Being charged with a crime is one of the most frightening things a person can go through. Your once normal life takes a turn for the worse, and you’re left asking yourself: “Is my life over? Will I lose my job? My family? How do I even start to fight this?” It can feel like the system is rigged against you, and that no one is truly on your side.
The criminal justice system is complex, and it’s not always fair. That’s why having the right legal team is so important. You need someone who knows the system, can protect your rights, and will fight for your future like it’s their own.
At Meshbesher & Spence, we’ve been standing up for Minnesotans since 1961. With over 60 years of service, our Rochester criminal defense lawyers work hard to review the evidence, question how the arrest was handled, negotiate with prosecutors, and build a solid defense strategy tailored to your situation.
Call us today at 507-280-8090 or fill out our online form for a 100% free consultation. We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights, and help you take the first step toward putting this behind you.
“Meshbesher & Spence are excellent attorneys. They fight hard for you. Excellent communication with me, they make sure everyone is on the same page, going through litigation. If you have a problem along the way, don’t hesitate to call them. I highly recommend Meshbesher & Spence.”
– Sam R. | Client
Crime in Rochester, MN
According to recent statistics, Rochester ranks in the 57th percentile for safety, meaning it is safer than 57% of cities but less safe than 43%. Each year, over 2,100 crimes are reported in our community: 198 violent crimes and more than 1,900 property crimes.
Below is a further breakdown of crime in Rochester, MN:
- The chances of being a victim of a violent crime in Rochester are about 1 in 618, which is actually less likely than the state average, but still something to take seriously.
- Crimes like assault, theft, and drug offenses make up a big part of what law enforcement focuses on.
- From 2011 to 2019, the city averaged around 500 motor vehicle thefts per year, with a record-setting 3,943 incidents in 2023 alone.
- 2024 saw 891 aggravated assaults and 414 robberies.
- The projected total cost of crime in Rochester for 2025 is nearly $115 million.
Even if it’s your first time in trouble, the court system won’t treat it lightly. Local prosecutors often push hard for convictions, especially in cases involving violence, drugs, or repeat offenses. And once you’re charged, it can affect every part of your life.
The system in Rochester is built to act fast. If you don’t have a Rochester criminal defense attorney fighting for your rights, you could end up with serious penalties, even if the case against you is weak or unfair. Reach out to Meshbesher & Spence online or by calling 507-280-8090. When everything’s on the line, we’re here for you.
Types of Charges Our Rochester Criminal Defense Attorneys Are Ready to Fight
At Meshbesher & Spence, we’ve helped people across Rochester and greater Minnesota defend against both misdemeanors and felonies, from first-time offenses to serious accusations. Whether your case is big or small, we treat it with the care and attention it deserves.
A Rochester criminal defense lawyer from our firm can support you in the following:
- DUI/DWI
- Gun crimes
- Criminal assault
- Domestic violence
- Theft and property crimes
- Internet crime cases
- Homicide
- Arson
- Embezzlement and forgery
- Sex crimes
- Obstructing the legal process
- Fleeing from a police officer
- Expungements
This isn’t a full list of every charge we handle. If you don’t see your specific case here, that doesn’t mean we can’t help. And if you have questions about your charges or what they could mean for your future, feel free to contact us. We’ll take the time to explain your options clearly and help you understand what comes next.
How a Rochester Criminal Defense Attorney Can Help You
Criminal charges can change your life in an instant, but they don’t have to define your future. What happens next depends on the steps you take and the team you have behind you. A skilled Rochester defense lawyer doesn’t just know the law; they know how to use it to protect you.
Here’s how we help you take control of the situation:
- Protecting your rights: From the moment of your arrest, we make sure those rights are respected at every step, including your right to remain silent and your right to a fair trial.
- Investigating the case: We don’t just take the police report at face value. We dig into the details, looking at evidence, talking to witnesses, reviewing search and seizure procedures, and finding anything that might help your case.
- Dealing with police and prosecutors: You don’t have to face law enforcement or the courtroom alone. We speak on your behalf, negotiate with prosecutors, and push back against any unfair treatment.
- Working toward dropped or reduced charges: Many cases can be resolved without going to trial. We work to get charges dismissed or lowered whenever possible, which can save you time, money, and stress.
- Representation in court: If your case does go to trial, we’re ready. We represent you in hearings, pre-trial motions, and at trial.
Why Choose Meshbesher & Spence: A Rochester Criminal Defense Law Firm That Cares About Your Future
Every individual deserves the right to a fair trial and professional legal representation. That belief is at the heart of everything we do at Meshbesher & Spence. We’ve been fighting for Minnesotans for over 60 years, and we know the courts and legal system here in Rochester.
But it’s not just about what we know; it’s how we treat the people we represent. You’ll get personal, one-on-one attention from a team that listens without judgment and works with you every step of the way.
Our team has helped thousands of clients get charges reduced, dismissed, or resolved through smart, aggressive defense, including:
- Not Guilty Verdict for Alleged Terroristic Threats: Despite a police-obtained “confession,” Mr. Bauer successfully argued the alleged victim was never in fear. The jury acquitted the client on all charges after three hours of deliberation.
- Not Guilty Verdict for Alleged 5th Degree Assault: Mr. Bauer presented a strong self-defense case for his client. The jury returned a not guilty verdict in just 45 minutes.
If you’ve been charged with a crime, don’t wait to get help. Call 507-280-8090 or fill out our online form to schedule a free, confidential consultation. There’s no pressure, just a chance to understand your options and get honest answers.
