Defend Your Rights After Damage Allegations

Property Damage Defense representation in St Cloud and Apple Valley and surrounding Minnesota communities.

When you are accused of damaging someone else's property in St Cloud, Apple Valley, or anywhere in Minnesota, the consequences extend beyond repairing what was broken. You face criminal charges that may appear on your record, affect your housing options, and complicate employment. The charge itself carries weight even before a conviction, and how you respond in the first days shapes the outcome.

Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC defends individuals facing property damage charges in St Cloud, Apple Valley, and throughout Minnesota, including misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor cases. The firm reviews the evidence against you, examines how the damage occurred, and builds a defense that addresses both the criminal charge and the financial liability. Whether the allegation stems from a dispute with a neighbor, a landlord claim, or a situation that escalated unexpectedly, the goal is to minimize both criminal and financial consequences. The firm handles negotiation with prosecutors and court advocacy when trial becomes necessary.

If you are dealing with property damage allegations in St Cloud, Apple Valley, or anywhere in Minnesota, contact Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC to discuss your defense options.

What Happens When Evidence Is Reviewed

Your attorney begins by reviewing the police report, witness statements, photographs of the alleged damage, and any video footage that exists. In St Cloud, Apple Valley, or anywhere in Minnesota, this often includes reviewing text messages, social media posts, or repair estimates submitted by the property owner. The firm identifies inconsistencies, challenges the value of the damage claimed, and examines whether intent can be proven.

After the defense is built, you will know whether the prosecutor has enough evidence to sustain the charge. You will understand what penalties you face if convicted, what restitution amount is being demanded, and what options exist for reducing or dismissing the charge. The firm also prepares you for what to expect in court, including how to respond to questions and what the judge will consider when deciding your case.

The firm does not handle civil lawsuits for property damage recovery, but it does address the criminal charge and any restitution order that results from it. Once the criminal matter is resolved, you will know what financial obligations remain and whether the conviction can later be expunged. The approach is practical and based on the specific facts of your case.

Most people facing property damage charges have not been through the criminal system before and are unsure what to expect. These questions address the most common concerns that arise before someone hires an attorney.

You may have concerns about how this works

Property damage includes intentionally or recklessly causing harm to someone else's physical property, including vehicles, buildings, fences, or personal belongings. The charge can be filed even if the damage was accidental, depending on how the incident is reported and interpreted by law enforcement.
What counts as property damage under Minnesota law?
The property owner submits repair estimates, receipts, or replacement costs to the court, and the prosecutor includes that figure in the criminal case. Your attorney can challenge inflated or unsupported restitution claims by requesting documentation and presenting alternative valuations.
How does the court determine restitution amounts?
If the damage occurred during a confrontation, the prosecutor may also file charges related to the altercation, such as disorderly conduct or assault. Your attorney addresses all charges together and looks for defenses that apply to the entire situation, including self-defense or lack of intent.
What happens if the damage was caused during an argument?
You should hire an attorney as soon as you are charged or contacted by law enforcement. Early involvement allows your attorney to preserve evidence, interview witnesses while memories are fresh, and negotiate with the prosecutor before formal court proceedings begin.
When should I hire an attorney after being charged?
A misdemeanor carries a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine, while a gross misdemeanor can result in up to one year in jail and a $3,000 fine. The charge level depends on the value of the damage and whether you have prior convictions.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor?

Abedi Hanson Sletten PLLC represents clients throughout Minnesota from offices in St Cloud and Apple Valley. The firm responds quickly to new charges and works to protect your record and your future. Get in touch to start building your defense.