St. Paul Violent Crime Lawyer
Aggressive Defense for Assault, Robbery, and Homicide Charges in Minnesota
Being charged with a violent crime in Minnesota is one of the most serious legal challenges a person can face. At DeVore Law Office, we understand what’s at stake—your freedom, your future, and your reputation. As an experienced St. Paul violent crime lawyer, I provide strategic, aggressive defense for individuals facing serious charges throughout Ramsey County and the Twin Cities metro.
Violent Crime Charges We Defend
Our firm handles a wide range of violent felony and misdemeanor charges, including:
Assault (1st–5th Degree)
Assault involves intentionally causing or attempting to cause bodily harm, or placing someone in fear of immediate harm. Degrees vary based on severity and circumstances (e.g., use of a weapon or level of injury).
Possible penalties:
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1st Degree: Felony; up to 20 years in prison and $30,000 in fines.
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5th Degree: Misdemeanor; up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 in fines.
Aggravating factors can elevate the degree and penalties.
Domestic Assault
Harm or threat of harm against a family or household member.
Possible penalties:
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Misdemeanor or gross misdemeanor for first offenses
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Felony if there are prior convictions
Penalties can include jail, probation, restraining orders, and loss of gun rights.
Aggravated Assault
Assault involving a deadly weapon or causing substantial bodily harm. Often charged as 2nd or 3rd degree assault in Minnesota.
Possible penalties:
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Up to 10 years in prison and $20,000 in fines for 2nd degree
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Up to 5 years for 3rd degree, depending on injury
Robbery
Taking property directly from another person using force or threats.
Possible penalties:
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Simple Robbery: Felony; up to 10 years in prison
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Aggravated Robbery (1st or 2nd degree): Up to 20 years if a weapon is used or injury is caused
Armed Robbery
Robbery involving a firearm or other deadly weapon. Often charged as Aggravated Robbery 1st Degree.
Possible penalties:
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Felony; up to 20 years in prison and $35,000 in fines
Manslaughter (1st & 2nd Degree)
Causing the death of another without premeditation. First degree may involve heat of passion; second degree involves negligence or recklessness.
Possible penalties:
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1st Degree: Up to 15 years in prison
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2nd Degree: Up to 10 years in prison
Homicide / Murder
The unlawful killing of another person. Degrees vary based on intent, premeditation, and other factors.
Possible penalties:
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1st Degree Murder: Life imprisonment
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2nd Degree: Up to 40 years
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3rd Degree: Up to 25 years
Attempted Murder
Intentional attempt to kill another person, regardless of whether the act is completed.
Possible penalties:
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Charges mirror the degree of intended murder; 1st degree attempted murder can carry up to life in prison
Kidnapping
Confining or removing a person without consent, often to facilitate another crime or extract ransom.
Possible penalties:
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Felony; up to 40 years in prison and $50,000 in fines
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Enhanced penalties if the victim is a child or harmed
Strangulation (Domestic Context)
Intentional impeding of normal breathing or circulation by applying pressure to the throat or neck.
Possible penalties:
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Felony; up to 3 years in prison and $5,000 in fines
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Often charged in conjunction with domestic assault
Terroristic Threats
Threatening violence with intent to cause extreme fear or disrupt public operations.
Possible penalties:
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Felony; up to 5 years in prison and $10,000 in fines
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Includes verbal threats, social media posts, and written communication
Every case is different, and we tailor your defense strategy to the unique circumstances of your arrest, the evidence, and your personal background.
Your Rights Deserve Protection
Violent crime convictions in Minnesota can lead to mandatory prison time, long-term probation, steep fines, and a lifelong criminal record. But remember: you are presumed innocent until proven guilty. I work to challenge weak evidence, uncover police misconduct, and negotiate reduced charges or dismissals whenever possible.
Why Choose DeVore Law?
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Over 20 years of criminal defense experience in Minnesota courts
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Personalized attention from a St. Paul criminal defense attorney—not passed off to associates
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Free consultations to review your charges and legal options
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Proven success in defending serious felony cases
Whether you’re under investigation or already charged, the earlier you call, the more I can do to help.
Talk to a St. Paul Violent Crime Defense Lawyer Today
If you’ve been accused of a violent crime in St. Paul or anywhere in the Twin Cities, don’t face the criminal justice system alone. Contact DeVore Law Office today to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Call now or use the contact form below to take the first step toward protecting your future.
Learn more about how I can help you address charges related to violent crimes. Call me to schedule your free initial consultation today: 651-435-6500. Kevin DeVore has an office in Woodbury, Minnesota and helps clients throughout the metro including surrounding St. Paul, Lake Elmo, and Oakdale.