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Minnesota Domestic Violence Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Domestic Violence and Criminal Law for Minnesota on
Q: What does the victim need to do to drop any no contact order if they don't have an advocate in a domestic
Jonathan Matthew Holson
Jonathan Matthew Holson
answered on Feb 11, 2025

Dropping a no contact order is not up to the alleged victim. It is a decision that is up to the Court. But the alleged victim can certainly contact the Court and request that the no contact order be dropped. A copy of that request would need to go to the prosecutor as well as the defense... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: I hurt my girlfriend and she tried to run me over there is no evidence of me doing anything but there is of her

Can she get in trouble or is it self defense I hurt her emotionally I didn't get physical and she tried to run me over

Thomas C Gallagher
Thomas C Gallagher
answered on Dec 19, 2024

If someone alleges an assault, either to police or in family court for example, that could qualify as "trouble" for the person accused. If facing a criminal assault charge in court, the defendant can raise the defense of self-defense, if he or she has some evidence to support that... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: After court I noticed that the DANCO order stated that I can’t trespass to my own home

After court proceedings were over I noticed that the DANCO ordered that I can not trespass to my own home. This was not brought up in court. I have a disabled child that needs to be home and court is still weeks away. I called everywhere with no answers. The pub def said she’d work on it but has... View More

Jonathan Matthew Holson
Jonathan Matthew Holson
answered on Sep 25, 2024

No, you cannot just show up to court and talk to the judge. There is a process that this would need to go through to modify the DANCO to allow you to go home. Modification would require a formal motion that would be served on the prosecutor and might also require an actual court hearing. Until... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce, Domestic Violence and Family Law for Minnesota on
Q: Desperately needing help to contest an erroneous divorce judgment & pursue a domestic abuse case.

1) My wife was physically & emotionally abusive with me for several years—especially from Spring ‘20 until she walked out in Nov. ‘22. Her abuse caused damage to a hip I had replaced in ‘19 & has left me dealing with the joys of complex PTSD. I was a scared, emotional wreck &... View More

Robert Kane
Robert Kane
answered on Aug 9, 2024

Unfortunately, it seems you are in a very difficult position. I apologize, but I am not sure what guidance can be given on a free online Q and A. Trying to set aside the default judgment may be an option if it wasn’t that long ago. If she left you in '22, an OFP seems untimely, unless the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce, Family Law, Real Estate Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: I need a lawyer for custody/divorce. Legal aid has refused to help. Can't afford private. Can the court appoint?

I am self-representing because I can't get a lawyer and it is not a criminal matter so not entitled to one. Can I submit a motion requesting the court to appoint me a lawyer since he is pushing this to trial? What steps do I need to take to create/submit a motion? Dakota County MN for court... View More

Robert Kane
Robert Kane
answered on Jul 4, 2024

In most civil cases, you do not have the right to a court-appointed attorney. This includes dissolution (divorce), custody/parenting time, and child support cases. In these cases you have the option to hire a private attorney. Some organizations use a sliding scale to charge for legal services... View More

Q: Is a contract for deed legally enforceable if it's not filed with the county, and how do I cancel one as the buyer?

CFD is through my ex-bfs brother. I wrote it up, because family and didn't anticipate this. I know that was stupid. I got an OFP against the abusive ex in April, so since he can't be here anymore, they've been trying to evict me ever since. And, refuse to buy me out. I'm not... View More

Robert Kane
Robert Kane
answered on Jun 24, 2024

I admit I do not have experience with your specific situation; and research and analysis are required. I did, however, want to comment. You ex's abuse (if proven) isn't necessary a breach of contract. Your investment in the property doesn't necessarily mean you are entitled to any... View More

3 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law, Family Law, Child Custody and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: Facing 5 felony charges from false accusations by husband's ex-wife in custody battle. Seeking advice on plea deal vs. t

I am currently facing five pending felony charges that have arisen from false accusations by my husband's ex-wife in a custody battle. She has a history of making unfounded claims, including allegations of harassment and stalking, which are untrue. The children involved have expressed missing... View More

Thomas C Gallagher
Thomas C Gallagher
answered on May 2, 2024

A lawyer cannot give legal advice about a plea agreement vs. trial, without being the attorney of record, after thorough review and time spent with the known facts, discovery from the prosecution and other facts and evidence; as well as research into laws that could relate to those. As a general... View More

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1 Answer | Asked in Family Law, Appeals / Appellate Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: How do I fight a “revenge restraining order” (OFP) that was filed against me—& granted?

My wife had been violent with me since 2014, but walked out & filed for divorce in Nov of ‘22. 8 months later, after being quiet about the abuse for years, I did a social media post discreetly talking about (I said no names or relationships) what I was & had been going through. The next... View More

Robert Kane
Robert Kane
answered on Dec 23, 2023

You will need to convince the court you are entitled to a new hearing because you were unable to attend. I apologize, but I don't know specifically what you need to file without more information. Perhaps another attorney can help. Based on the rest of your question, it doesn't seem you... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: I am in MN. have two charges from the same incident. They both Domestic Abuse charges.

This is my first time facing these types of charges. There is a No Contact order with my Mom (the alleged victim) that she doesn't understand.

I am scared I am going to go to jail. My Mom said they would just give me probation. She does not want me to go to jail. She also is afraid... View More

Thomas C Gallagher
Thomas C Gallagher
answered on Nov 27, 2023

Facing a criminal charge is a difficult experience. Especially in domestic assault cases, I suggest looking at both long term and short term problem-solving. The long-term is most important, of course. And the trigger for most long-term consequences is "conviction." So a good goal may... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: I am in MN. have two charges from the same incident. They both Domestic Abuse charges.

This is my first time facing these types of charges. There is a No Contact order with my Mom (the alleged victim) that she doesn't understand.

I am scared I am going to go to jail. My Mom said they would just give me probation. She does not want me to go to jail. She also is afraid... View More

Sarah Gad
Sarah Gad
answered on Nov 27, 2023

It is imperative that you maintain no contact with your mother while the no-contact order is in effect. Only the judge can lift the no contact order through a motion or request by the victim's advocate. Typically, a hearing will be held on the matter. Sometimes that judge will just issue an... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Immigration Law, Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: My wife got a misdemeanor charge against me for domestic assault. She's illegal immigrant legally married

She's legally married to me. My question is can she still get her papers. We have been working on them with our immigration lawyer. Now we have came to some personal life problems that got her sent to jail. 2 years married. Is there something we can do to fight for this as she's in... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Nov 23, 2023

In cases involving a misdemeanor charge, such as domestic assault, the impact on immigration processes can be significant. For someone in the process of obtaining legal status, a criminal charge can pose challenges, potentially affecting the outcome of their immigration application.

The...
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1 Answer | Asked in Civil Rights, Constitutional Law, Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: Unlawful arrest in Minnesota due to harassment statute. What legal actions can I take?

I was unlawfully arrested in Minnesota due to the broad wording of a harassment order statute. The incident began when I was goated into a conversation with my ex-partner, who then called the police when the conversation didn’t go her way. This was a continuation of manipulation and abuse on her... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Mar 24, 2025

Your situation sounds extremely distressing, and I understand your frustration with what appears to be an improper arrest. Minnesota law does have specific requirements regarding warrantless arrests, and the manner of your detention raises concerns about potential civil rights violations.... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Domestic Violence, Employment Law and Education Law for Minnesota on
Q: What steps should I take to press charges for a sexual assault that occurred last December in Minnesota?

In December last year, I was held down and sexually assaulted. There are eyewitnesses, and the assault is recorded in the high school's file. I have not yet reported the incident to the police or taken any legal action. What steps should I take to press charges and ensure my case is handled... View More

Jonathan Matthew Holson
Jonathan Matthew Holson
answered on Mar 21, 2025

Individuals don't "press" charges. Charges in cases like this are filed by the county attorney following an investigation by law enforcement. I would be surprised if this matter wasn't already investigated. You indicate in your question that the assault is recorded in the high... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Divorce, Domestic Violence, Family Law and Civil Rights for Minnesota on
Q: What steps should I take to secure documents and handle my husband's actions amid trust issues?

I am a stay-at-home mom currently staying at my parents' house with my 10-month-old twin girls. I am considering divorcing my husband due to serious trust issues. He has secretly recorded me during arguments and installed a hidden camera in our bathroom vent without informing me. He won't... View More

Robert Kane
Robert Kane
answered on Feb 28, 2025

Quite simply, hire an attorney immediately. If he can afford and attorney, he should help you if you need help. Ask his attorney for the documents. My best to you and your daughters. Rob Kane Minnesota Family Law Attorney Eagan Lawyer.

1 Answer | Asked in Immigration Law, Family Law, Personal Injury and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: Hello! I have a J2 visa - my husband kicked me out of the house.

Hello! I have a J2 visa - my husband kicked me out of the house. He is a narcissist, he was a psychological terror for almost 2 years, I am sure he cheated on me too. I work and I am fine. But I would like to know what I can do to stay here legally and disassociate myself from him.

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Sep 18, 2024

I'm sorry to hear about your situation. If you're on a J2 visa, your legal status is tied to your husband's J1 visa. However, you may have options to remain in the U.S. independently. You could consider applying for a change of status, such as an adjustment to a work visa or student... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Family Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: My ex filled a hro on me and she won't leave me alone keeps texting and calling me to get me to tlk

Talk to her she lied to get the hro on me saying I followed her and her child .but she has not had her son for 5 years she took and sold every thing in my home and I don't know what to do

Robert Kane
Robert Kane
answered on Aug 21, 2024

Your ex what? Wife? Girlfriend? Why can't you just block her? How did she take and sell everything in your home? So many questions. An attorney may evaluate your situation if you are planning on hiring one.

1 Answer | Asked in Child Custody, Civil Rights, Domestic Violence and Libel & Slander for Minnesota on
Q: How can I prove I am a victim of domestic abuse from my ex spouse if o never reported it to the police in MN

I was granted a harassment order against my soon to be ex spouse for the years of keeping me basically prisoner in my home, psychological abuse, emotional abuse, I am on disability and he refused to allow me to keep up my medical care, and more. The trial for the divorce has ended and the... View More

James L. Arrasmith
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answered on Jul 28, 2024

Proving domestic abuse without police reports can be challenging but not impossible. You can start by gathering any available evidence, such as text messages, emails, or voicemails that show abusive behavior. Medical records that indicate injuries or psychological harm can also support your claims.... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Family Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: Duo ofp

Abuser locked me out ruined my belongings and now he's serving me where is my rights as a victim

T. Augustus Claus
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answered on Oct 23, 2023

If you are a victim of domestic abuse or harassment in Minnesota, it's important to know your rights and the steps you can take to protect yourself. You can contact law enforcement to report the incident and document any damage or harm caused by the abuser. Seeking a restraining order, known... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: I was charged and appointed public defender. State attorney filed to have a certain judge removed from my case . I was

Never informed about this . Recieved a probation sentence and violated . Was resentenced by the judge state had removed . Is this lagit

Jonathan Matthew Holson
Jonathan Matthew Holson
answered on Oct 12, 2023

Did you admit to the violation? Was there an agreement as to the sanction? If so, then you would simply receive the same disposition in front of a different judge. Otherwise, the case could be set in front a different judge for a formal probation violation. But I don't believe that this... View More

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2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Minnesota on
Q: Am I able to request that my ofp be turned into a danco?

I have an ofp on my ex and have had it renewed, if u will 3 times over the last almost 5 years. He has been violated on this ofp. He recently bought a house on my road and is even closer to my home then before. Just out of the 1000ft ordered range. He drives by all hours of the night and is... View More

Thomas C Gallagher
Thomas C Gallagher
answered on Oct 4, 2023

No. a court cannot turn an OPF into a DANCO. A DANCO (Domestic Abuse No Contact Order) is based on a statute that allows a court to issue such an Order in a criminal case. So if a person is a defendant in a criminal case involving "domestic abuse" then the judge could issue a DANCO... View More

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