Gross Misdemeanor
A crime more serious than a misdemeanor, punishable by up to one year in jail and/or a fine of up to $3,000.
A gross misdemeanor is a mid-level criminal offense in Minnesota, more serious than a regular misdemeanor but less serious than a felony. The maximum penalty is one year in jail and a fine of up to $3,000.
Common examples of gross misdemeanors in Minnesota include:
- Second DWI offense within ten years
- Theft of property worth between $500 and $1,000
- Stalking
- Certain domestic assault charges
- Fifth-degree drug possession
A gross misdemeanor conviction creates a criminal record and can significantly affect your life. It may impact employment opportunities, housing applications, and professional licenses.
In Minnesota’s criminal classification system, offenses rank as follows from least to most serious: petty misdemeanor, misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor, and felony.
Example: A person convicted of driving while intoxicated for the second time within ten years faces a gross misdemeanor charge. They could be sentenced to up to one year in jail and fined up to $3,000, along with losing their driver’s license.
When someone is charged with offenses like a second DWI, certain thefts, or stalking.