Brainerd Criminal
Vehicular Operation (CVO) Lawyers

Most law enforcement agencies in Crow Wing County follow a visibility model. They send out as many patrol officers as possible in order to deter crime. As a result, CVO cases are quite common. This infraction is so broad that if officers see any conduct they believe is unusual, they typically pull over the motorist and look for any possible evidence of any possible crime. The same thing applies if someone calls with a tip about a reckless or dangerous vehicle operator.

Frequently, when officers act so aggressively, the charges do not hold up in court. So, the diligent Brainerd Criminal Vehicular Operation Lawyers at Carlson & Jones can frequently resolve these cases successfully, usually without going to trial. We thoroughly review your case to find any possible defenses, then we aggressively stand up for you.

What is CVO?

Criminal Vehicular Operation is an umbrella term for any motor vehicle infraction which could seriously injure another person. Some examples include:

• Driving Under the Influence of Drugs or Alcohol: The standard of proof for this offense is slightly different from the evidence required in a DUI. In terms of their direct and indirect consequences, however, the two offenses are basically the same.
• Leaving the Scene of an Accident: These charges are among the most difficult cases to prove in court, as outlined below.
• Reckless or Grossly Negligent Operation: This CVO form is quite subjective. Running a red light could be considered reckless or grossly negligent. These mental states are worse than careless or negligent, but not as bad as intentional or malicious.

Depending on the facts, mostly the extent of the injury the alleged victim suffered, if any, CVO could be a simple misdemeanor, a gross misdemeanor, or a felony.

Some Common Defenses

If prosecutors charge the defendant with felony CVO and the evidence is weak, they often reduce the charges to misdemeanor CVO. That simple reduction significantly reduces the penalties.

Additionally, many CVO cases involve non-police witnesses. That’s especially true of most reckless driving and almost all hit-and-run cases. These people are inexperienced witnesses who often do not hold up under a Brainerd Criminal Vehicular Operation lawyer’s aggressive cross-examination.

Schedule a Consultation with a Brainerd Criminal Vehicular Operation Attorney

All criminal charges are serious, and they are all defensible. Weak evidence can lead to reduced charges or even the dismissal of a case. Experienced lawyers are well-versed with the legal defenses applicable to such cases and get the best possible outcomes for clients. For a free consultation with an experienced Brainerd Criminal Vehicular Operation lawyer, contact Carlson & Jones, P.A. at (218) 736-9429. Convenient payment plans are available.