No contact orders can come about in many ways, but the sad truth is that some of the allegations that lead to no contact orders are false. By being granted a no contact order, the accuser may be making life difficult on the accused as a revenge tactic or so that they can get their way. When a couple breaks up or family members have a falling out, there is almost always a need to remain in communication, at least in the short term. Our Minnesota criminal defense attorneys often see that this causes issues for clients who have been named in a no contact order, even if the order is valid. They may have issues recovering their property or splitting up finances if they are unable to speak with their ex or estranged family member.
In desperation, some defendants feel they are forced to violate their no contact order. A violation of such an order is considered a crime, but how severe are the consequences for violating a no contact order?
Why No Contact Orders Are Violated
Every situation is different, but when our Minnesota domestic violence lawyers talk to defendants about their circumstances, we find that many ended up breaking their no contact order for similar reasons. One of the most common reasons is actually that the accuser who sought a no contact order has had a change of heart and wants to be in contact with the defendant. Even in a situation where neither party wants the order to be upheld, you must go through the proper legal channels. If you are found to have broken your no contact order, you can still be subject to a criminal charge.
Another common reason why a domestic abuse no contact order (DANCO) may be violated is because it was unfounded due to false accusations. Many defendants are understandably upset when a judge grants a no contact order because of something they didn’t do. It is tempting to contact the accuser to try to convince them that they should fess up and have the order lifted. Of course, this is also unadvisable because of the possibility of ending up with a criminal charge for a no contact violation.
Punishment for a No Contact Order Violation
In Minnesota, domestic abuse crimes are taken very seriously. If a domestic abuse no contact order has been granted, the courts do not take a violation of that order lightly. If you violate the order you will be charged with a misdemeanor. However, there are some circumstances that will increase the severity of your charges. If you are found to have violated the order within 10 years of a domestic-violence related conviction, your charges will be upgraded to a gross misdemeanor. This comes with a minimum of ten days’ imprisonment and mandatory counseling or other programs.
The most serious repercussion of violating a no contact order is being charged with a felony. This occurs when the defendant has had two previous domestic-violence related convictions in the past 10 years, or if they violate the order while in possession of a dangerous weapon. This conviction comes with a minimum of 30 days in jail, and a possible lengthy term in prison, although given the circumstances it is very likely that the defendant will be charged with additional crimes.
Criminal Defense Lawyers in MN
Navigating legal challenges related to a no contact order can be daunting. Whether you’re facing an unwarranted domestic abuse no contact order (DANCO) or need to defend against a violation of a no contact order, our expert team at Sieben Edmunds Miller is here to help.
Understanding No Contact Orders and DANCO Orders
A no contact order, including the specific domestic abuse no contact order (DANCO), aims to prevent the alleged offender from contacting the victim. Violating a no contact order can have severe consequences, making it crucial to understand what actions are considered violations.
Defending Against a No Contact Order Violation
If you’ve been accused of violating a no contact order in Minnesota, it’s essential to gather evidence and prepare a solid defense. Our Minneapolis and St. Paul criminal defense attorneys specialize in such cases. We assist clients in understanding what constitutes a violation of a no contact order and provide strategic defense to ensure your rights are protected.
Consequences of Violating a No Contact Order
Violating a no contact order can lead to serious repercussions, including fines and imprisonment. Understanding what happens if both parties violate a no contact order or what happens when you violate a no contact order is critical. Our experienced attorneys will help you navigate these complexities and present your case effectively.
Legal Implications for Victims Violating a No Contact Order
An often-overlooked aspect is whether the victim can get in trouble for violating a no contact order in Minnesota. The legal landscape surrounding this issue can be intricate. At Sieben Edmunds Miller, we offer guidance on what happens if someone violates a no contact order and ensure that all parties involved understand their legal responsibilities and consequences.
Why Choose Sieben Edmunds Miller?
Our team at Sieben Edmunds Miller brings extensive experience in handling cases involving no contact orders and violations. We offer personalized legal assistance tailored to your specific situation. Contact us at (651) 994-6744 to start working on your case. Our Minneapolis and St. Paul criminal defense attorneys are ready to provide the support you need to navigate the legal system effectively.
Serving Beyond Minnesota
In addition to Minnesota, we also provide legal support for violations of no contact orders in other regions, including Delaware. If you face charges for a violation of no contact order in Delaware, our knowledgeable team can offer the necessary legal counsel and representation.
Take Action Today
Don’t let a no contact order or its violation derail your life. Whether you need to fight back against an unnecessary order or defend yourself against a violation, Sieben Edmunds Miller is here to assist you. Contact us today at (651) 994-6744 and take the first step towards resolving your legal challenges with confidence.
