Don’t Underestimate The Impact Of A Misdemeanor Criminal Charge
While it’s true that misdemeanor criminal charges are considered less severe than felony charges, they still come with fines and possible incarceration up to one year. A conviction also means you will have a criminal record, which can negatively impact your career and other life opportunities.
You cannot take any criminal charge lightly. It is important to enlist the help of an experienced criminal defense attorney if you face charges of a misdemeanor offense. In Bismarck and surrounding communities, Bolinske Law Firm provides knowledgeable defense against a wide range of misdemeanor crimes. We work to minimize the impact of any criminal charge.
Common Misdemeanor Charges We Defend in Bismarck and Throughout North Dakota
Misdemeanor charges aren’t as serious as felonies, but they can still have a lifelong impact if you’re convicted. Prosecutors still have to prove each element beyond a reasonable doubt, so your defense lawyer can help minimize the impact—and in some cases, may result in dismissal or acquittal.
Bolinske Law Firm defends clients against a wide range of misdemeanors. Some of our most common case types include:
- Simple assault, including cases involving minimal or no injury
- Disorderly conduct, which is often based on subjective observations or complaints
- Theft of property or services involving lower dollar amounts, like shoplifting
- Criminal mischief involving limited property damage
- Reckless driving and other traffic-related misdemeanors
Sometimes the prosecution’s case seems stronger on paper than it really is. In other cases, the context might change things—like charges that stem from misunderstandings or accidents. Finally, prosecutors may “overcharge” defendants, even when the facts don’t support the offense level. We review the facts and look for the best way forward, whether that’s fighting for dismissal, negotiating a fair plea deal, or taking your case to trial.
Why Choose Bolinske Law Firm for Your Misdemeanor Case?
Prosecutors often push for fast resolutions in misdemeanor cases, but you deserve a defense lawyer who will fight for the best possible outcome. You need someone who understands how local courts operate and when to push back. A defense grounded in real courtroom work puts you in a stronger position from the start.
Founding attorney Robert V. Bolinske Jr. brings 25 years of criminal defense experience to every misdemeanor case. He has tried hundreds of criminal cases in Bismarck and throughout North Dakota. That experience shows up in practical ways, including:
- Willingness to litigate suppression and evidentiary motions when Constitutional violations occur
- Readiness to cross-examine officers and civilian witnesses when credibility matters
- Preparation to take a case to trial when the recommended outcome doesn’t match the facts or the law
Many misdemeanor cases resolve long before trial. It’s common for the prosecution to agree to reduce or amend the charge. They offer those deals more readily when they know that defense counsel is prepared to follow through in court. We don’t just accept the first offer that comes along—we carefully evaluate whether it’s fair or if another option would be better.
You’ll work directly with our founding attorney, from the first meeting through final resolution. Robert Bolinske handles:
- Case strategy and legal analysis
- Court appearances and motion hearings
- Plea negotiations and trial preparation
Robert Bolinske has been repeatedly recognized by premier legal institutions for his outstanding work. He’s successfully resolved thousands of cases since 2000. If you’ve been charged with a misdemeanor in Bismarck or elsewhere in North Dakota, contact us to get the defense you deserve.
What to Do if You’re Charged With a Misdemeanor in North Dakota
The steps you take after a misdemeanor charge can affect the outcome of your case. Here’s what to do if you’ve been arrested or charged:
- Use your right to remain silent: Officers may continue asking questions after an arrest or citation, but any statements you make without counsel can appear later in reports or testimony. Instead, remain silent and wait for experienced legal guidance.
- Don’t discuss the case with anyone: Avoid posting about the incident on social media or discussing details with friends or coworkers. Messages and photos often become evidence.
- Preserve any information related to the case: Small details can make a big difference. This might include anything from text messages and call logs to photographs and witness contact information.
- Contact Bolinske Law Firm right away: Early involvement allows us more time to review and request evidence and file motions. We can also guide you through investigations and address bond or pretrial conditions. Some issues must be raised quickly, or they may be waived.
Remember, the state must prove its case for a conviction. Bolinske Law Firm holds them to that burden at every stage. Don’t face off against prosecutors on your own. Instead, get help from a defense lawyer who knows how to deliver results.
North Dakota Misdemeanors
North Dakota has two classifications of misdemeanors — Class A and Class B. Class A misdemeanors are more serious and carry a penalty of up to one year in jail and a fine up to $3,000. Examples of a Class A misdemeanor include possession of marijuana paraphernalia or theft of property or services valued between $250 and $500. Theft of anything valued at $500 or less through fraud or embezzlement is also a Class A misdemeanor.
The penalty for conviction of a Class B misdemeanor is up to 30 days in jail and a fine of Examples of Class B misdemeanors include disorderly conduct, prostitution, and theft of property or services valued at $250 or less.
We Help Keep Lives on Track
One client we represented faced a reckless driving charge for allegedly running a highway patrolman off the road at 60 mph. A conviction would have resulted in the client losing his job. We argued in a jury trial that the incident was merely an accident rather than a criminal act. The jury agreed and our client kept his job.
The ramifications of a misdemeanor conviction reach far beyond a fine or a relatively brief jail sentence. A conviction can limit where you live, prevent you from obtaining admission to a college or receiving a scholarship, or seriously impede your career. If you face a misdemeanor criminal charge in North Dakota, it makes sense to speak with attorney Robert Bolinske Jr. to learn more about the implications and possible defense.
Put Our Experience to Work For You
We invite you to schedule a consultation by calling 701-255-3410 or using our online contact form to tell us more about your case. We will provide a candid assessment of what you can expect and recommend the steps to take next.