Mike Brandt’s client was charged with Domestic Assault out of East Bethel, Anoka County, Minnesota from an incident stemming from a struggle for his cell phone with his wife. Notwithstanding the facts, the alleged victim was very vocal in claiming that Mike’s client had engaged in abusive behavior in the past, had significantly assaulted her on this particular day, and wanted the worst punishment for him. In preparing the case, Mike provided the prosecutor with a great deal of information about inconsistencies in the alleged victim’s version of what happened, information about Mike’s client’s good character, and information about the proactive steps that Mike’s client had taken since the incident to address any issues. Based upon all this information, the prosecutor agreed to reduce the charge to Disorderly Conduct. Mike’s client received what is called a Stay of Adjudication—meaning that a conviction was not entered and the matter will be dismissed in one year as long at the client successfully completes his terms of probation. Assuming the charges are dismissed, Mike’s client will also be eligible to have the record expunged (sealed) in the future.
This type of result prevented Mike’s client from having any assault conviction on his record which could cause a lot of issues for him on background studies, child custody, or potential future employment.