The paperwork, explained
Complaints and blotters are written in their own language. These are the terms that come up in CAWPS episodes, in plain words, with the source for each.
Minnesota DWI degrees, explained
Minnesota has four degrees of driving while impaired. Fourth degree is a misdemeanor with no aggravating factors. Third degree is a gross misdemeanor with one aggravating factor. Second degree is a gross misdemeanor with two or more. First degree is a felony.
What does “charged by summons” mean?
Being charged by summons means the court sent the person a notice to appear in court on a set date instead of ordering an arrest. The summons comes with a copy of the complaint.
Charged vs. convicted
Charged means a prosecutor has formally accused someone of a crime. Convicted means the person pleaded guilty or was found guilty in court. A charge is an accusation, not a finding.
What is a police blotter?
A police blotter is the running log a police agency keeps of calls, incidents and arrests. Many local newspapers print a selection of it, usually a few lines per incident.
General information, not legal advice.