St. Paul Criminal Defense Attorneys
A criminal accusation can put your freedom, your career and your family’s stability at risk. Whether you have been arrested, learned that you are under investigation or received a call about a loved one in custody, you need answers—and someone ready to stand beside you.
At North Star Criminal Defense, we bring more than 45 years of combined experience representing people facing criminal charges in Minnesota state and federal courts. We listen to what matters to you, explain what comes next and build a defense around the facts of your case and the consequences you need to avoid.
You do not need to know exactly what you are facing before you call. Helping you understand your situation is part of our job.
Call 24/7 for a free consultation.
A Calming Presence. A Determined Defense.
For many people, the first conversation with a criminal defense attorney happens during one of the most stressful moments of their lives. You may be worried about going to jail, losing your job or explaining what happened to your family. You may not even know what questions to ask.
We will help you work through those questions without judgment. You deserve a clear explanation of the allegations, an honest assessment of your options and an attorney who takes your concerns seriously.
That support comes with a willingness to push back. We examine the government’s evidence, question its assumptions and look for opportunities to challenge the case against you. Our Not Always Minnesota Nice approach means we can be approachable with you and forceful in protecting your interests.
Your Defense Starts Before the Courtroom
The decisions made early in a criminal case can matter long after the initial arrest. Getting an attorney involved gives you someone to help you understand requests from investigators, prepare for court and address immediate concerns about custody or release.
Depending on your circumstances, our work may include:
- Responding to an investigation: Helping you understand your rights and handling communications with law enforcement.
- Addressing custody and release: Advocating for release and workable conditions while your case moves forward.
- Examining the evidence: Reviewing reports, recordings, witness statements, testing and other evidence supporting the allegations.
- Challenging the prosecution’s case: Identifying weaknesses, disputed facts and potential violations of your rights.
- Evaluating your options: Explaining the practical consequences of negotiations, motions and trial so you can make informed decisions.
We prepare for the possibility of trial while evaluating opportunities to resolve your case. The right strategy depends on the evidence, your circumstances and your goals.
Defense Against Minnesota Criminal Charges
A charge does not tell the whole story. What happened before the arrest, how evidence was collected and whether a witness’s account holds up can all affect the defense.
North Star Criminal Defense represents people facing misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor and felony charges. We also handle federal criminal matters, where the procedures and stakes require careful attention.
Explore our criminal defense practice areas to learn more about the allegations you are facing. If you do not see your charge listed—or you are unsure what the allegations mean—contact us. We can help you identify the issues and discuss your next steps.
Minnesota DWI Defense
A DWI can create immediate concerns about your ability to drive, get to work and care for your family. The criminal charge may be only one part of the problem.
Our Minnesota DWI section explains the different degrees of DWI, potential defenses, testing issues and consequences involving licenses, license plates and vehicles. Because deadlines may affect your options, contact us promptly after an arrest or notice of license action.
Explore Minnesota DWI Defense
Help Moving Beyond a Criminal Record
A criminal record can continue to affect your life after the court case ends. You may encounter obstacles when applying for work, looking for housing or pursuing other opportunities.
North Star Criminal Defense also helps people evaluate whether expungement may be available. Attorney James Gempeler devotes a substantial part of his practice to expungement matters and has written and presented on the subject.
We can review your record, explain the available options and help you understand what an expungement could accomplish in your circumstances.
Contact us to discuss your eligibility for expungement.
Serving St. Paul, the Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota
Based in St. Paul, North Star Criminal Defense represents clients throughout the Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota, including Ramsey, Hennepin, Washington, Dakota, Anoka, Carver, Scott, Sherburne, Isanti, Chisago, Wright and Stearns counties.
Whether your case is close to home or elsewhere in Minnesota, contact us to discuss how we can help.
You Do Not Have to Figure This Out Alone
You may be ready to talk through everything that happened. You may only have one urgent question. Either way, we are ready to listen.
If you are facing an investigation, have been charged with a crime or need help for someone in custody, reach out to North Star Criminal Defense. We will help you understand where things stand and what we can do next.
Call 24/7 or request a free consultation online.