Accused of Assault or Threats Requires Strong Advocacy

Assault and Violent Threats Defense in St Cloud and Apple Valley and throughout Minnesota.

When you are accused of assault or making violent threats in St Cloud, Apple Valley, or anywhere in Minnesota, the charge is often based on conflicting accounts of what happened, witness testimony influenced by emotion, and interpretations of your words or actions. Whether the allegation stems from a bar fight, a family argument, or a misunderstanding in public, the consequences include jail time, a permanent criminal record, and restrictions on your freedom. The charge itself affects custody decisions, employment screening, and your ability to possess firearms.

Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC defends individuals accused of assault and threat-related offenses throughout Minnesota, including cases involving domestic and non-domestic allegations. The firm navigates complex factual disputes, challenges witness credibility, and examines whether the alleged victim's injuries match the story being told. In St Cloud, Apple Valley, or anywhere in Minnesota, this often involves reviewing surveillance footage, medical records, and text messages sent before or after the incident. The focus is on protecting your rights and your freedom through clear guidance and firm advocacy.

If you are facing assault or threat charges in St Cloud, Apple Valley, or anywhere in Minnesota, contact Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC to discuss your defense.

How Witness Disputes Are Addressed in Court

Your attorney begins by interviewing you about what happened, identifying other witnesses who were present, and reviewing any physical evidence such as photos of injuries or damage. In St Cloud, Apple Valley, or anywhere in Minnesota, this often includes obtaining body camera footage from responding officers, reviewing 911 recordings, and examining social media posts made by the alleged victim. The firm prepares for trial by deposing witnesses, filing motions to exclude prejudicial evidence, and developing cross-examination strategies.

After the defense is prepared, you will know whether the prosecutor can prove intent and whether self-defense applies to your situation. You will understand what penalties you face if convicted, what plea agreements are being offered, and what happens if the case goes to trial. The firm also explains how assault convictions affect your ability to own firearms under Minnesota and federal law.

The firm handles both felony and misdemeanor assault charges, but does not represent clients in civil personal injury lawsuits. Once the criminal case is resolved, you will know what conditions apply to your probation, what restrictions remain in place, and whether you can petition for expungement. The approach is grounded in the facts of your case and the credibility of the witnesses against you.

Assault and threat charges are often more complicated than they first appear, and many clients are unsure how to respond when the allegations are exaggerated or false. These questions address the issues that come up most often during initial consultations.

Most people have concerns before moving forward

Assault in Minnesota includes intentionally causing fear of immediate bodily harm, attempting to cause bodily harm, or intentionally inflicting harm on another person. You can be charged with assault even if no physical contact occurred, as long as the alleged victim believed harm was imminent.
What is the legal definition of assault in Minnesota?
Self-defense is a valid legal defense if you used reasonable force to protect yourself from imminent harm. Your attorney must show that you believed you were in danger, that the force you used was proportional, and that you did not provoke the confrontation.
How does self-defense apply in assault cases?
The prosecutor, not the alleged victim, decides whether to file charges. Even if the victim recants or refuses to cooperate, the state can still pursue the case using other evidence such as police reports, witness statements, or recordings.
What happens if the alleged victim does not want to press charges?
Assault becomes a felony if the victim suffers substantial bodily harm, if a dangerous weapon was used, or if the victim is a protected person such as a police officer, correctional officer, or healthcare worker. Prior assault convictions also increase the charge level.
When does an assault charge become a felony?
Terroristic threats are charged when someone threatens violence with intent to terrorize another person or to cause evacuation of a building. The charge is a felony and carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $10,000 fine.
What are the penalties for making terroristic threats in Minnesota?

Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC represents clients across Minnesota from offices in St Cloud and Apple Valley. The firm handles high-stakes cases with discretion and prepares every case for trial. Get in touch to start your defense.