Internet crimes like identity theft and Internet fraud are on the rise as the use of the Internet and electronic communications have become more prevalent. Because of this, the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) has begun to crack down, increasing the number of investigations and prosecutions of Internet and cyber crimes in their

pursuit of Internet criminals.

But what if you’ve been accused of a crime you didn’t commit? How do you choose the right lawyer? How do you even know if you need a lawyer?

Contact Our Criminal Defense Attorneys

Cyber crime penalties
Internet and cyber crime penalties can be severe, and a conviction can mean lengthy prison sentences and/or steep fines. In fact, one of the scariest things about facing Internet criminal charges is that most crimes committed online can be prosecuted in both state and federal court. This is because the nature of crime online often crosses state boundaries, leaving damages that can be felt nationwide.
Internet Crime in Minnesota
Internet crimes generally fall into two categories – white collar and criminal sexual conduct – both of which are considered felony offenses that come with the severest of penalties. These crimes include:
Identity theft
Possession or distribution of child pornography
Online solicitation of a minor
Computer fraud
Hacking
Credit card fraud and theft
Unlawful Internet business
Computer virus
Phishing

Do I need a lawyer if I’m innocent?
Being charged with any crime (major or minor) is a very serious matter. Anyone facing criminal charges risks severe penalties such as jail time, a criminal record, and potential life changing after-effects like loss or damage to future job opportunities, housing options, and even relationships.
There are a numerous defense strategies you can take when fighting a cyber crime allegation. But because the Internet and the arena of cyber crime are still in their infancy, there are still very few precedents establishing the law in this field, making it all the more crucial to have an experienced lawyer on your side – even, and especially, if you’re innocent.

How to choose a criminal defense lawyer
Internet crime investigations can be extremely rigorous, making it easy for innocent individuals to get mixed up in federal computer crime task force investigations. Before you know it, you may find yourself the target of criminal charges.
If you have been accused of a crime related to the computer or Internet, it’s important to seek legal counsel right away. Keep in mind, you’re going to need an experienced lawyer to provide you with an aggressive, confidential, and trusted defense no matter what the jurisdiction, whether it be state, federal, or even an international court.

Here are a few places to find your Internet criminal defense lawyer:
Referrals: Getting a referral from a trusted friend or family member who has worked with the attorney before is a great way to get a line on a qualified Internet criminal defense attorney in Minnesota.

Referrals: Getting a referral from a trusted friend or family member who has worked with the attorney before is a great way to get a line on a qualified Internet criminal defense attorney in Minnesota.

Professional Organizations: Look for organizations in your state, city, or county that are made up of criminal defense attorneys. Some will offer referral services or online directories, to help you find a qualified professional in your area.

Meeting or Phone Call: Meet with the attorney to find out if he or she has experience with cases similar to yours. A meeting can also help you determine whether the attorney is a good fit for you personally. If an in-person meeting is not possible, a phone call can typically weed out lawyers that aren’t a good fit too.

If you’re in need of an experienced Internet criminal defense attorney, call our office immediately. With so much at stake, you can’t afford to choose anyone but the very best, our Minnesota Internet criminal defense attorneys are here to advocate for your interests during these most critical, life-changing matters. We offer 24 hour availability seven-days-a-week and charge you nothing for your first consultation, whether at our office or in jail.