On your first felony court appearance in Minnesota, you will be advised by the judge of the nature of the charge. If you have not previously received a copy of the criminal complaint, you will be given a copy at the first appearance. The judge will tell you that you are not required to say anything or submit to interrogation. Anything you say in open court that is incriminating could be used against you at trial. If you appear without an attorney and can not afford one, the court will advise you that a public defender will be appointed to represent you at no cost. If you appear without an attorney and can afford to hire one, you should ask the court for a brief continuance in order to retain private counsel. You will not be required to enter a plea of either guilty or not guilty at your first felony court appearance. The prosecution will serve you in open court with a notice of evidence against you and of identification procedures. The court will then set the conditions for your release and schedule the next court appearance.
If you are facing your first felony court appearance, you will not want to do it alone. You will need an experienced Minneapolis criminal defense attorney to protect your rights. Attorney Robert J Shane has 28 years of successful courtroom experience to use in your defense.Call now for a free phone consultation at (612) 339-1024 or visit his website for more information at www.criminallawyerminnesota.com.
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