- Felony exposure strangulation is charged well above misdemeanor assault.
- DANCO effects no-contact orders can separate you from home and family.
- Limited proof these cases often rest on one account and thin evidence.
Strangulation is charged as a felony in Minnesota and frequently rides alongside a domestic assault allegation. These cases often turn on limited physical evidence, the account of one person, and how an incident was investigated and documented. Because a strangulation charge raises the stakes well above a misdemeanor domestic assault, it deserves a careful, evidence-focused defense from the start.
A felony that raises the stakes
Minnesota treats strangulation as a felony under Minn. Stat. 609.2247, separate from and more serious than misdemeanor domestic assault, punishable by up to three years in prison. It is often added to a domestic case, which significantly increases the exposure - and the need for a careful defense.
Often one account, limited proof
Strangulation cases frequently rest on the account of one person and limited physical evidence. Medical records, photographs, timing, and prior statements all matter, and how the incident was investigated can be as important as what allegedly happened.
Evidence-focused, from the start
Keil Defense examines what the record actually shows, how the allegation arose, whether the investigation was fair, and whether self-defense or another defense applies. Strategy and judgment stay with the attorney throughout.
What is at stake
- Felony exposure, well above misdemeanor domestic assault
- No-contact orders (DANCO) that can separate you from home and family
- Impact on housing, employment, firearms rights, and family court matters
- Cases often built on one account and limited physical evidence
What the defense examines
- What the physical evidence does and does not show
- How the allegation arose and was investigated
- The role of medical records, photographs, and prior statements
- Whether self-defense or another defense applies
- The interaction with any DANCO and any family court case
Updated May 18, 2026 · Law verified as of May 18, 2026. This article is general information about Minnesota law, not legal advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is strangulation a felony in Minnesota?
Yes. Under Minn. Stat. 609.2247, assaulting a family or household member by strangulation is a felony, punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. It is more serious than misdemeanor domestic assault.
What is strangulation under Minnesota law?
The statute defines it as intentionally impeding normal breathing or circulation by applying pressure on the throat or neck, or by blocking the nose or mouth of another person. It does not require lasting injury to be charged as a felony.
These cases often come down to one person's word - can they still be charged?
Yes. Strangulation cases frequently rest on one account and limited physical evidence. That is exactly why how the allegation arose and was investigated, and what the records actually show, matter so much to the defense.
What if there is a no-contact order?
If a DANCO or other no-contact order is in place, follow it exactly - even if the other person reaches out. A violation can create a new charge. Speak with a lawyer about the order and the underlying case.
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Read the guideThe information on this article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship.