Legal Question in Criminal Law in Minnesota

5h degree assault

i've been charged with 5th degree assault. is it gonna effect my career and my chances of gettin jobs when i graduate after abt 4 yrs?


Asked on 7/08/08, 9:18 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Maury Beaulier612.240.8005 Minnesota Lawyers

Re: 5h degree assault

Thank you for the e-mail.

A fifth degree assault can be very serious. It requires that you acted with an intent to harm someone or that the other person was in reasonable apprehension of physical harm from an act.

A fifth degree assault is a misdemeanor, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. However, the collateral consequences of a conviction are extremely significant and, arguably, more severe than the criminal penalties themselves. As a result, it is extemely important to protect your public and criminal record.

First, if convicted of a fifth degree assault or any assaulyt offense, employers who require a background check will not hire you. That is particularly true if you work closely with customers or in some other service oriented profession.

Second, many landlords now perform background checks for applicants and, if you decide to rent, you may be denied an apartment with a crime of violence such as an assault on your record.

Third, a conviction for assault may result in licensing problems for certain occupations or interfere with acceptance into some schools of higher learning.

Finally, it is also compelling that a non-citizen may suffer deportation and, even a citizen would lose their right to possess a weapon ,even for hunting purposes, after a conviction.

Often, the best defense is a good offense. In most instances, an argument for self defense may be made and Motions should be served to acquire all statements and medical records from the prosecution. Often, with skilled legal representation jail time and convictions can be avoided.

For a FREE consultation call 612.240.8005

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Answered on 7/09/08, 12:03 pm
Thomas C. Gallagher Gallagher Criminal Defense

Re: 5h degree assault

Yes. It is even worse if it is a "domestic" type case.

A guilty plea or conviction will negatively affect potential employment, reducing future annual income, as well as result in the loss of various legal rights (guns, immigration) and increased costs (insurance), fewer housing options, professional licensing and bonding problems -- the list goes on!

Get a good lawyer (like me), fight it and don't accept a conviction, don't plead guilty.

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Answered on 7/09/08, 7:53 pm
William Bulmer II Law Offices of William K. Bulmer II

Re: 5h degree assault

Yes!! If you can fight the charged, you absolutely should. You should speak to an attorney in full detail concerning your case.

An assault charge is deemed a crime of violence which can have life long effects. Loss of job, gun rights, housing, etc. all stem from an assault conviction.

You really should speak to a lawyer.

I would be happy to speak to you. I offer free consultations.

www.bulmerlaw.com

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Answered on 7/08/08, 11:48 pm


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