Minnesota § 609.17 - ATTEMPTS
Full text of Minnesota Minnesota Statutes § 609.17 — ATTEMPTS, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 609.17. ATTEMPTS
Subdivision 1.Crime defined.
Whoever, with intent to commit a crime, does an act which is a substantial step toward, and more than preparation for, the commission of the crime is guilty of an attempt to commit that crime, and may be punished as provided in subdivision 4.
Subd. 2.Act defined.
An act may be an attempt notwithstanding the circumstances under which it was performed or the means employed to commit the crime intended or the act itself were such that the commission of the crime was not possible, unless such impossibility would have been clearly evident to a person of normal understanding.
Subd. 3.Defense.
It is a defense to a charge of attempt that the crime was not committed because the accused desisted voluntarily and in good faith and abandoned the intention to commit the crime.
Subd. 4.Penalties.
Whoever attempts to commit a crime may be sentenced as follows:
(1) if the maximum sentence provided for the crime is life imprisonment, to not more than 20 years; or
(2) for any other attempt, to not more than one-half of the maximum imprisonment or fine or both provided for the crime attempted, but such maximum in any case shall not be less than imprisonment for 90 days or a fine of $100.
History:
1963 c 753 art 1 s 609.17; 1986 c 444
Official Publication of the State of Minnesota
Revisor of Statutes
Frequently Asked Questions About Minnesota § 609.17
What does Minnesota Statutes § 609.17 cover?
Section 609.17 ("ATTEMPTS") is part of the Minnesota Statutes, the codified statutory law of Minnesota. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Minnesota § 609.17?
A common citation format is "Minnesota Statutes § 609.17" (Minnesota). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Minnesota law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Minnesota official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Minnesota attorney.
How does Minnesota § 609.17 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Minnesota can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Minnesota.