Strangulation is a serious crime that often accompanies an act of assault. In many cases, strangulation is charged as a felony, and can have very strict penalties. If you are up against felony strangulation charges in Minnesota, you need a qualified defense attorney to help.

Understanding Felony Strangulation Charges

Strangulation occurs when an individual has his or her breathing impeded by an act of force. The act of strangling typically consists of one of the following:

  • Blocking the nasal passage or mouth; or
  • Applying forceful pressure to the neck or throat

Strangulation can be caused by the hands, or any other object that is used to prevent someone from breathing for any period of time. Strangling often occurs during a domestic dispute that has escalated. Oftentimes, it is an accidental act of emotion in which the defendant has no intent to actually harm an individual.

In order to be charged with felony strangulation, there typically must be injury to a person, or the threat of serious injury must have been present and immediate. Depending on the circumstances of the injuries, a felony strangulation conviction can result in fines up to $5,000, and a prison sentence of three years. However, you will also find yourself struggling with your conviction for the rest of your life. Any felony conviction can affect your ability to find employment, secure housing, vote, or even be with your children.

Felony Strangulation Defense Lawyer

In order to avoid serious jail time, heavy fines, and lasting consequences, you need a good felony strangulation defense lawyer. With the right attorney on your case, you can have your charges reduced – or even dropped. If the case goes to trial, your defense lawyer will help you get the best result possible, potentially including an acquittal that will leave you with no penalty at all.

Just because you are charged with felony strangulation does not mean you actually injured someone, or that you are a violent person. There are many cases where strangulation charges are filed under false or misleading pretenses. This often happens in a contentious divorce, or custody battle. When false charges are leveled against you, your lawyer will gather the necessary evidence to show that you are not guilty of a felony crime.

It’s important to consult with an attorney as soon as you are aware of the strangulation charges against you. The longer you wait, the more likely it is you will serve jail time and pay fines. A felony strangulation conviction can also cost you relationships with your children and loved ones.

Always a Free Consultation

If you are charged with felony strangulation, our attorneys are here for you. The experienced lawyers with the Brown Law Offices, P.A., will work hard to defend you, and get your charges reduced or even dropped. Don’t try to fight a felony strangulation charge alone. Call us today at 763-783-5146, or complete our free online consultation form.