Subject: A 10-Minute Update That May Change How You View Strangulation Cases
Dear Colleagues,
Strangulation cases are among the most dangerous—and most frequently misunderstood—cases that come before our courts.
What makes these cases particularly challenging is this: they often present with little or no visible injury, yet the underlying conduct may represent one of the strongest predictors of future homicide. That disconnect between appearance and reality can significantly affect charging decisions, bail determinations, plea negotiations, and trial strategy.
I have attached a concise, easy to read training update (10-minute read) that brings together key medical facts, Minnesota legal principles, and practical courtroom implications that every judge and attorney should understand when handling Domestic Assault by Strangulation cases.
This update focuses on a few critical takeaways:
- Why lack of visible injury does not diminish the seriousness of the offense
- How Minnesota law treats proof and corroboration in these cases
- What these cases signal about future risk—and why that matters at bail and sentencing
- Practical insights for both prosecutors and defense attorneys
This is one of those areas where a small shift in understanding can have a significant impact on outcomes—and potentially on victim safety.
👉 Click here for a print ready copy of Training Update 26-6
👉Click here to access Update 26-6 on the Minnesota Judicial Training and Education Website
As always, I hope you find this both helpful in your practice and useful in the courtroom. If it resonates with you, please feel free to share it with colleagues who might benefit.
Warm regards,
Alan F. Pendleton
Of Counsel, Martine Law Firm
Director of Mentorship and Education
Former District Court Judge
Minnesota Judicial Training & Education Blog
MINNESOTA JUDICIAL TRAINING & EDUCATION BLOG 