Protecting your Freedom in Bismarck, Burleigh County, and across North Dakota.
What is Criminal Law?
The legal system of the United States operates on a principle of innocent until proven guilty. Individuals accused of committing a crime are still afforded legal protections. Criminal defense law is the process by which an attorney uses those protections in court proceedings. The prosecution opposite the defense must prove the person’s guilt of the crime beyond a reasonable doubt.
Any offense that violates public law falls under the umbrella of criminal defense. There are two different categories of criminal offenses: misdemeanors and felonies. Generally, a crime’s severity is what determines which category it falls under.
What is a Felony?
Of the two categories, felonies are the more severe. The punishment for a felony offense is usually greater than one year in prison, and a fine of $1000.00 or more. If convicted of a felony offense, there is also the chance the guilty party may lose some or all civil liberties, such as the right to own a handgun or possess a driver’s license.
Felony offenses also have various degrees. Third Degree felonies have a maximum punishment of up to five years in prison, and second degree felonies are punishable up to fifteen. First degree felonies carry prison sentences of thirty years to life.
What is a Misdemeanor?
Misdemeanors are the less severe of the two categories. Punishment for these cannot exceed one year of prison time in a county jail, or a probation of the same length, and carry a maximum fine of no more than $1000.00. Punishments for misdemeanors are less severe than felonies, though they include a variety of more physical punishments such as:
- Community service
- Mandatory alcohol or drug counseling for addicts
- Other classes related to the offense, such as anger management or impulse control courses
- Restitution
- Travel restrictions like house arrest
Second degree misdemeanors are punishable by up to sixty days in jail or six months of supervised probation. First degree misdemeanors are punishable by up to one year in jail or supervised probation.
About Sand Law’s Criminal Defense Attorneys
The Bismarck Criminal Defense Lawyers of Sand Law PLLC have decades of experience defending the rights of those charged with criminal offenses of all types, both felonies and misdemeanors. We provide Burleigh County with extensive experience trying cases in juvenile, state, and federal court.
Sand Law attorneys have handled many cases throughout North Dakota, allowing us to benefit of experience in various types of law. If you’ve been charged with a crime, you have a right to effective defense, and our experienced attorneys can provide it.
Types of Criminal Cases We Handle
We bring an experienced team that knows how the government handles criminal cases. With former prosecutors and board certified defense attorneys on our roster, we are very familiar with the criminal justice system. Our knowledge and years of experience works to our client’s advantage, and we can handle almost every type of criminal matter in any type of court. From routine misdemeanors to serious felonies, our team can help defend you in cases of:
- Appeals
- Assault
- Domestic Violence
- Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol
- Drug Offenses
- Fraud
- Internet Crimes
- Manslaughter and Vehicular Manslaughter
- Murder
- Post Conviction Relief
- RICO
- Sex Crimes
- Theft
- White Collar Crimes
Arrested in Burleigh County?
One of the most stressful events in anyone’s life is being arrested. It carries uncertainty, and can take a very high toll on a person’s life by adding financial, personal, and professional pressure. It also affects those around them, including spouses, children, relatives, friends and coworkers. Our defense team in Burleigh County understand all of the repercussions that an arrest can have on your life.
The decades of combined experience on our team allows us to know what approach to take with your defense. Our Burleigh County criminal defense lawyers will work with you to understand the circumstances of your case, and organize your defense. Legal decisions are vital to the course of your life, and it’s important to make the right ones.
Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney in Bismarck, ND
When you’re facing criminal charges in Bismarck, ND, having a criminal defense lawyer is crucial. At Sand Law, we understand how stressful this situation can be and the serious impact it can have on your life. Our experienced team works hard to protect your rights and build a strong defense. Whether you’re dealing with a misdemeanor or a felony, we’ll help you navigate the legal process, work to reduce charges, and defend your freedom. Early legal help is key, and we’re here to support you through every step of your case.
Sand Law, Helping Clients in Bismarck and North Dakota
We represent clients in Watford City, Williston, Bismarck, Minot, and anywhere in North Dakota. Our clients include people from all walks of life, from first time offenders to career criminals, from everyday working people to celebrities, judges, professional athletes, law enforcement officials, politicians, business executives and professionals.
At Sand Law PLLC we recognize that many cases require the highest level of privacy and discretion. Some cases require a high level of skill when it comes to dealing with press and media matters. Creativity and flexibility are essential when defending a client, and every member of our team has a vast arsenal of legal experience to draw from to fight for your rights.
Our team has the resources and experience to handle pre-arrest investigations, prepare cases for trial, negotiate with prosecutors, and argue before judges. We provide aggressive representation that serves the interest of our clients.
Contact the Experienced Bismarck Defense Lawyers at Sand Law PLLC
Sand Law PLLC is located in the heart of North Dakota with offices in Watford City, Williston, Bismarck, and Minot. Our early intervention is crucial when you are involved in a criminal investigation. A proactive approach can even prevent charges from being filed after an arrest. That’s why we take every possible measure to be available 7 days a week, every day of the year. So please fill out our online form or call us today at 701-609-1510 to talk to a defense attorney in Bismarck immediately. We value your privacy and will keep any information strictly confidential.