James and DanNorth Star Criminal Defense is a full-service criminal defense firm that prides itself on not only getting favorable results for its clients, but also on the fact that former clients routinely refer us to friends and family that need our services. Our clients get the respect and attention they deserve. Our success rests on these three guiding principles:

Not Always Minnesota Nice

One mistake or bad decision can lead to criminal charges. But, this doesn't mean you are a criminal. North Star Criminal Defense understands this. And this is why we work tirelessly, fighting for your rights while guiding you through the legal process. We are Not Always Minnesota Nice when using our nearly 30 combined years of experience to your benefit. We are trial attorneys first and foremost. Being comfortable taking any case to trial allows us to be calculated and strategic in both when and how we are aggressive during pre-trial litigation and plea negotiations. And through this approach, we routinely get favorable results for our clients.

Personalized Legal Strategy

Facing criminal charges can subject you to possible jail time, significant fines, and lengthy probation with unyielding conditions. You also face collateral consequences, such as losing your driver's license, and possibly your job or professional license. Understanding these consequences, North Star Criminal Defense takes the time to develop a personalized legal strategy for each client. To us, you are more than just another file. And that is why we take the extra time to learn about you and what is at stake. We then develop and implement a personalized legal strategy that will serve your needs best.

Unmatched Client Care

North Star Criminal Defense prides itself on its client service. We know that facing criminal charges is likely one of the most stressful times in your life. That is why we focus on giving you the respect and attention you deserve. This means that your calls and emails are answered as promptly as possible. Your questions and concerns will be addressed. And you will be informed throughout the entire process. We work tirelessly to earn your trust and to keep it.

View Dan's Profile Dan Adkins's Profile Image

Dan Adkins

Direct: (612) 600-8183
Main: (651) 330-9678
Dan Adkins has become rather ‘the man to see’ in the region, for folks facing criminal charges, based solely on his record of success since moving his practice to Minnesota in 1996. Victories include pre-charge declines, evidence suppression in s… Read More
View Dan's Profile
View James's Profile James Gempeler's Profile Image

James Gempeler

Direct: (952) 843-8766
Main: (651) 330-9678
James focuses his practice on criminal defense and expungements because he believes that a mistake or a single event should not define that person. He is diligent in his preparation, creative in negotiating with the state and arguing in court, and he… Read More
View James's Profile
View Sean's Profile Sean Paul Kehren's Profile Image

Sean Paul Kehren

Main: (651) 330-9678
Sean Paul Kehren graduated summa cum laude from Mitchell Hamline School of Law in January 2024. He was admitted to the Minnesota State Bar on Friday, May 10, 2024. Sean has extensive experience working in litigation – specifically criminal defe… Read More
View Sean's Profile
View Ariadne's Profile Ariadne Vieira's Profile Image

Ariadne Vieira

Main: (651) 330-9678
View Ariadne's Profile
View Cade 's Profile Cade Woltman's Profile Image

Cade Woltman

Main: (651) 330-9678
View Cade 's Profile
View Jessa's Profile Jessa Schroetter's Profile Image

Jessa Schroetter

Direct: (651) 330-9678
Jessa Schroetter is a second-year law student at Mitchell Hamline School of Law, with a career focus on criminal defense and family law. She brings a background in criminal justice research, highlighted by her role as a research assistant for the Vio… Read More
View Jessa's Profile
View Carrie 's Profile Carrie Munson (In Memoriam)'s Profile Image

Carrie Munson (In Memoriam)

Carrie was our amazing Criminal Defense Paralegal, with North Star from 2023-2025. Carrie's brilliant mind, sharp wit and dark humor made her well loved in our offices and she will be very missed. Read More
View Carrie 's Profile
View Chase 's Profile Chase Allen-Lloyd Passauer (In Memoriam)'s Profile Image

Chase Allen-Lloyd Passauer (In Memoriam)

It is not possible to summarize the amazing 23 years granted to Chase Allen-Lloyd Passauer, North Star’s first non-lawyer employee, and its heart and soul, to this very day. Read More
View Chase 's Profile