Best Criminal Defense lawyers in Minnesota

1,325 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Minnesota

>1.3k

experienced lawyers

Gregory Brooks Davis

105 Center Drive, Buffalo, MN

Criminal Defense +1

3.1/5

3.6

3 Reviews

2.6

20 Reviews

13 Apr, 2024 by Eric everson

Friendly, when they answer. I'm just gunna stay out of trouble and call it good.

10 Feb, 2024 by Grant vierling

21 Dec, 2023 by Dave skochenski

The paralegal in wright county is amazing. She went above and beyond trying to help me. Unfortunately due to an incompetent public defender from wadena county, the efforts were for nothing.

Christopher Michael Hanrahan

600 Nicollet Mall Ste 390, Minneapolis, MN

Criminal Defense Real Estate +2

3.1/5

3.1

66 Reviews

24 May, 2024 by Selena lindstrom

Helpful, kind, and supportive. Each lawyer is different and brings their own insight and experience.

13 Mar, 2024 by Kyle theisen

Called VLN about a bankruptcy case. Did the intake and had a consultation set up. After consultation, the individual told me they could help me with my case. Paperwork was supposed to be sent to my house to fill out and send back. The next step in my case would take place after the paperwork was sent back . Waited 2 weeks for the paperwork and it never came. Called the main office and they told me the lawyer I met with, reported back to the office that she doesn't recommend I file for bankruptcy and they can't help me. This is the complete opposite of what she told me. I consulted with debt relief programs prior, and my case meets the criteria for filing for bankruptcy. This organization wasted weeks of my time and lied to me. I could've used that time to pursue other options.

10 Mar, 2024 by Beth dougherty

When I called to get a referral for an Attorney, this place was rude and had a negative attitude towards me. Now I have a case with the Office of Police Review aka City of Minneapolis Office of Civil Rights and I am awaiting the results of the investigation report. As of 3 weeks ago the case was still open. I won't ever use this service again thanks to the legal counselors behavior.

Derek Thomas Johnson

151 4th St SE, Rochester, MN

Criminal Defense +1

3.0/5

1.0

1 Reviews

5.0

2 Reviews

02 Aug, 2023 by Dan bender

21 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous

Derek is as Crooked and slimy as Mark Ostrem! They defended the man who strangled me. OSTREM assigned DEREK & his Igor, STEPHANIE MORRIS, to be the "Prosecuting " attorney in my strangulation case .Johnsons us a CRIMINAL DEFENSE attorney who's brains are in his biceps! The man who STRANGLED me instructed them to continue the mental & emotional abuse. So GREG BECKMAN NOW WALKS FREE TO HARM OTHER WOMEN IN ROCHESTER

10 Sep, 2020 by Alan alexander

Got divorced, they got me all forms, did it myself.

Derek Thooft

5838 Blackshire Path Ste 204, Inver Grove Heights, MN

Business Criminal Defense Personal Injury +3

3.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

1.0

1 Reviews

10 Dec, 2023 by Seth thorson

Bullys people via home owners associations,

21 Apr, 2018 by Steven

Derek handled my matter in a timely and effective fashion. He was professional and easy to get along with. Will definitely never use any other attorney!

Ryan Timothy Conners

60 S 6th St Ste 2800, Minneapolis, MN

Appeals Business Criminal Defense +2 +5

3.0/5

3.0

8 Reviews

22 Mar, 2024 by Lula paloozah

Always taking "vacations" with your money. Stalls, does a lot of "busy work" and slick talking to make sure it looks like he's doing something. Commits perjury overall good lawyer if you are a deadbeat trying to make it look like you are not. So really 3 stars. but 1 star for honest parents.

06 Nov, 2023 by Joshua jacob

Hello I'm a single father and the twin cities. My son's mother has made it very difficult for me to be in my son's life. I speak from experience. Travis is a true gladiator! When representing his clients he spares no expense when fighting for you to be in your child's life. It is an honor to recommend him at the highest levels of expectation. Fortunately for me I have Travis on my side who has years of practice in the justice system, and has the experience and not just family law, business law, and criminal defense law with a appellate court practice. Literally at One stop shop. He takes the time to explain best possible outcomes, as well as the realities of least possible outcomes. In addition to this his retainer and hourly rate are very reasonable. I strongly recommend his services and legal support to anyone in my network in need of the best representation in the legal market. Thank you for reading!

04 Nov, 2023 by Jackie holton

Doesn't send itemized bills..... takes your retainer doesn't follow through or answer calls.Also previous history and got in trouble for this very behavior.......uses his divorce and sons story to make u feel he relates.

Laura J. Arguijo

60 S 6th St Ste 3100, Minneapolis, MN

Child Support Consumer Protection Criminal Defense +3 +6

3.0/5

3.0

8 Reviews

22 Mar, 2024 by Lula paloozah

06 Nov, 2023 by Joshua jacob

04 Nov, 2023 by Jackie holton

Grant D. Sanders

P.O.Box 753, Faribault, MN

Criminal Defense Juvenile Law Lawsuit / Dispute +3

3.0/5

3.0

4 Reviews

01 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous

I completely agree with the review titled “Liar and Con”. Makes sense why he’s a public defender and not an actual lawyer. Said he would help me with my case and never got back to me. Also referred me as “dude” over the phone, talk about unprofessional! JEESHHHH

18 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous

Grant talks a great game ! He tells you what you want to hear and then stabs you in the back ! I truly trusted Grant ! I told him everything he was at my house,my parents house and my brother's house. He met my dog ! In 2016 Grant was my attorney for a BB gun that was my son's that he gotten for Xmas the charge was felon in possession of a firearm and a meth pipe! I was scared of going to prison ! I kept saying that the police voliated my rights! About 6 months later Grant fills out this plea agreement for me and then gets me to come and sign the last page ! Because I truly trusted him and HE NEVER said anything about the illegal search of my car and I believe I am bi polar and don't understand what things I sign ! I sign! I JUST FOUND OUT November 2021 that YES the police voliated my rights and that the state went to dismiss the case and then Grant Sanders lied,tricked,cons me to make a plea !!!! My life is completely distroyed as this result !! I have even thought about killing myself! Grant Sanders should not ever represent anybody

25 May, 2012 by Charles

"Grant was appointed to represent me over 7 years ago when my public defender was called away from work. I was concerned that my matter would not get the attention it needed. Boy, was I surprised. Grant took the time to listen to me, gather the facts of the case (my prior public defender never had), and was willing to "take on" the judge when there were some unfavorable rulings. With his legal research and strategy, he was able to move the custody case out of a county where the judge had a bias against me. The result: a child protection case was dismissed, and I was granted sole legal and physical custody of my children. "If you're a married or single father, contact Grant. He is an advocate for a father's rights. He will do everything in his power to assist you. I have Grant on 'speed dial' should any issues arise with the mother of my children. Grant's service was more than I expected from an appointed lawyer- and my children consider him their "guardian angel." What distinguishes Grant is that he listens to you and cares about the outcome of your case. I wholeheartedly recommend Grant for any family or child protection matter."

Katherine Marie Menendez

316 Robert St N, Saint Paul, MN

Criminal Defense +1

3.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

2.3

3 Reviews

03 Dec, 2023 by Steven hicks

28 Nov, 2023 by Daniel camacho

Your parents are total failures for raising trash like you.

04 Oct, 2021 by Jason bethune

No response?????

Melanie Jayne Leth

Po Box 130, Dodge Center, MN

Business Criminal Defense Family Law +2 +5

3.0/5

3.0

3 Reviews

13 Dec, 2023 by Sara

If I could give Melanie Leth a zero star, I would. Do not waste your time or money hiring her! She has no problem taking your money, but has a problem doing the job you hired her for! Hired her June 2023 and we are still waiting for legal documents to be filed for an estate of a deceased person for the next of kin to be the personal representative, super simple case. She failed to do her job. Run fast and far away from her!

30 Mar, 2018 by Anonymous

My daughter and I used Melanie and she helped us out tremendously. Always got back to us in a timely fashion and answered all our questions. I would recommend her to anyone. She is very knowledgeable and gets results. Thanks for the great job Melanie!!

12 Dec, 2016 by Anonymous

I was told that Melanie is a very knowledgeable attorney. However, I am also told she does not work on her cases. I consulted with her but after talking to others she avoids calls all the time, does not give updates, and has made no progress on their cases in months. I decided not to hire her based on this information. If I am going to pay that much, I want some results.

Shawn Brent Reed

31 W Superior St Ste 402, Duluth, MN

Appeals Business Criminal Defense +2 +5

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

10 Apr, 2019 by Kathy

Shawn was engaged to determine if a real estate company was negligent in their handling of a sale transaction. Promised action within one month. He was given all documentation necessary to pursue the case but, despite promises, did not return phone calls and took no action on the case. We asked for all information/documents to be returned so we could engage another attorney and he had nothing to say/no excuses for doing absolutely nothing. Would never recommend....waste of our time.

12 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous

Mr. Reed drafted a purchase agreement and a gift of equity letter when my husband and I bought our home. He was very professional but also approachable; he treated all our questions as important, even though I'm sure some were pretty basic. His legal knowledge was impressive, as were the legal documents. He completed the work quickly and charged a very reasonable rate. We saved time and the costs of having a realtor; in fact, it was better to have Mr. Reed involved in the sale than a realtor because he knew the law and could answer all our questions and concerns - reliably. I definitely will hire him again if I need legal assistance in the future and I highly recommend him to my friends and family.

Shawn Renee Kennon

701 4th Ave S Ste 1400, Minneapolis, MN

Criminal Defense +1

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

17 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous

Lied to the judge saying she had reviewed my case 2 weeks before court. Which in fact she did not receive petition until 20 minutes before court. She made an agreements with district attorney before I got there. I didn't even talk to her about the case. Co hearsed me into signing documents I didn't want to sign....she lied to me told me I was t pleading guilty to anything...it was a different kind of court.. After court I fired her. And told her I didn't want her as my attorney. I told her to withdraw. She did not...prior to this I said something to her..she broke client confidentiality and discussed with other parties with out my consent. It took me months to get her off my case. I had gotten a call from a social worker that said Shawn lennon assigned her to my case. I told this social worker that I had fired Shawn kennon because she was more of an assistant prosector. I asked this social worker how could an attorney that I fired assign her to my case. The social worker told me the courts already assigned her. I told social worker if courts assigned her why didn't I get paper work. She hung up on me. The whole defense by this attorney was a disaster

03 Jan, 2014 by Chelly

Shawn is a great advocate she has assisted me on many personal matters in which they all where resolved successfully. She knows exactly how to advocate . If your not satisfied than she will work hard to get the results. Shawn is a well seasoned attorney with knowledge of Criminal, Family, and Civil Law. Shawn is well educated in the matters that she is representing clientel. She is has personal skills in which some attorneys do not have she is a well rounded person.

Bryan Michael Lindsay

225 First Street North, Virginia, MN

Business Criminal Defense Estate Planning +1 +4

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

12 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous

Scum of the earth. Vile and loathsome individual. No scruples or morals exist in him.

18 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous

Extremely knowledgable. Returned my calls immediately. He seemed like he really cared about my case. Super nice guy.

Gerald Kennie Wallace

306 W Superior St Ste 920, Duluth, MN

Criminal Defense Family Law Probate +3

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

18 Jun, 2021 by Anonymous

I caught a case about 8 months ago and with in that time I've spoke to gerald 1 time even after numerous calls to his office. He's made multiple promises even in front of the judge and has not followed through deffinently would not recommend him

21 Jul, 2016 by Anonymous

Later having a very bad experience with a previous attorney, I was scared to get too invested in any after that mess. But Gerald has far surpassed my expectations. He always goes above and beyond to make sure that I am represented as best as possible and to make sure that I have had nothing but fairness in and out of the court room. Gerald is hungry, and eager to do all in his power to help his clients. he has even met with me on weekends as to not interrupt my work schedule. I am very thankful to have him on my side. One of my favorite things about him is that he is a real person. He is funny and not a stuffy, stiff attorney with absolutely no persona which helps to make the whole ordeal of dealing with court a lot less stressful. I would recommend him to anyone in need of an attorney. Have a consultation with him and you will see that while he hasn't been practicing for a long time, he has everything to be one of the highest ranked attorneys in just a matter of time.

James David Fleming

201 N Broad St #200, Mankato, MN

Criminal Defense Litigation +2

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

15 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous

After visiting, networking, and researching criminal defense lawyers, I decided to call Jim Fleming. I really didn't expect that a high-powered lawyer like this would even take the time of day to help me with my problem. Boy was I wrong!! I called him and not only did he help reassure me on the phone, he saw me immediately. I had visited with several other lawyers already so i knew that I had several decent choices. After a long consultation in his office, i without hesitation knew who i wanted in my corner. He was calming, a great listener, and confident without being cocky. As the legal process took its course, he was always available to take my calls, and kept me well informed also. His presence and words seemed to hold a great deal of weight in the legal community from my experience. He was thoroughly prepared, professional and I even saw other lawyers coming to him for advice from other firms. My results were better than i could have possibly imagined after talking with all the other lawyers! Getting my life back is worth ten times what I paid to this man. If a MN lawyer of the year award isn't enough, do an internet search like I did. I could not be more satisfied, and can't thank him enough. Thanks Jim

03 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous

Called for a consultation. Fleming interrupted me while I was talking. He then proceeded to accuse me of violating some kind of ethical code for even speaking with him. He was rude, abrasive, and very mean. I am not sure about his skills as a lawyer, but I can vouch for his personality; that he is rude, impatient, and talks down to the average person.. I would not use Fleming unless he changed his attitude. When you hire a lawyer you are hiring someone to represent you, to be your voice, in a court of law. With Fleming as your attorney your voice will be volatile. I would like to add that his knowledge of the law may be top notch, this I do not know. Some people may find him to be a good fit. It is important to remember that when you hire an attorney, he is working for you. You are writing his,paycheck. You want an employee who listens to you and does not belittle you. I recommend calling him for a consultation and seeing for yourself.

Meagan Montee Guptill

PO Box 615, Cambridge, MN

Child Custody Criminal Defense Estate Planning +3 +6

+1 (763) 225-3912

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

29 Sep, 2024 by Shelly

Meagan misinformed me and told me she could mediate my divorce. She is a substitute teacher which says a lot in itself. I was a teacher in the same building she subbed in, and she never came to visit me, even when I asked her to. She took my money, and did nothing for me besides fill out some initials paperwork where she put in incorrect information. She is very distracted when talking to her, and the conversations are so short that is sends your head reeling. She was absolutely pathetic in every way.

27 Dec, 2023 by Kelly j

Not only is Meagan is professional she has a huge heart to help and do what is right by her clients. She is a great listener and has the ability to identify circumstances beyond the issues on the surface. I highly recommned Meagan for your next leagl needs. Thank you for all you did in our case Meagan, we could not have done it without your expertise!

Katrina Maria Viegas

227 W 1st St, Duluth, MN

Business Child Custody Child Support +7 +10

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

16 Apr, 2024 by Nate mitchell

I hired one of the partners. Awful and incompetent. Recommendation given to judge was not possible under statute and was essentially thrown out. Waste of money. Biased. Don’t hire

10 Mar, 2024 by Melisa mauricio

Matt Beaumier and his team are so kind and helpful. They truly care about the clients. They answered all my questions and concerns with care. I couldn’t have made it through my custody case without them. I highly recommend them.

Shuly Yang Her

1208 Hawthorne Ave E, Saint Paul, MN

Criminal Defense Family Law Government +2 +5

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

15 Mar, 2023 by Big me

This lawyer does not care about your feelings or anything about your case. Don’t care about the issue you tell her. I would not waste my time with her . Pass this person up.

13 Oct, 2021 by Jack

Shuly Her is a smart and talented lawyer and a really asset to the profession.

Tricia Dwyer

8200 45th Ave N, Minneapolis, MN

Criminal Defense Family Law +2

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

30 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous

just wanted to drop in and say that I saw your response on someone asking about a vehicle forfeited from a 2nd DUI. you went in really hard and absolutely unprofessional saying how they have done it 100s of time and just got caught and how they need A 12 STEP PROGRAM. all this judgment from someone who gave you 1 paragraph of information. they didn't even say details of the charges, and you were just a total B (can you guess the last letters?) I have no idea why you are a criminal defense attorney with such awful 'bedside manner'. as a CDA you should know many people are WRONGFULLY being charged every day. It is a serious issue in Minnesota. You disgust me. And I really hope people see your response and don't go to you. THE JUDGEMENT like you're some queen looking down on those lowly people who 'commit crimes'. You absolutely should switch careers. Sincerely, someone WRONGFULLY charged with a DUI, I WAS SOBER. I will win my case i already have a lawyer with compassion. Anyway, your response is the first I've ever seen from a CDA that is so despicable and judgemental. Shame on you. How about you make a mistake and then see how you're judged. Anyway just wanted to drop a note to say you're a disappointment to the profession. Obviously, you can't get a good lick of clients since you're using this platform to get a little side cash by answering questions. Retire. Go find a new career. Shame on you. Dont bother responding.

11 Jun, 2021 by Joseph

Over maybe 10 years now, I’ve hired attorney Tricia Dwyer several times for my family law, estate planning, and other legal needs. Tricia is extremely smart and is dedicated to her clients - she aims for perfection in all her work. Tricia has years of professional experience -no legal problem is too tough for Tricia Dwyer to handle. I know I have saved thousands of dollars by hiring Tricia-she’s extremely cost-effective in her work for people. Tricia is dedicated to helping her clients - she tries to really end your legal problems for good. I know maybe two or three dozen people -or more - who have had legal advice and help from Tricia Dwyer, for family law and criminal legal problems, and other sorts of messy legal problems, and we all can’t say enough good things about her. Go to Tricia’s website because I know she’ll post a few of the entirely unsolicited ‘Thank You’s!’ she’s gotten from her clients.

Ryan Scott Drea

333 Washington Ave N Ste 300, Minneapolis, MN

Appeals Criminal Defense +2

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

24 Jan, 2015 by Craig

Ryan was great. Throughout my case which was a DUI, there were several scenarios that were different than the average case. One example of this was that my license was a Wisconsin license but the incident happened in Minnesota. Whenever a question arose that Ryan did not have an immediate answer to he would search until the answer was found then respond. this would usually take a matter of an hour. Ryan was strait to the point about what options were available and what the prosecutor would be looking for or how to present my case. Even when the answer was not something I wanted to hear. He always made it feel like we were a team. What we need to do is... They are going to try and say this about us... Finally Ryan would answer a question I had at any time of day. I would text him and within an hour I would have a response. I think back to when I thought I didn't need a lawyer and cringe. This whole process is over whelming and having a person who is truly in your corner made it so much easier. Thanks Ryan!

01 Sep, 2014 by Jhontez

Ryan Drea had knowledge of how long video surveillance was kept (14 days) then it is erased. = He should have NEVER taken my money & represented me when he KNEW he couldn't retrieve something that had long since expired. The outcome: guilty with court fees & sts. I had to do my own investigating/called various police stations and talked to many officers-local and state- to find this out. (I do not recommend anyone to use an attorney cause they are all legal criminals. Do your own research and investigate. They ONLY help those select few-when the stars are aligned. The rest are screwed.) What I stated are facts as Ryan Drea knows.

Craig E Cascarano

150 S 5th St, Ste 3260, Minneapolis, MN

Criminal Defense +1

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

31 Mar, 2018 by Nicholas

Craig is an attorney that conducts his business with utmost professionalism. Handled an out of state case for me. Hired another lawyer in the state I was charged, at no extra cost. Extremely knowledgeable with criminal law. Helped me avoid a four year mandatory minimum sentence. I am just know getting off of my probation from the case. This man help preserve my freedom. Would recommend to anyone facing criminal charges.

21 Aug, 2017 by Anonymous

NEVER ANSWERS HIS PHONE DIDNT FIGHT FOR ANYTHING FOR ME & SHOWED UP TO MY COURT DATES. LIED TO ME MANY TIMES !! DONT LIKE THIS GUY AT ALL !! HES WORKING AGAINST YOU , THATS WHAT IT FELT LIKE FORSURE !!

Diane L Dodd

1250 Yankee Doodle Road, Suite 212, Eagan, MN

Criminal Defense +1

3.0/5

3.0

2 Reviews

14 Jan, 2022 by H.

She was a disorganized mess. Her attitude petulant attitude was impossible not to notice.

31 Mar, 2010 by Anonymous

She worked hard for me on my case and I know she cared about what happened. Worked with me on payments.

Joseph Ronald Heinrichs

150 W Park Sq, Owatonna, MN

Criminal Defense Family Law Government +1 +4

3.0/5

3.0

19 Reviews

31 Jul, 2024 by Paul

Mr. (Daryl) Bail is a joke. Hiring him means you're overpaying for legal services and there are plenty of other better lawyers in the area that cost THOUSANDS less. No sense of ethics whatsoever. He's openly disclosed to other people the amounts of money he has drained from his clients. Client confidentiality means nothing to this guy. I totally get why he's not a named partner at PHB. He'd ruin the firm's reputation. When looking for a law firm to represent you I suggest looking anywhere else.

10 May, 2024 by Francisco menchaca

I was very pleased how everything turned out to be. I’m not going to lie, I was very nervous and scared for the worst and thought that I didn’t have a chance. But with the help with my lawyer and the whole team from Patton Hoversten And Berg this wouldn’t be possible. So I want to give a huge Thank You to Joe Heinrichs and Andrea Lembke for helping me get through this all the way, none of this would be possible if it wasn’t for you guys. Thank you Patton Hoversten And Berg!

13 Dec, 2023 by Cindy moll

I had to appear in court for speeding. I hired this firm, and my case was assigned to Joe Heinrichs. Mr. Heinrichs was knowledgeable, professional, and effective. I believe Mr. Heinrichs secured the best possible outcome for me. I would recommend this firm, and especially Mr. Heinrichs to anyone in a heartbeat. I even thought the fee was reasonable.

Trenton Joseph Gahm

150 W Park Sq, Owatonna, MN

Business Child Custody Child Support +9 +12

3.0/5

3.0

19 Reviews

31 Jul, 2024 by Paul

10 May, 2024 by Francisco menchaca

13 Dec, 2023 by Cindy moll

Jason Michael Hiveley

9321 Ensign Ave S, Bloomington, MN

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Government +1 +4

3.0/5

3.0

6 Reviews

10 Oct, 2023 by Kozan nz

Place is horrible just like the the people who work for it! A bunch of tweaks that suck the money dry out of people.

29 Jul, 2021 by Jan kidd

26 Feb, 2021 by Dustin lehrke

Daniel Lee Griffith

343 3rd St, Intl Falls, MN

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Family Law +1 +4

3.0/5

3.0

1 Reviews

22 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous

When discussing about charges. He started to forget. He started to stutter and mumble. He is a decent lawyer but I would not recommend. He tried to help but he doesn't cut it. If you want to win and or have good court sessions. Get someone else.

Joshua James Dingel

7300 147th St W Ste 212, Apple Valley, MN

Child Custody Child Support Criminal Defense +3

2.9/5

2.5

2 Reviews

3.4

18 Reviews

08 Apr, 2024 by Takeysha robinson

I've been waiting 2 almost 3 years to get assistance with my divorce. They contacted me several months ago saying I'm on top of the list. I haven't heard from anyone since I've left several messages. This is ridiculous at this point!

05 Jan, 2024 by Lovey-4ever angelique

Very helpful and kind.

16 Aug, 2023 by Maureen lauer

No response to my message. I will continue to leave more. Disappointing.

Joseph Thomas Dixon III

60 S 6th St Ste 1500, Minneapolis, MN

Business Consumer Protection Criminal Defense +3

2.8/5

2.8

24 Reviews

09 Jan, 2024 by Tj forystek

I was referred to this group for a special needs trust. They basically charged me over $450.00, didn't listen, made assumptions, and finally said they were "too expensive" but have to bill me for the first hour. Needless to say, I ended the engagement. I would not recommend this law firm to anyone unless you're interested in wasting money on expensive, inexperienced lawyers that don't take their time to review your request but still charge their high rate.

09 Nov, 2023 by Jack klein

Awful firm, terrible people. I have nothing but negative things to say about them.

23 Aug, 2023 by Hannah erickson

Craig Alan Deutsch

60 S 6th St Ste 3200, Minneapolis, MN

Business Criminal Defense Intellectual Property +1 +4

2.8/5

2.8

24 Reviews

09 Jan, 2024 by Tj forystek

09 Nov, 2023 by Jack klein

Awful firm, terrible people. I have nothing but negative things to say about them.

23 Aug, 2023 by Hannah erickson

Jennifer Marie Novak

218 3rd St NW, Faribault, MN

Criminal Defense +1

2.8/5

2.8

5 Reviews

15 Jun, 2023 by Deborah morris

12 Apr, 2023 by Michael taylor

Easy to get to and the staff is helpful

13 Jul, 2022 by Tabithia whitehill

Dongfa Zhou

1 Water St W, Saint Paul, MN

Child Support Criminal Defense Immigration +1 +4

2.8/5

2.8

4 Reviews

22 May, 2021 by Nicoleva vu

20 Jan, 2020 by Thomas vue

Was expecting more with the money he asked for.

06 Aug, 2019 by John doe

He lost my case. Not so sure if it was intentional or it's just that he's not good enough. It's a waste of money if you ask me. Maybe it was the way that the system was set up... His ex-partner is the same.

Browse lawyers

Cities in Minnesota - Find a Lawyer Near Me

Browse lawyers

Practice Areas in Minnesota

Discover the ideal lawyer

You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code

FAQs

Questions? We have answers

What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Do for You

A criminal defense lawyer provides legal representation to individuals or organizations accused of criminal conduct. If you're facing criminal charges, a defense lawyer will work to protect your rights, build a defense strategy, and ensure you receive a fair trial. Their primary goal is to reduce or dismiss charges, secure an acquittal, or negotiate a favorable plea deal.

Criminal defense lawyers have extensive knowledge of criminal law and court procedures. They investigate your case, identify weaknesses in the prosecution's evidence, and represent you in court, ensuring that you have the best possible defense.

When Should I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

It’s crucial to hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible if you are facing any criminal charges. Some situations in which you should seek legal representation include:

Arrest or police questioning: If you've been arrested or are under investigation, hiring a lawyer early on can prevent self-incrimination and protect your rights during police questioning.
Felony charges: Crimes such as murder, assault, drug trafficking, or robbery carry severe penalties, including long prison sentences. A defense lawyer is essential in these cases.
Misdemeanor charges: Even for less serious offenses like DUI, theft, or simple assault, a lawyer can help reduce penalties, negotiate alternatives to jail, or get charges dismissed.
Plea negotiations: If you’re considering a plea bargain, a lawyer can evaluate the deal, advise you on its consequences, and negotiate for more favorable terms.
Probation or parole violations: If you’ve been accused of violating probation or parole, a lawyer can defend you against additional penalties or revocation.
Juvenile offenses: For minors charged with criminal acts, a criminal defense lawyer can protect their future by minimizing legal repercussions or keeping the case in juvenile court.

What Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Do?

Criminal defense lawyers provide comprehensive legal services to protect their clients’ rights throughout the criminal justice process. Their duties include:

Case evaluation and investigation: Reviewing the evidence, interviewing witnesses, and investigating the facts to develop a strong defense strategy.
Legal advice: Advising you on your rights, the charges you’re facing, and potential defense strategies, including whether to take a plea deal or go to trial.
Negotiating plea bargains: Working with prosecutors to negotiate a plea deal that could reduce charges or minimize penalties.
Court representation: Representing you in all court hearings, including bail hearings, pretrial motions, trials, and sentencing hearings.
Filing motions: Filing motions to dismiss charges, suppress evidence, or reduce bail, depending on the specifics of your case.
Trial preparation and defense: Preparing a defense strategy and presenting arguments, evidence, and witnesses during trial to contest the prosecution's case.
Appeals: If you are convicted, a defense lawyer can appeal the conviction or sentence, arguing errors in the trial process or legal rulings.

How Are Criminal Defense Lawyers Paid?

Criminal defense lawyers generally charge clients in one of three ways, depending on the complexity of the case and the lawyer’s experience. Payment structures include:

Flat fee: For straightforward cases (e.g., minor misdemeanors), some lawyers charge a one-time flat fee that covers all aspects of the defense.
Hourly rate: For more complex or ongoing cases, lawyers may charge by the hour, with rates varying based on the lawyer’s experience and geographic location.
Retainer fee: In cases where extensive work is expected, the client may pay a retainer fee upfront. The lawyer then bills against that retainer for their work on the case.

The cost of criminal defense services can vary greatly, so it’s important to discuss fees during your initial consultation.

How Much Does a Criminal Defense Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer depends on several factors, including the severity of the charges, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost guidelines are:

Misdemeanor cases: For relatively minor offenses, such as a DUI or petty theft, a flat fee may range from $1,500 to $5,000.
Felony cases: More serious charges, such as assault or drug trafficking, can range from $10,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the complexity and duration of the case.
Hourly rates: For cases billed by the hour, lawyers may charge anywhere from $150 to $500 or more per hour, depending on their expertise and the case's location.
Additional expenses: You may also be responsible for other costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, or the cost of private investigators.

Be sure to clarify the lawyer’s fee structure and any potential additional costs during your consultation.

How to Check the Credibility of a Criminal Defense Lawyer

To verify the credibility of a criminal defense lawyer, take the following steps:

Check their standing with the state bar: Confirm that the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state’s bar association. Look for any past disciplinary actions or complaints.
Read online reviews and testimonials: Platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google can provide insights from previous clients about the lawyer’s communication, professionalism, and case outcomes.
Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should have past clients or other professionals who can speak to their competence and work ethic.
Review their case history: Look at the lawyer’s website or professional profile to see their experience with criminal cases, including high-profile or complex cases.
Look for trial experience: If your case might go to trial, make sure the lawyer has a strong history of courtroom advocacy and success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most of your first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer, bring the following:

Details of your case: Be prepared to provide a detailed account of the charges against you, including any documents related to your arrest, police reports, and court dates.
Criminal history: If you have any prior criminal convictions, inform your lawyer so they can understand how that may affect your current case.
List of witnesses or evidence: If there are any potential witnesses or evidence that may support your defense, share this information during the consultation.
Questions for the lawyer: Prepare questions about their experience, legal strategy, and fees to ensure you understand how they will handle your case.
Bail or release documents: If you’ve been released on bail, bring any paperwork related to your release conditions or restrictions.

By being well-prepared, you can help your lawyer quickly assess your situation and begin building an effective defense strategy.

Best Criminal Defense lawyers in Minnesota

Browse lawyers

Cities in Minnesota - Find a Lawyer Near Me

Minneapolis

Saint Paul

Bloomington

Minnetonka

Eagan

Edina

Saint Cloud

Plymouth

Woodbury

Eden Prairie

Duluth

Roseville

Stillwater

Rochester

Wayzata

Apple Valley

Burnsville

Mankato

Hastings

Mendota Heights

St. Paul

Lake Elmo

Shakopee

Coon Rapids

St Louis Park

Maple Grove

Shoreview

Saint Louis Park

White Bear Lake

Inver Grove Heights

Hopkins

Chaska

Bemidji

Excelsior

Winona

Anoka

Chanhassen

Brooklyn Park

Oakdale

Prior Lake

Moorhead

Golden Valley

New Brighton

Maplewood

Blaine

Forest Lake

St Paul

Willmar

Arden Hills

Savage

Fergus Falls

North Oaks

Cottage Grove

Alexandria

New Ulm

Virginia

Brooklyn Center

Lakeville

Brainerd

Faribault

South St Paul

Waconia

Buffalo

Rosemount

West St. Paul

Austin

Fridley

Northfield

Farmington

Medina

Richfield

Elk River

Red Wing

Little Canada

Victoria

Cambridge

Hugo