PART FIVE—OPINION—Should “Unjustified” Be Defined in the Context of Minnesota Animal Cruelty Law?

In the fifth and final article of this five-part series, I discuss the current state of animal cruelty laws in the state of Minnesota and how these laws could be improved to provide a clearer standard for the public. To learn about the history of animal cruelty laws and its evolution, click here to start from the […]
The Life Cycle of a Workers’ Compensation Claim

The workers’ compensation system in Minnesota is an administrative process and, therefore, is different than a civil lawsuit. As a result, clients aren’t as familiar with the work comp process and what to expect during the duration of the time in the Minnesota work comp system. First, an injured employee will report the work-related injury to […]
Part Four—Animal Cruelty Cases After The State v. Gerard Decision

This is the fourth article of a five-part series on animal cruelty laws in Minnesota. This article will discuss the State v. Gerard decision and examine the impact the decision may have on the “unjustifiable” standard. While the court of appeals has rendered several decisions giving the lower courts insight on how “unjustifiable” standard in Minnesota Statutes section […]
Why Has My Work Comp PTSD Claim Been Denied?

Since October 1, 2013, workers who have developed PTSD, or Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, as a result of exposure to traumatic events while in the course and scope of their employment are entitled to workers’ compensation benefits in the state of Minnesota. Many of our clients with PTSD are police officers, state troopers, corrections officers, deputy sheriffs, 911 dispatchers, […]
Part Three—A Look At The Case Law: What Is An “Unjustified” Action Under The Minnesota Animal Cruelty Statute?

In this third article of a five-part series on animal cruelty, we will learn what is considered an “unjustified” action in Minnesota. To prove animal torture or cruelty, the State must provide evidence that shows beyond a reasonable doubt the defendant’s act, omission or neglect caused or permitted unnecessary or unjustifiable pain, suffering, or death […]