Minnesota Criminal Law and Procedure

The Minnesota Practice Series is one of our favorite resources on many topics, and Criminal Law and Procedure is no exception. This multi-volume set covers all stages of a criminal case, from arrests and searches through pretrial, trial, and post-trial procedure. There are also sections on specific crimes and their defenses. Criminal Law and Procedure is available in print at the State Law Library, but it can also be accessed through Westlaw on the State Law Library's computers.

Although the name Minnesota Judges Criminal Benchbook implies this resource is just for judges, this resource is actually a practical handbook on criminal procedure. Like Minnesota Practice, this resource covers every stage of a criminal case and also includes chapters on DWI, extradition, and juvenile delinquency. You will also find helpful practice tips and notes from judges and experienced prosecutors and criminal defense attorneys. This resource is available in print at the State Law Library and many county law libraries around the state. 

The LexisNexis Practice Guide: Minnesota Criminal Law is a short and practical guide to criminal procedure issues. The guide is written by experienced practitioners and includes checklists for each stage of a criminal case. Minnesota Criminal Law is available in print at the State Law Library and at many county law libraries around the state, but you can also check out a digital copy through Lexis Digital Library. If you do not already have an account, Ask a Librarian to have one created for you. 

DWI and Traffic Offenses

Of the criminal cases heard in Minnesota state courts, 92% are misdemeanor or traffic cases. Minnesota Misdemeanors: DWI, Traffic, Criminal, and Ordinance Offenses is our go-to resource for any misdemeanor criminal issues. This resource covers procedural issues from arrest and charging to trial and post-trial issues, but also devotes specific space to constitutional issues specific to misdemeanor offenses and driving while intoxicated charges. There are also chapters on other common misdemeanor offenses, such as traffic issues, damage to property, theft, and drug issues. Minnesota Misdemeanors is available in print at the State Law Library and at many county law libraries around the state, but you can also check out a digital copy through Lexis Digital Library. 

The Minnesota DWI Deskbook is a practitioner-focused resource on all aspects of DWI law, including procedures related to stops and arrests, as well as subsequent procedures related to license plate impoundment, implied consent, and ignition interlock. This resource includes helpful tips from practitioners and includes a number of sample forms related to DWI practice. This resource can be accessed in print at the State Law Library, and we may be able to send you a sample form by email. 

Another helpful title is the Minnesota DWI Handbook, part of the Minnesota Practice Series. This handbook covers procedures in DWI cases and includes special chapters on types of sobriety, breath, and blood testing, as well as administrative penalties related to DWI cases. The Minnesota DWI Handbook can be accessed at the State Law Library and through Westlaw on the State Law Library's computers. 

General Criminal Law Resources

Nolo's Criminal Law Handbook is not specific to Minnesota, but it provides an excellent overview of the criminal justice system in the United States. This resource is written in plain English, so it can be easier to understand than resources full of complicated legal jargon. The book covers common criminal law topics, including search and seizure, Miranda rights, constitutional rights, and working with a public defender. It is a good starting point for those who are not familiar with the legal system or legal terminology. This book is available in print at the State Law Library and many county law libraries, but you can also access it electronically through the Legal Information Reference Center. To get started with this resource online, Ask a Librarian for access.