Finding the best criminal defense attorneys in Fargo, North Dakota, can seem like a monumental task amidst the vast expanse of online resources.
When you enter a search phrase, such as “best criminal lawyer near me,” the results are flooded with directories claiming to showcase the best legal talent.
Unfortunately, many of these lists are swayed by advertising spend rather than a true reflection of legal experience.
That’s why we’re taking a unique approach by highlighting some of our competitors who, in our opinion, deserve your attention if you’re seeking top-notch Fargo criminal defense lawyers.
Why Adopt This Perspective?
Armed with extensive knowledge and a deep understanding of Fargo’s legal landscape, we are in a prime position to provide detailed and informed recommendations for those needing a criminal defense lawyer.
This method is crafted to offer better guidance than you might find on generic review sites like Yelp.com, Avvo.com, or FindLaw.com.
Our team at Arechigo & Stokka has firsthand experience with many of the leading Fargo criminal lawyers.
While we would be privileged to represent you, our primary goal is to ensure you receive the best possible legal defense, even if it means recommending another firm.
Below is our list of the top Fargo, North Dakota criminal defense lawyers. We selected each one based on their exemplary standards of representation, dedication to their clients, and profound impact on criminal defense representation.
6 Best Criminal Defense Attorneys
1. John T. Arechigo – Criminal Defense Attorney & Workers Compensation Law Offices of Arechigo & Stokka
John T. Arechigo is a managing partner at Arechigo & Stokka. His commitment to criminal defense was cemented during his time in law school, where he led the student-run Innocence Project clinic. Since graduating in 2006, John has focused entirely on criminal defense, providing his clients with unmatched experience and dedication.
John is deeply integrated within the Minnesota criminal defense community, offering his clients a comprehensive network of resources, including bail bond agents, expert private investigators, and other specialists. His approachability and availability set him apart; John ensures he’s within reach for his clients, offering his personal contact information for support outside conventional office hours.
John’s track record speaks volumes. He has a history of achieving significant outcomes for his clients, including pre-trial dismissals and acquittals in various charges. His proactive approach involves preparing for trial from the onset, a strategy that has proven successful in securing not-guilty verdicts for his clients. John’s commitment to his clients stays strong even after a case concludes. He actively pursues expungement for dismissed charges and has a notable track record of appealing and overturning convictions, further demonstrating his relentless advocacy.
John has been recognized multiple times as an Attorney of the Year by Minnesota Lawyer, including the prestigious Circle of Excellence honor. He’s also been selected as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers and subsequently named Super Lawyer.
If you’re looking for the best criminal defense attorney in Fargo, please contact us.
2. Robert V. Bolinske Jr. – Bolinske Law Firm
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Licensed to practice in North Dakota since 2000, Robert V. Bolinske Jr. has dedicated his career to defending the rights of those accused of criminal offenses.
His commitment and experience have not gone unnoticed; he has been honored with numerous prestigious awards. In 2014, he was selected as one of the National Trial Lawyers: Top 100 Trial Lawyers. The following year, the National Academy of Criminal Defense recognized him as one of the Top 10 Criminal Attorneys in North Dakota. He also earned a spot on the 2015 Great Plains Super Lawyers list.
3. Amanda Corey – Reichert Law
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Amanda Corey is a distinguished associate attorney at the Reichert Law Office. She quickly rose from her initial role as a Law Clerk in 2016. Amanda represents clients in state and federal courts in North Dakota and Minnesota. Her diverse expertise ensures comprehensive legal support for her clients, reflecting a well-rounded legal approach.
Amanda’s engagement with the legal community extends beyond her legal practice. Her involvement with the National Alliance of Victims’ Rights Attorneys & Advocates underscores her commitment to advocacy and justice for all. Super Lawyers’ recognition of Amanda as a Rising Star attests to her professional excellence.
4. Philip Becher – Sand Law, LLC
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Philip Becher is a partner at Sand Law, LLC, and is renowned for his exclusive dedication to criminal defense. At the core of Philip’s practice is a commitment to each client’s individual needs and circumstances. He understands the complexities and nuances of criminal defense and has cultivated a successful career by mastering every stage of the criminal defense process.
From pre-charge interventions aimed at circumventing prosecution to skillful negotiation of plea agreements and advocating for favorable sentences, Philip’s approach is both personalized and aggressive. Philip’s recognition as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers underscores his professional excellence and the respect he has earned among his peers.
5. Scott Patrick Brand – Nilson Brand Law
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Clients frequently praise Scott Patrick Brand for his direct and candid approach. They value his ability to discuss the realities of each case clearly and without sugarcoating. A native of West Fargo, North Dakota, with roots deeply planted in farm life, Scott embodies the hardworking spirit and determination required to go the extra mile in legal representation. His journey is marked by significant milestones, including his service in Operation Iraqi Freedom. This experience has honed his skills in straightforward communication, a trait that proves invaluable in his legal practice.
Scott’s ability to engage in open discussions with clients, opposing counsel, judges, and juries distinguishes him as a formidable advocate who values transparency and honesty in all aspects of his work. Super Lawyers’ recognition of Scott as a Rising Star underscores his commitment to excellence and impact on the legal community.
6. Nicole L. Bredahl – Barkus Law Firm, P.C.
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Nicole Bredahl is a partner at Barkus Law Firm, P.C. She grew up in Fargo and attended the University of North Dakota. During law school, Nicole took a year off to work on Capitol Hill. She returned to North Dakota and worked under her father, Jeff Bredahl. During her time there, he represented clients charged with some of the state’s largest drug conspiracy cases. At Barkus Law Firm, P.C., she successfully represented clients for charges ranging from driving under the influence to murder.
Attorney John Arechigo has a passion for criminal defense in St. Paul, MN. John received his J.D., from Hamline University School of Law and also carries a Bachelor of Arts from, The University of Minnesota. John was named Attorney of the Year for 2019 by Minnesota Lawyer. Additionally, John was also named as a 2019 Rising Star and was selected to Minnesota Super Lawyers in 2021. He devotes nearly 100% of his practice to defending individuals charged with a crime.