Although it is still unclear, the answer is likely no. Minnesota DWI laws say it is a crime for any person to drive, operate, or be in physical control of any “motor vehicle” while impaired. Minn. Stat. § 169A.20. The answer to this question comes down to whether a lime scooter is considered a “motor vehicle.” Minnesota law defines “motor...
No, any theft in Minnesota is at least a misdemeanor level offense. Often, people use the term “petty theft” to refer to the lowest level of theft. However, in Minnesota, theft charges are either a misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, or felony. The lowest level, theft of property or services valued at $500 or less, is considered a misdemeanor theft. The penalties...
On January 1, 2024, new “Red Flag” laws went into effect in Minnesota allowing certain people to request an order from the court to temporarily prohibit someone from purchasing or possessing a firearm. This order is known as an Extreme Risk Protection Order (ERPO) and may be issued if a court finds a person is in a period of crisis...
As Presidents’ Day approaches, it’s not only a time celebrate the leaders who have shaped our nation, but also a time to reflect on our former Presidents and the legal challenges they faced. Throughout history, presidents have navigated complex legal landscapes, often finding themselves at the center of controversies and facing scrutiny from the public, Congress, and even the courts....
The Minnesota Court of Appeals ruled on the topic of indecent exposure in deciding State of Minnesota v. Plancarte earlier this month. Describing its decision as a “close issue,” the Court determined that a woman’s breasts are in fact “lewd,” when publicly exposed-aside from breastfeeding. In the opinion, the Court acknowledges that the determination of woman’s breasts as “private parts”...
Super Bowl Sunday is a beloved American holiday, often celebrated with good food, drinks, and most importantly, football! It’s a day when football fans everywhere gather to watch the game and sometimes get a little rowdy. Statistics show that there may be an uptick in crime on Super Bowl Sunday. In preparation for hosting this year’s celebration, and the potential...
February 6, 2024, a groundbreaking verdict was reached in the case of Jennifer Crumbley, the mother of the teenager who killed four students at an Oxford, Michigan, high school in 2021. Jennifer Crumbley and her husband James Crumbley were charged with four counts of involuntary manslaughter for their role in their son’s rampage, which left four students dead and seven...
Criminal Liability Minnesota’s DWI laws make it illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. However, Minnesota’s Open Container laws can punish sober drivers and passengers for having an open alcohol container in their car. In terms of criminal liability, Minnesota’s law applies equally to drivers and passengers. This means that police officers may choose to...
Have you ever wondered about the rules for stopping when encountering a school bus? If so, you’re not alone. Familiarizing yourself with the proper protocols mandated by Minnesota law is essential to ensure the safety of children on school buses and to avoid the potential criminal consequences of failing to stop when legally required to do so. According to Minnesota...
Now that marijuana has been legalized in Minnesota, it’s important to remember the laws surrounding its possession, use, and transportation. While it is now legal to transport certain amounts of marijuana in your vehicle, the law restricts where you can store it. The Minnesota Supreme Court has ruled the odor of marijuana is not enough for an officer to search...