Unlawful Assembly Attorney | Duluth, MN

Fighting an Unlawful Assembly Accusation in Duluth with a Dedicated Defense Attorney

The moment you are accused of Unlawful Assembly in Duluth or any of the quiet communities across Northern Minnesota, your world can feel like it’s crashing down. That sudden, jarring accusation, often amidst confusion and chaos, isn’t just about a potential legal penalty; it’s a direct assault on your life, your standing in a community that thrives on trust, and your very future. Whether you were simply in the wrong place at the wrong time in Proctor, found yourself caught up in a larger crowd in St. Louis County, or were genuinely trying to express a point of view in Two Harbors, the label of “criminal” can feel like a brand. You start to question everything: your job, your reputation in your neighborhood, and how your family in Cloquet or Bemidji will look at you. The state, with all its power and resources, is now pointing a finger, and the sheer weight of that accusation can be paralyzing.

This isn’t just a legal hiccup; it’s a full-blown crisis. The whispers can start, the judgments can form, and the fear of a permanent mark on your record can be overwhelming. In a close-knit region like Northern Minnesota, where reputations are built over a lifetime and community ties run deep, an Unlawful Assembly charge can feel like an immediate sentence of isolation. But it’s crucial to understand this: an accusation is not a conviction. It is the beginning of a fight, not the end of your life. This is precisely when you need an advocate who understands the stakes, who will stand unflinchingly between you and the power of the state, and who will forge a clear path forward through strength, strategy, and an unwavering commitment to your defense.

The Stakes: What a Conviction Truly Costs

A conviction for Unlawful Assembly, even a misdemeanor, can carry far more severe consequences than just fines or a brief jail stay. It can cast a long shadow over every aspect of your life, impacting your future long after the courtroom doors close.

Your Permanent Criminal Record

A conviction for Unlawful Assembly in Minnesota will result in a permanent criminal record. This isn’t something that simply fades away. Every background check for a new job, every application for a loan, and even volunteer opportunities can reveal this mark. In a place like Duluth, where community ties are strong, a criminal record can lead to questions and assumptions that undermine your standing. It can limit your opportunities and force you to perpetually explain a past mistake or a moment of misunderstanding, no matter how minor it seemed at the time. This record becomes a weight, constantly impacting how you are perceived and what doors remain open to you.

Loss of Second Amendment Rights

Even a misdemeanor conviction for Unlawful Assembly, depending on the specific circumstances and any underlying intent proven by the prosecution, could potentially impact your Second Amendment rights. While not all misdemeanor convictions automatically revoke gun ownership, certain types of offenses, particularly those involving any hint of violence or intent to commit unlawful acts by force, can trigger federal prohibitions. For many in Northern Minnesota, where hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense are integral parts of life and culture, the loss of these rights is a deeply personal and significant consequence. An attorney understands the nuances of how a state conviction can intersect with federal law and will fight to protect every right you possess.

Barriers to Employment and Housing

In today’s competitive job market, employers often conduct comprehensive background checks. A conviction for Unlawful Assembly, even a misdemeanor, can be a red flag, leading potential employers to choose another candidate. This is especially true for positions of trust or those involving public interaction. Similarly, landlords frequently run background checks, and a criminal record can make securing housing in Duluth, Cloquet, or Bemidji significantly more challenging. Even in small communities like Two Harbors or Proctor, where word travels fast, a criminal record can create an invisible barrier, making it harder to secure the necessities of life and rebuild your reputation.

Impact on Professional Licenses and Reputation

For individuals holding professional licenses—whether as a teacher, nurse, or tradesperson—an Unlawful Assembly conviction can jeopardize your ability to practice. Many licensing boards view criminal convictions, even misdemeanors, as indicative of a lack of judgment or character, potentially leading to disciplinary action, suspension, or even revocation of your license. Beyond formal sanctions, the reputational damage can be immense. In close-knit communities across St. Louis County, your reputation is your currency. An accusation of Unlawful Assembly can erode trust among colleagues, clients, and the community at large, making it incredibly difficult to maintain professional standing and personal dignity.

The Accusation: Understanding the State’s Case

Facing an Unlawful Assembly charge means understanding exactly what the state alleges. This isn’t about vague accusations; it’s about the specific legal definitions and the burden the prosecution carries to prove every single element of the crime.

What Does the State Allege? Unlawful Assembly Explained in Plain English

When the state charges you with Unlawful Assembly, they are essentially alleging that you were part of a group of three or more people whose collective actions or intentions crossed a line from lawful gathering to something that disturbed or threatened the public peace. This isn’t about simply being at a protest or gathering with friends; it’s about the purpose of the assembly or the conduct of those involved. The key distinction lies in whether the group intended to commit an unlawful act by force, or if their actions, even without specific unlawful intent, created a significant disturbance or threat to peace.

This charge often arises in situations where public order is perceived to be breaking down, or where authorities believe a group’s actions could escalate into something more serious. It’s crucial to remember that the prosecution doesn’t necessarily need to prove you personally committed violence or property damage, but rather that you participated in an assembly that met the specific criteria outlined in the law. This is where the details of your presence, your actions, and the context of the situation become absolutely vital to your defense.

The Law on the Books: Minnesota Statute 609.705

Minnesota Statute 609.705 outlines the specifics of Unlawful Assembly. Its purpose is to deter gatherings that pose a threat to public order and safety. The law defines distinct scenarios under which an assembly of three or more persons becomes unlawful, emphasizing either malicious intent or disorderly conduct that threatens peace.

When three or more persons assemble, each participant is guilty of unlawful assembly, which is a misdemeanor, if the assembly is:

(1) with intent to commit any unlawful act by force; or

(2) with intent to carry out any purpose in such manner as will disturb or threaten the public peace; or

(3) without unlawful purpose, but the participants so conduct themselves in a disorderly manner as to disturb or threaten the public peace.

History: 1963 c 753 art 1 s 609.705; 1971 c 23 s 69

The Prosecution’s Burden: Elements of Unlawful Assembly

The state carries the entire burden of proof in an Unlawful Assembly case. This means the prosecution must demonstrate, beyond a reasonable doubt, that every single element of the crime, as defined by Minnesota law, was present. If the prosecutor fails to prove even one of these elements, their case against you collapses, and you cannot be convicted. This is the fundamental principle of criminal justice, and it is the ground on which a dedicated defense attorney fights. Your defense will focus on undermining the state’s ability to prove these elements, one by one.

Three or More Persons Assembled: The prosecution must first prove that there were at least three individuals gathered together. This seems straightforward, but sometimes the police may miscount or incorrectly identify individuals as part of a single assembly when they were merely in proximity. An attorney will scrutinize the police reports and any available evidence, like video footage, to verify the actual number of individuals demonstrably participating in the alleged assembly.
Intent to Commit Any Unlawful Act by Force (if applicable): If the state is pursuing a charge under subdivision (1) of the statute, they must prove that the assembly had a shared intent to commit an illegal act through force. This isn’t about what one person might have been thinking, but a collective intent of the group. This element requires a deep dive into the actions and communications of the assembled individuals to determine if there was a demonstrable, shared purpose to engage in violent or unlawful behavior. Without clear evidence of this collective intent, the state’s case under this section fails.
Intent to Disturb or Threaten the Public Peace (if applicable): Under subdivision (2), the prosecution must prove that the assembly had the shared intent to carry out their purpose in a way that would disturb or threaten the public peace. This is often subjective and can be challenged. What constitutes “disturbing” or “threatening” the public peace? An attorney will challenge the state’s interpretation, arguing that the assembly’s intent was not inherently disruptive or threatening, even if an individual officer perceived it that way. The focus here is on the intent of the assembly, not just the outcome.
Disorderly Conduct Disturbing or Threatening Public Peace (without unlawful purpose, if applicable): For charges under subdivision (3), the state does not need to prove an initial unlawful purpose. Instead, they must prove that the participants, despite potentially having no initial unlawful purpose, conducted themselves in such a disorderly manner that they disturbed or threatened the public peace. This element hinges on the definition of “disorderly conduct” in the context of disturbing the peace. An attorney will meticulously examine the specific actions of individuals and the group, arguing that the conduct did not meet the legal threshold for disturbing or threatening public peace, or that individual actions should not be attributed to the entire assembly.

The Potential Outcome: Penalties for an Unlawful Assembly Conviction

Being convicted of Unlawful Assembly, while categorized as a misdemeanor, is not a minor event. It carries serious statutory penalties that can significantly impact your life, underscoring the critical need for a strong defense. The law aims to punish those who disrupt public order, and the penalties reflect the state’s intent to deter such actions.

Unlawful Assembly in Minnesota is classified as a misdemeanor. This means that a conviction can lead to a maximum sentence of 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. While these maximums might not seem as daunting as felony penalties, even a short jail sentence can lead to job loss, significant disruption to your family life, and an indelible mark on your criminal record. The fine, while seemingly manageable, can accumulate with court costs and other fees, creating a substantial financial burden.

The Battle Plan: Building Your Strategic Defense

An accusation of Unlawful Assembly is not a conviction. It is a critical juncture where your future hangs in the balance, and it demands an aggressive, strategic counter-offensive. The state may have brought charges, but their case is merely a collection of allegations and evidence they believe supports their narrative. That narrative must be rigorously tested, challenged, and, if necessary, dismantled. You are not simply a passive subject of the legal process; you are a client for whom a dedicated defense attorney will fight tooth and nail. The fight starts now, and it begins with a clear, assertive plan.

This isn’t a moment for hesitation or hoping the charges will simply disappear. The state, through its police and prosecutors, is working actively to build a case against you. To stand a chance, you need an advocate who is equally proactive, examining every piece of evidence, scrutinizing every police procedure, and identifying every weakness in the prosecution’s argument. This means challenging witness statements, dissecting forensic evidence, and asserting your constitutional rights at every turn. Your defense is not about waiting to see what the state does; it is about anticipating their moves and strategically positioning yourself to defend your freedom and your future.

How an Unlawful Assembly Charge Can Be Challenged in Court

An Unlawful Assembly charge can be challenged in numerous ways, and a comprehensive defense strategy will explore every avenue. My approach is to aggressively question the state’s narrative and present a compelling alternative based on the facts and the law.

Lack of Intent

One of the most critical elements for the prosecution to prove in many Unlawful Assembly cases is intent. The statute often requires a specific intent to commit an unlawful act by force or to disturb/threaten the public peace.

No Shared Purpose: For a conviction under the first two prongs of MN Statute 609.705, the prosecution must prove that the three or more individuals assembled with a shared, collective intent to either commit an unlawful act by force or to disturb/threaten the public peace. It’s not enough for one or two individuals to have such intent if the group as a whole did not. An attorney will investigate whether there was true unanimity of purpose, or if individuals present merely happened to be in the same vicinity without shared malicious intent.
Misinterpretation of Actions: What an officer perceives as “disorderly” or “threatening” might simply be a passionate, but lawful, expression of dissent or even general confusion. An attorney will argue that the defendant’s actions, and the actions of the group, were misinterpreted by law enforcement and did not rise to the level of intent to disturb or threaten public peace. This defense focuses on the subjective nature of the officer’s interpretation versus the objective reality of the situation.
Spontaneous Gathering: Many gatherings are spontaneous, not pre-planned with a specific unlawful purpose. If an assembly formed without prior intent to commit force or disturb the peace, and subsequent actions were more a result of escalating circumstances than a pre-existing plan, this can be a strong defense. An attorney will work to establish the spontaneous nature of the gathering, undermining the state’s claim of criminal intent from the outset.

Freedom of Assembly and Speech

The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects the right to peaceably assemble and to freedom of speech. An Unlawful Assembly charge can sometimes infringe upon these fundamental rights.

Lawful Protest: Citizens have a constitutional right to protest and express their views, even if those views are unpopular or challenging to authority. If the assembly was a lawful protest, an attorney will argue that the charge of Unlawful Assembly infringes upon constitutionally protected speech and assembly rights, demonstrating that the gathering’s primary purpose was expression, not disruption.
Lack of Dispersal Order: In many situations where public gatherings become disorderly, police are required to issue a clear dispersal order before making arrests. If no such order was given, or if it was unclear or not adequately communicated, it can be argued that participants were not given a reasonable opportunity to disperse, thus making arrests for Unlawful Assembly improper. This challenges the procedural correctness of the arrest.
Overbroad Application: Sometimes, the Unlawful Assembly statute is applied too broadly, sweeping up individuals who were merely present at a larger gathering but not actively engaged in any unlawful or disorderly conduct. An attorney will argue that the state is attempting to criminalize mere presence or association, rather than proving active participation in an unlawful assembly as defined by law. This defense emphasizes that individual culpability must be proven, not assumed.

Mistaken Identity or Presence

In the chaos of a large gathering, law enforcement can often make mistakes in identifying individuals or assessing their level of involvement.

Not a Participant: You might have been in the vicinity of an alleged unlawful assembly without actually being a participant in the sense of contributing to its alleged unlawful purpose or disorderly conduct. An attorney will argue that you were simply an observer, bystander, or someone passing through, and not an active member of the assembly.
Innocent Presence: Perhaps you arrived late, were leaving, or were there for a purpose entirely unrelated to the alleged unlawful assembly. An attorney can present evidence to demonstrate your innocent presence, showing that you had no knowledge of or involvement in any unlawful activities or intentions of the group. This might involve alibis, witness statements, or surveillance footage.
Confused with Others: In a crowded situation, police officers might mistakenly identify you as someone else who was involved in disorderly conduct. An attorney will challenge the reliability of eyewitness identification and cross-reference descriptions to demonstrate that you were mistakenly identified, or that the evidence against you actually pertains to a different individual.

Lack of Disturbance

The statute often requires that the assembly “disturb or threaten the public peace.” What constitutes such a disturbance is open to interpretation.

No Actual Disturbance: Despite police claims, the assembly may not have actually caused a significant disturbance or threat to public peace. An attorney can present evidence, such as video recordings, witness testimonies, or noise complaints (or lack thereof), to demonstrate that the gathering, while perhaps lively, did not genuinely disrupt the community or pose a credible threat.
Minimal or Isolated Incident: Even if there was a brief moment of disorder, it might have been an isolated incident caused by a few individuals, not representative of the entire assembly’s conduct. An attorney will argue that the incident was too minor or too isolated to constitute an “unlawful assembly” under the statute, and that the actions of a few should not be attributed to the entire group.

Defense in Action: Scenarios in Northern Minnesota

Navigating an Unlawful Assembly charge requires understanding how these legal defenses play out in the real world, especially within the unique context of Northern Minnesota.

Bemidji: The Protest That Escalated

Imagine a scenario in Bemidji where a group of concerned citizens gathers peacefully outside the local city hall to protest a proposed development project. As the afternoon progresses, a few individuals from outside the core group, perhaps fueled by alcohol or a different agenda, begin to argue loudly with passersby, block pedestrian traffic, and refuse to disperse when asked by law enforcement. Police then declare the entire assembly unlawful, and you, a lifelong Bemidji resident who was merely holding a sign and speaking calmly, are swept up in the arrests.

In this situation, the defense of Lack of Intent and Freedom of Assembly and Speech would be paramount. An attorney would argue that your individual intent was to lawfully protest, not to disturb the peace or commit unlawful acts. Evidence would be gathered to show your specific actions and demeanor, distinguishing them from the few individuals who caused the escalation. Furthermore, the defense would assert that your constitutional right to peaceful assembly was violated, as the entire gathering was deemed unlawful due to the actions of a few, without a clear, individualized warning or a specific dispersal order aimed at the disruptive elements.

Cloquet: The Misunderstood Gathering

Consider a scenario in Cloquet where you and several friends are gathered late at night in a public park, sharing stories and listening to music. While the music isn’t excessively loud, a neighbor, annoyed by the presence of a group, calls the police, exaggerating the noise and claiming disruptive behavior. When officers arrive, they observe three or more people and, without extensive investigation into the actual level of disturbance, charge everyone present with Unlawful Assembly under the “disorderly manner” clause.

Here, the defense of Lack of Disturbance and Mistaken Identity or Presence would be crucial. An attorney would challenge the prosecution’s claim that the gathering actually disturbed or threatened the public peace. This might involve obtaining testimony from other nearby residents who were not disturbed, or evidence that the music volume was reasonable. It would also be argued that your presence was entirely innocent and social, and that you were not conducting yourself in a “disorderly manner” as required by the statute, but simply enjoying a private gathering in a public space, distinct from any perceived general “disorder” that the police might have attributed to the group.

Two Harbors: The Fishing Tournament Debacle

Picture a large annual fishing tournament in Two Harbors, drawing hundreds of participants and spectators. Due to a scoring dispute, a heated argument erupts among a small cluster of competitors near the docks. Voices are raised, a minor scuffle breaks out, and some onlookers, including you, gather to see what’s happening. Police arrive, see a crowd and a commotion, and believing the entire assembly to be contributing to a breach of the peace, issue Unlawful Assembly charges to several individuals, including you, who were merely curious bystanders.

This scenario is a prime example for the defense of Mistaken Identity or Presence and No Shared Purpose (Lack of Intent). An attorney would assert that you were not a participant in the dispute or the scuffle, but merely an observer drawn to the scene. Evidence, such as witness statements from other tournament-goers or even camera footage, could demonstrate that your intent was curiosity, not participation in any unlawful act or disturbance. The argument would be made that you lacked any shared purpose with those actually causing the disturbance, and therefore, should not be held liable for an “unlawful assembly” simply by virtue of being in the vicinity of a brief, isolated conflict.

Proctor: The Block Party Gone Awry

Imagine a community block party in Proctor, organized by residents and permitted by the city. Midway through the evening, a few uninvited individuals arrive, start playing their own loud music from a car, and refuse to turn it down, creating a nuisance that detracts from the family-friendly atmosphere. When police are called, they attempt to disperse the entire street, and when some confusion leads to a slow dispersal, they begin charging individuals, including you, an organizer who was simply trying to de-escalate the situation, with Unlawful Assembly.

In this instance, the defenses of Freedom of Assembly and Speech (specifically, the right to a lawful gathering) and Lack of Intent are paramount. An attorney would argue that the initial assembly was entirely lawful and permitted. Your actions, as an organizer, were aimed at preserving the peace, not disturbing it. It would be emphasized that the “disorderly conduct” originated from a few distinct, uninvited individuals, and that the overall assembly, and your participation in it, did not constitute a threat to public peace. The defense would highlight that you were actively trying to resolve the disturbance, not contribute to it, undermining any claim of unlawful intent or disorderly conduct on your part.

The Advocate: Why a Dedicated Duluth Defense Attorney is Essential

When you are accused of Unlawful Assembly, you are facing the full weight of the state. This is not a battle to fight alone. You need a dedicated, relentless advocate in your corner, someone who understands the nuances of Minnesota law and the specifics of the local judicial system. A defense attorney is not just a lawyer; they are your shield, your strategist, and your voice when yours is being drowned out.

Countering the Resources of the State

The state of Minnesota, through its various agencies, has virtually limitless resources to prosecute you. They have investigators, forensic teams, police officers, and a team of prosecuting attorneys, all working to build a case against you. They have the power to compel testimony, gather evidence, and dedicate significant time and money to secure a conviction. Trying to go up against this formidable force on your own is like bringing a knife to a gunfight. A dedicated defense attorney levels the playing field. They have their own network of investigators, their own knowledge of legal precedents, and their own strategies for dissecting the prosecution’s case. They understand how to challenge evidence, identify procedural errors, and exploit weaknesses in the state’s narrative, ensuring that you are not overwhelmed by the sheer power and resources arrayed against you.

Strategic Command of the St. Louis County Courts

Every courthouse, every prosecutor, and every judge in St. Louis County has their own way of doing things. From Duluth to Cloquet, from Two Harbors to Proctor, the local legal landscape is complex and unforgiving. Without an intimate understanding of these localized procedures, unwritten rules, and individual tendencies, you are at a significant disadvantage. A defense attorney who regularly practices in the St. Louis County courts brings invaluable strategic command to your case. They know which arguments resonate with particular judges, how certain prosecutors tend to operate, and what motions are most likely to succeed in a given courtroom. This localized knowledge is not something you can learn from a book; it comes from years of direct experience, allowing your attorney to navigate the system efficiently and strategically on your behalf.

Fighting for Your Story, Not Just the Police Report

When the police file their report, they are presenting one version of events—their version. This narrative, often based on initial observations and presumptions, can be incomplete, biased, or simply wrong. It rarely captures the full context of the situation or your true intentions. The police report becomes the foundation of the state’s case, but it is not the whole story, and it is certainly not your story. A dedicated defense attorney understands this fundamental imbalance. They will not simply accept the police report as fact. Instead, they will meticulously investigate every detail, seek out alternative explanations, interview witnesses who might provide a different perspective, and uncover evidence that supports your truth. They will fight to ensure that your side of the story—the full, nuanced account of what happened—is heard and given the weight it deserves, rather than allowing the prosecution’s narrow interpretation to define your fate.

An Unwavering Commitment to a Winning Result

Facing an Unlawful Assembly charge can feel isolating, as if no one believes you. You need more than just legal advice; you need an unwavering commitment from someone who truly believes in fighting for you. This means a defense attorney who is not afraid to stand up to the prosecution, who will challenge every piece of evidence, and who will explore every possible avenue for your defense. It means an attorney who will tirelessly negotiate for the best possible outcome, whether that’s a dismissal of charges, a reduction to a lesser offense, or a victory at trial. This commitment extends beyond the courtroom, offering guidance and support as you navigate the emotional and practical challenges of facing criminal charges. Your attorney’s dedication is your most powerful asset in the fight for your future.

Your Questions Answered

What is Unlawful Assembly in Minnesota?

Unlawful Assembly in Minnesota occurs when three or more persons gather with the intent to commit an unlawful act by force, or to carry out a purpose that disturbs or threatens public peace, or if they conduct themselves in a disorderly manner that disturbs or threatens public peace, even without an initial unlawful purpose.

Is Unlawful Assembly a felony or misdemeanor in Minnesota?

Unlawful Assembly under Minnesota Statute 609.705 is classified as a misdemeanor. This means the maximum penalty is typically 90 days in jail and/or a $1,000 fine.

What are the main differences between Unlawful Assembly and Disorderly Conduct?

While both involve public disturbance, Unlawful Assembly specifically requires “three or more persons” and focuses on the nature or intent of the assembly, while Disorderly Conduct (MN Statute 609.72) can involve a single person and focuses on individual behavior that causes alarm or resentment.

Can I be charged with Unlawful Assembly if I was just observing a protest in Duluth?

It is possible, but it is a point of defense. If you were merely an observer and not actively participating in any unlawful or disorderly conduct, a skilled attorney can argue that you were not a participant in the “unlawful assembly” as defined by the statute.

What if I was asked to disperse but didn’t hear the order?

If a clear and unambiguous dispersal order was not adequately communicated, or if you genuinely did not hear it, it can be a strong defense. An attorney will investigate the circumstances of the dispersal order to challenge its validity.

Can my Unlawful Assembly charge be expunged from my record in Minnesota?

Under certain circumstances, after a period of time and if specific conditions are met, a misdemeanor Unlawful Assembly conviction may be eligible for expungement in Minnesota. An attorney can advise you on the eligibility and process for expungement.

What kind of evidence does the prosecution use in an Unlawful Assembly case?

The prosecution often relies on police officer testimony, body camera footage, surveillance videos, witness statements, and sometimes social media posts to build their case.

How important is my intent in an Unlawful Assembly charge?

Your intent is often a critical factor. For certain prongs of the statute, the prosecution must prove that the assembly, or its participants, had a specific intent to commit unlawful acts or disturb the peace. Lack of such intent can be a powerful defense.

Will an Unlawful Assembly conviction affect my ability to get a job in St. Louis County?

Yes, even a misdemeanor conviction can appear on background checks and may create significant barriers to employment, especially in roles requiring trust or public interaction. Many employers in St. Louis County and beyond are hesitant to hire individuals with criminal records.

How long does an Unlawful Assembly case typically take to resolve?

The timeline varies greatly depending on the complexity of the case, court schedules, and whether it proceeds to trial or is resolved through negotiation. It can range from a few weeks to several months, or even longer.

What should I do immediately after being charged with Unlawful Assembly?

The most important step is to remain silent and immediately contact a criminal defense attorney. Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present, as anything you say can be used against you.

Can Unlawful Assembly charges be combined with other charges?

Yes, it is common for Unlawful Assembly charges to be brought alongside other charges, such as Disorderly Conduct, Riot, or even Assault, depending on the specific circumstances of the alleged incident.

What are common defenses against Unlawful Assembly charges?

Common defenses include challenging the element of intent, asserting First Amendment rights (freedom of assembly and speech), arguing mistaken identity, or demonstrating that no actual disturbance or threat to public peace occurred.

If I was at a protest that turned violent, am I automatically guilty of Unlawful Assembly?

No, your mere presence at a protest that turns violent does not automatically make you guilty of Unlawful Assembly. The state must prove your individual participation and intent as defined by the statute.

Can an attorney help me if I’ve already talked to the police?

Yes, absolutely. Even if you’ve already spoken to the police, an attorney can still critically review your statements, identify any potential damage, and build a strong defense strategy moving forward. It is never too late to secure legal representation.