Domestic Assault Lawyer in Minneapolis

Protecting Your Rights and Your Future in Serious Cases

Domestic assault charges in Minnesota are aggressively prosecuted and carry life-changing consequences. In addition to potential jail time and fines, you may face an Order for Protection (OFP), loss of firearm rights, and long-term damage to your reputation, career, and family relationships.

False accusations are not uncommon — especially in heated situations such as divorces, custody disputes, or breakups. Unfortunately, Minnesota law enforcement officers responding to domestic incidents often make an arrest to “protect” the alleged victim, even without physical evidence. This means you could be charged with a crime you didn’t commit.

Barry Hogen has over 34 years of criminal defense experience in Minneapolis and across Minnesota. He understands the sensitive nature of domestic assault cases and works tirelessly to uncover the truth, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome.

Understanding Domestic Assault in Minnesota

Under Minnesota law, domestic assault involves causing harm, attempting to cause harm, or creating fear of harm to a family or household member, which can include:

• Spouses or former spouses

• Parents and children

• Blood relatives

• People who live or have lived together

• A pregnant woman and the alleged father

• Individuals in a romantic or sexual relationship

Levels of Domestic Assault Charges:

• Misdemeanor – First-time offense, punishable by up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 in fines.

• Gross Misdemeanor – Second offense within 10 years, punishable by up to 1 year in jail and $3,000 in fines.

• Felony – Third offense within 10 years or involving certain aggravating factors; punishable by up to 5 years in prison and $10,000 in fines.

• Domestic Assault by Strangulation – A separate felony punishable by up to 3 years in prison and $5,000 in fines.

Convictions may also result in firearm forfeiture and bans on future ownership.

Defending Against Domestic Assault Charges

Barry develops a tailored defense strategy for each client. Common defense approaches include:

• Self-Defense – Showing that any force used was reasonable and necessary to protect yourself or others.

• False Allegations – Demonstrating that accusations were fabricated or exaggerated, often for personal advantage in custody or divorce disputes.

• Lack of Evidence – Holding the prosecution to its burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

• Constitutional Violations – Suppressing evidence obtained unlawfully.

Because domestic assault is an enhanceable offense, a conviction can increase penalties for future charges — making it even more critical to fight the case now.

Orders for Protection (OFPs)

OFPs, also known as restraining orders, can:

• Prohibit contact with the alleged victim

• Limit or remove visitation with children

• Restrict where you can live or travel

• Last up to 2 years, with possible extensions

Barry represents clients in OFP hearings, fighting to protect their parental rights, reputations, and freedoms.

Long-Term Consequences

A domestic assault conviction can impact far more than your immediate freedom. It may limit job opportunities, housing options, professional licenses, and Second Amendment rights. That’s why securing experienced legal representation early in the process is vital.

Take the First Step in Your Defense

You don’t have to face domestic assault charges alone. Barry Hogen will listen to your side of the story, challenge the prosecution’s case, and work toward the best possible resolution.

📞 Call (612) 338-5545 or contact us for a free, confidential consultation.