of the defense strategy. When facing a charge of violating a geographic restriction order, it might feel like a trap, especially if you believe you didn’t intentionally break the rule. But the reality is that any criminal charge can have profound and lasting consequences. The state has made an accusation, and that accusation is merely the starting gun for a rigorous, strategic counter-offensive designed to protect your rights, challenge every piece of the prosecution’s narrative, and secure your freedom. This is not a moment for passive acceptance; it is a moment for a relentless, proactive defense.

The state’s case, no matter how straightforward it may appear, is built on evidence that must be meticulously tested, scrutinized, and often, dismantled. Every court document, every witness statement, every piece of GPS data—all of it is subject to intense challenge. Your defense is not about merely reacting to the prosecution; it’s about taking command of the narrative, exposing weaknesses in their arguments, and presenting a compelling case that highlights reasonable doubt or outright innocence. This is where a dedicated Duluth defense attorney steps in, transforming a daunting legal challenge into a strategic battle that you are equipped to win. The fight begins the moment you face that charge, and it will be fought with unwavering commitment to your defense.

How a Geographic Restriction Charge Can Be Challenged in Court

A charge of violating a Geographic Restriction order can be challenged on multiple fronts, particularly focusing on the elements the prosecution must prove. A skilled defense attorney will meticulously examine every detail of the state’s case to identify weaknesses and build a robust defense strategy tailored to your situation.

  • Lack of Knowledge of the Order or Its Boundaries:The law requires that you “knows of a geographic restriction order.” This means you must have been properly informed of the order and the precise boundaries of the restricted area. If there’s ambiguity or a failure in notification, the prosecution cannot prove this crucial element.
    • Inadequate Notice: The court might not have properly or clearly notified you of the order’s specifics, or the paperwork provided was confusing or incomplete. If the notice wasn’t clear, you cannot truly “know” of the restriction.
    • Vague Boundaries: The restricted area might have been described in vague terms (e.g., “the neighborhood”) without clear, identifiable boundaries, making it impossible to know if you were in violation.
    • Language Barrier/Misunderstanding: If there was a language barrier or a genuine misunderstanding of the order’s terms due to cognitive or communication issues, it can be argued that you lacked the necessary knowledge.
  • Lack of Intentional Entry or Remaining:You must have intentionally entered or remained in the restricted area. This means your presence there was deliberate, not accidental or involuntary. If your presence was unintentional, or due to circumstances beyond your control, this element may not be met.
    • Accidental Entry: You may have inadvertently driven, walked, or been transported through the restricted area without realizing it, especially if the boundaries are not clearly marked by physical barriers.
    • Emergency Situation: You may have entered the restricted area due to a genuine emergency (e.g., a medical emergency for yourself or another, seeking immediate shelter from danger), where your entry was not a defiant act but a necessary one.
    • Forced Entry/Coercion: You may have been unwillingly brought into the restricted area by another person, or coerced into entering, negating the intentional aspect of your presence.
  • Dispute Over the Designated Area:The prosecution must prove you were in the specific “designated property or geographic area” as defined by the court order. If the evidence cannot conclusively place you within those exact boundaries, or if the boundaries themselves are legally flawed, the charge should fail.
    • Incorrect Mapping/GPS Data: The prosecution’s evidence (e.g., GPS data, cell phone pings) might inaccurately place you, or the mapping used by the court order itself could be flawed or imprecise.
    • Overly Broad/Unreasonable Restriction: While the court has discretion, an attorney could argue that the restricted area was excessively broad or unreasonable, making it difficult to comply without undue hardship, or that it was not clearly defined.
    • Lack of Proof of Presence: The state may simply lack sufficient, reliable evidence to prove you were physically within the restricted area at the time of the alleged violation.
  • Authorized Exception to the Restriction:The statute allows courts to grant “exceptions” to a geographic restriction to avoid “significant hardship” upon a defendant, while still considering public safety. If you had a valid reason to be in the area and attempted to seek or received an exception, this can be a strong defense.
    • Prior Granted Exception: You may have received an exception from the court (e.g., for work, medical appointments, family emergencies) that covered your presence in the restricted area at the time of the alleged violation.
    • Reasonable Belief in Exception: You may have had a reasonable, good-faith belief that an exception applied to your situation, even if official paperwork wasn’t immediately present.
    • Attempt to Seek Exception: You may have attempted to seek an exception through proper channels but faced delays or miscommunication, and your presence was a result of that process, not defiance.

Defense in Action: Scenarios in Northern Minnesota

Applying legal principles to real-world situations in communities like Bemidji, Cloquet, or Two Harbors is where a strategic defense truly shines. Every case is unique, and a personalized approach is vital.

  • Scenario in Bemidji:Imagine an individual in Bemidji with a geographic restriction preventing them from entering a specific downtown block due to a prior incident. They are driving home, and a sudden, unexpected detour due to road construction forces them to briefly enter one corner of the restricted block. They are then pulled over and charged.A strong defense would focus on lack of intentional entry and potentially the lack of knowledge of the specific violation. The detour was involuntary and unavoidable, negating the “intentional” element. The defense attorney would present evidence of the road construction, argue that the individual had no malicious intent to violate the order, and that their brief presence was a result of circumstances beyond their control, not defiance.
  • Scenario in Cloquet:Consider a situation in Cloquet where a geographic restriction order prohibits an individual from entering a specific retail store due to a past shoplifting offense. The individual’s elderly parent, who relies on them for transportation, unexpectedly needs a specific medication only available at that store. The individual drives their parent to the store, waits in the car in the parking lot, and is spotted by security.Here, the defense would pursue an authorized exception to the restriction, arguing for a “significant hardship” exception. While the individual was in the parking lot, their intent was not to trespass or re-offend, but to assist a vulnerable family member in a medical necessity. An attorney would argue that this situation warrants an exception, even if not formally granted beforehand, and that imposing a penalty for such an act would create undue hardship, weighing the factors considered by the court for exceptions.
  • Scenario in Proctor:In Proctor, an individual has a geographic restriction order stating they cannot be within 500 feet of a specific residential address. They are charged after a ping from their cell phone places them 450 feet from the address. The individual claims they were on a public walking trail they use regularly, unaware of its precise distance from the restricted address.This scenario calls for a challenge to the precision of the designated area and lack of knowledge of the boundary violation. The defense would scrutinize the accuracy of the cell phone ping, potentially present independent GPS data, and argue that the 500-foot boundary, particularly near public access points like a trail, was not clear or easily discernible by a person without precise measuring tools. The individual had no intent to violate a specific distance, but simply used a public amenity they believed they were allowed to use.
  • Scenario in Two Harbors:A person receives a geographic restriction order in Two Harbors as part of their probation, prohibiting them from entering a certain recreational area. The order is given to them verbally in court, but the written order provided later has a map that is difficult to read and doesn’t clearly delineate the boundaries, especially at night. They are charged after being found in the area after dark.The defense would heavily rely on lack of knowledge of the order’s boundaries and the existence of a valid order. If the initial verbal notification was insufficient, and the subsequent written map was illegible or confusing, the prosecution would struggle to prove the defendant truly “knew” the exact restricted area. The fact that it was dark could further support the argument that boundaries were unclear, even if the individual was physically present in the area, undermining the element of intentional entry into a known restricted zone.

The Advocate: Why a Dedicated Duluth Defense Attorney is Essential

When your world is upended by a charge of violating a geographic restriction, simply reacting to the state’s aggressive prosecution is not enough. You need more than just a lawyer; you need a dedicated, relentless fighter who understands the specific terrain of Northern Minnesota’s legal landscape. This is where a committed Duluth defense attorney becomes not just an asset, but an absolute necessity.

Countering the Resources of the State

The state, whether in St. Louis County or throughout Minnesota, commands significant resources in its pursuit of a conviction, viewing violations of court orders with seriousness. They have law enforcement officers who monitor compliance, prosecutors who will aggressively pursue new charges, and the full weight of the court system. They have the power to gather evidence like GPS data, surveillance footage, and witness statements. Facing this overwhelming force alone, particularly when trying to explain nuances of intent or boundary ambiguities, can be daunting. A dedicated Duluth defense attorney provides the critical counterweight, bringing specialized legal knowledge, investigative resources, and a strategic mind to level the playing field. This attorney will scrutinize every document, challenge every piece of evidence, and ensure that the full weight of the state’s power is met with an equally powerful defense.

Strategic Command of the St. Louis County Courts

Navigating the complexities of the St. Louis County court system, with its specific rules, procedures, and local nuances, requires more than just legal knowledge; it demands strategic command. Each courthouse, from Duluth to Two Harbors, has its own rhythm, its own presiding judges, and its own local customs. An attorney intimately familiar with these local courts understands the unspoken rules, the tendencies of particular prosecutors, and the most effective ways to present a defense within that specific environment. This strategic command means knowing when to negotiate, when to push for an exception, and when to pivot to trial. It means understanding how to present arguments about hardship or lack of clarity in a way that resonates with local judges and prosecutors, leveraging local insights to fight for your best outcome. It is this local insight, combined with unwavering legal skill, that can make the difference between a devastating conviction and a victorious outcome.

Fighting for Your Story, Not Just the Court Order

When a court issues a geographic restriction, the focus is on the order itself and your alleged violation. Your personal story, the reasons for your presence, the practical challenges of compliance, and any misunderstandings often get overlooked in the legal paperwork. A dedicated Duluth defense attorney understands that the court order is merely one piece of a much larger, more complex puzzle. This attorney will relentlessly investigate every angle, gather evidence to explain your actions, uncover ambiguities in the order, and challenge the prosecution’s interpretation of your intent. Your attorney will fight to ensure that your story—your genuine confusion, the compelling reason for your presence, the difficulty of avoiding the area, or the failure of proper notification—is heard, understood, and championed in court. It is about humanizing you, exposing the flaws in the state’s narrative, and making sure that the court sees you as more than just a violation statistic.

An Unwavering Commitment to a Winning Result

For an individual accused of violating a geographic restriction, the stakes might seem manageable to some, but to you, your freedom, your reputation, and your ongoing legal standing are on the line. Any violation of a court order can trigger significant consequences, including potential incarceration for underlying offenses. A dedicated Duluth defense attorney approaches every case with an unwavering commitment to achieving the best possible outcome—a winning result, whatever that may look like for your specific circumstances. This commitment means relentless preparation, aggressive negotiation, and a willingness to take your case to trial if that is what it takes to protect your rights. It means working tirelessly to expose every weakness in the prosecution’s case, to present every available defense, and to fight for every advantage. This isn’t just a job; it’s a personal commitment to stand with you against the power of the state, ensuring that you have a powerful advocate fighting for your freedom at every turn.

Your Questions Answered

What exactly is a “geographic restriction” in Minnesota?

A “geographic restriction” is a court order prohibiting a defendant in a criminal case or a juvenile offender from entering a specific property or defined geographic area. These are issued to protect public safety or property and can be part of pretrial release or post-conviction probation.

How do I know if I have a geographic restriction order against me?

The court that issues the order is required to notify you of the area subject to the restriction and that violating it is a crime. This notification should be explicit and clear, often in writing. If you’re unsure, you should immediately contact your attorney or the court.

What if I accidentally entered a restricted area?

The law requires that you “intentionally” enter or remain in the restricted area. If your entry was genuinely accidental (e.g., due to a navigational error, road closure, or lack of clear signage), your attorney can argue that you lacked the necessary intent for a conviction.

Can I get an exception to a geographic restriction?

Yes, a court may grant exceptions to a geographic restriction if it deems them “necessary in order to avoid the imposition of a significant hardship” upon you, while still considering public safety. Common reasons for exceptions include work, medical appointments, or family obligations.

What are the penalties for violating a geographic restriction?

Violating a geographic restriction is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in county jail and/or a $1,000 fine. More significantly, it can lead to the revocation of your pretrial release or probation, potentially resulting in jail or prison time for the underlying offense.

How does a geographic restriction differ from a restraining order?

While both restrict movement, a geographic restriction is typically tied to a criminal or delinquency proceeding and prohibits entry into a specific location. A restraining order (e.g., Order for Protection) is usually sought by an individual to prevent abuse or harassment and is specifically aimed at protecting a person.

Will a violation impact my underlying criminal case?

Yes, absolutely. If the geographic restriction was a pretrial order, violating it signals to the court that you are not complying with conditions, which can harm your chances of remaining free on bail. If it’s a probationary order, it’s a direct probation violation that can lead to revocation and incarceration.

How are the boundaries of a restricted area defined?

The court order itself should clearly define the boundaries of the restricted area. This could be a specific address, a block, a neighborhood, or even a larger area. Ambiguity in the definition can be a basis for defense.

Can a geographic restriction be challenged or appealed?

Yes, the issuance of a geographic restriction can be challenged, particularly if you can demonstrate that it was not issued based on the factors outlined in the statute (public safety/property risk, criminal history, likelihood of future activity) or if it imposes undue hardship without sufficient justification. Your attorney can advise on appeal options.

What if the restriction prevents me from going to work or school?

This is a prime example of “significant hardship.” Your attorney can petition the court for an exception to the geographic restriction to allow you to attend work, school, or other essential activities, arguing that the hardship outweighs the public safety concerns, or that conditions can be put in place to mitigate risk.

Can a geographic restriction be canceled?

Yes. A pretrial geographic restriction is automatically canceled at the final disposition of the underlying criminal case. A post-conviction restriction is canceled when probation is completed or you’re committed to corrections. A court can also cancel a post-conviction order at any time during probation.

Is violating a geographic restriction always a new criminal charge?

Yes, the statute explicitly states that a person who knows of the order and intentionally enters the restricted area “is guilty of a misdemeanor.” So, it is a new criminal offense, distinct from any probation violation proceedings.

What kind of evidence does the prosecution use to prove a violation?

Prosecutors may use a variety of evidence, including witness testimony, police reports, surveillance video, GPS data from ankle monitors or cell phones, and admission of presence. Your attorney will critically examine all this evidence.

What if I was forced to enter the area by someone else?

If you were coerced or physically forced into the restricted area, or if you entered due to a threat to your safety, your attorney can argue that your entry was not “intentional” as required by the statute, providing a defense against the charge.

How does a geographic restriction affect my daily life in Northern Minnesota?

Depending on the scope of the restriction, it can severely impact your daily routine. If it’s a specific block in Duluth, it might be manageable. If it’s a broader area that includes your work, school, or family, it can make daily life incredibly difficult, underscoring the need for an attorney to seek exceptions.