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James Rene Chatto

Criminal defense Attorney at Faribault, MN

5.0   29 reviews
  • Licensed for 26 years
    State MN
    Acquired 1997
    Status
    Authorized to Practice No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About James

Learn James’s areas of practice.

1
Practice area

With offices in Bloomington and Faribault, James R. Chatto represents clients in Minneapolis/St Paul metropolitan area as well as Dakota, Dodge, Freeborn, Le Sueur, Rice, Scott, Steele, Waseca and all other Minnesota counties.

When you are arrested and have a criminal charge, you can work with a criminal defense attorney who will help you get back to living your life. James R. Chatto is an experienced criminal defense attorney committed to providing the highest level of criminal law representation.

 

Good people have bad things happen. You can overcome your legal issues with the help of Chatto Law. Mr. James Chatto will explain your rights clearly and make sure you know the judicial process. It may very well be that the evidence against you was unlawfully obtained by an illegal search, an illegal arrest, or an illegal interrogation and is subject to suppression.

 

Are you afraid of the cost of legal representation?

Most attorneys charge an hourly rate, plus a supplemental charge for phone calls, postage, photocopies and travel time. As a result, legal fees quickly exceed one’s budget.

As a criminal defense attorney in Minnesota, Chatto Law takes a different approach and charges a flat fee for each case. You will know up front the total cost of your defense. The price quoted covers all work expenses including investigation, legal research, and court appearances. There are no hidden costs. By paying a flat fee you will not feel the “meter is running” and thus resolve your case quickly which may be contrary to your long term best interests.

The firm’s philosophy is simple:
All Adult and Juvenile criminal charges are vigorously defended within ethical bounds in order to obtain a favorable result that you deem fair.

Call for a free consultation.

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James Rene Chatto
1941 Cardinal Lane
Suite A
Faribault, MN, 55021

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  29 customer reviews
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Posted by anonymous | December 22, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing!
When I was wrongfully charged with a DUI for being in my parked car during winter, I was terrified of the consequences. James Chatto did everything he could to help me, and in the end, to my amazement, all charges were dropped. I didn't have to keep in constant contact with him over my two year legal battle, and yet he was always prepared and informed about my case. The flat fee/lack of hidden charges ensured I could pursue justice to the fullest without having to worry about expenses. He really seems to be someone who cares about his clients, I am so glad I hired him!
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Posted by anonymous | October 15, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional and Fair
James was very professional during our consultation. I didn't know what to expect and he asked me for the type of outcome I wanted with my charge and delivered it above and beyond my expectation. During the whole ordeal, I didn't need to worry or follow up with him. I had every confidence he was working hard for me and in the end obtained a lesser charge for me. I highly recommend him for anyone who needs a criminal lawyer.
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Posted by anonymous | September 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Really went above and beyond
He went above and beyond to make sure I didn’t get screwed over in my case I thought I was going to have to do jail time but he worked to the point where he got it down to just a 200 dollar fine im more than impressed with his work I’d definitely recommend this lawyer to anyone
Posted by Kevin | July 24, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A bs search and siezure
James is an amazing attorney and will do exactly as he says. You tell him what your goal is and he will tell you straight up if they are achievable and if not what he can do so you know what to expect. I can’t say enough good about him but if you need a kickass attorney that you can be honest with because he won’t judge you then he is your man I don’t think he could have made things any smoother for me. Hands down my go to guy. thanks James Chatto
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Posted by Juan | June 1, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Juan L.
After receiving a DWI citation, I received a card in the mail about James Chatto's services. After consulting with him, I knew that he was the right person to help me improve my future. Not only was he very attentive to all my calls and text messages, he managed to get my charges lessened to a careless driving citation. He answered all my questions, made me feel at ease and handled my case with a professional manner. No matter what degree of DWI charge you get, it can greatly impact your future job prospects and through James' help, I was able to open up more options for employment. He charges a fair, flat rate and sticks by your side and helps you navigate what would otherwise be a very confusing and scary situation. I would recommend James' services to anyone who has been charged with a DWI. We all make mistakes and James can help you get your life back on track.
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Posted by Annabelle | April 23, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommended
Mr. Chatto was extremely professional and very empathic in his work with me and my case. He made me feel like he, “had my back”. His fee was fair and covered everything. No hidden costs. Mr. Chatto was very respectful to me and did an amazing job with my case! I felt protected by him and really believed he fought for me 100 percent!!! I would highly recommend Mr. Chatto anytime!!!
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Posted by Betsy | October 4, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent Lawyer
He was a great help in my case, very good on responding email quickly, case was resolved and i'm happy with the results.
Posted by anonymous | June 15, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
He Exceeded Expectations
Mr. Chatto, in an unfavorable situation, more than exceeded expectations in a DWI case. I can not recommend him enough, he will put in the time and effort to get the best possible outcome. I would recommend him to anybody in a similar situation, and it is difficult to put into words how grateful I am.
Posted by Jordan | February 9, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Favorable verdict in a bad situation
He helped me out big time when it seemed I had no options available to me.
Posted by Tim | September 20, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
James did exactly what he says he's going to do
I hired James to help me navigate the judicial system to have my firearms right restored . He's fee was very fair and with his help saved me countless hours trying to accomplish this myself. I have my rights restored and very grateful to James for his fast efficent work.
Posted by anonymous | April 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great lawyer simple solutions for difficult situations
Great services very and listened to everything I had to say. Got the result I wanted
Posted by Aaron | March 27, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Above and beyond
I was referred to James Chatto by a family friend/lawyer who was too close to my family to comfortably represent me. Considering the source of recommendation I had no reservation seeking James out. He did not let me down whatsoever. James let me know clearly what I was facing, what my options were, and he stood by me. He was knowledgeable and wise. He demanded the truth be apparent on all sides and defended based on truth. He is a man of integrity, he is thoroughly versed in his profession, he demonstrates compassion regardless of the situation, you can witness his passion for what he does, and you can trust that he will do the work he is entrusted to do.
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Posted by Alan | January 18, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Profesional, fast, & informative
I had serious charges and was looking at minimal of 5 years prison. Attorney James R. Chatto was referred to me from a friend and he changed my life indefinitely. From beginning to end James Chatto was very professional and informative. He exceeds most lawyers response time because he sincerely cares about the client and their future. I have heard a lot of stories from other people about hiring a lawyer and being stressed out because the lawyer doesn't return their calls or keep them informed until the day before they're supposed to go to court. I hope I don't need a lawyer in the future but if I do it's going to be James Chatto he is worth every penny and is as professional as they come.
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Posted by anonymous | March 8, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
One of the best in his business
I recently got arrested for a DWI. Two days after the incident I received an invitation from James for a free consultation. Not knowing what I was facing in penalties I called him. We spoke for some time and he explained it all. I knew I needed him after the first few minutes. I'm a great judge of character and can tell you that James is the real deal. His knowledge, kindness and sensitivity are beyond compare. With his help we were able to plead my case down to reckless driving. I take help and kindness personally and James will always be a dear friend of mine. If you are ever in a similar situation or are facing a felony conviction, don't look anywhere else. James Chatto is your hope for a better tomorrow.
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Posted by Allison | February 14, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. James R. Chatto
My boyfriend got a DWI and the county wanted to give him the worst possible punishment, Mr. Chatto's expertise helped lower the sentencing as close as possible to his requests. We heard nothing but good things about James and decided to give him a call and he did a wonderful job and helped out a lot. I highly recommend him :)
Posted by Bryce | July 18, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent counselor and guide, exactly what you want in a lawyer
With several attorneys in my family, we wanted the best legal representation we could find when a family member needed a criminal defense attorney. Having known Mr. Chatto on a casual basis previously, I immediately thought of him to assist my family member, and am so happy I did. He guided us through the inherently stressful criminal process, was reasonable in cost, and obtained a result we are so happy with and grateful for. He is an intelligent, caring, and practical lawyer. I would absolutely retain Mr. Chatto again, and recommend him without reservation.
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Posted by Lora | January 12, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
The BEST attorney, professional and supportive
When I hired James Chatto, I was not sure if I picked a good lawyer, even after reading multiple reviews. The case I was involved in seemed complicated and scary to me, and I was afraid that he won't be able to help me. However, Mr. Chatto made the process incredibly comfortable with his confidence and support: I did not have to do anything, just provide details about the case and watch him do the rest. We got the result I could never hope for - a relatively small fine compared to much larger possible penalties. I could never thank Mr. Chatto enough for his help in preserving my good reputation and making sure that I don't stress out too much during the process.
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Posted by Gerardo Hernandez | November 12, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer
This lawyer supports you very good. Keeps you positive and on top of everything. He is very well motived to keep fighting for you. I would absolutely recommend him to everything.
Posted by MB | September 25, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent referral
In need of an attorney, I was referred to James Chatto. I met James for a consultation appointment. After this initial appointment I decided to move forward and hire him. My end result could not of turned out any better. I would highly recommend James for your attorney needs.
Posted by JB | September 21, 2015
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Attorney to Work With
I have hired James on a few occasions, so I can accurately attest that he is very professional, caring and all around a great attorney to have at your defense. He does a great job of explaining the situation to you as a client, the possible outcomes and also how things may best be handled. My last experience working with James he helped me get two felony charges dismissed before going to trial. We explored other options in my case before going to trial and ultimately waited till I had an offer of paying a level of restitution that I felt acceptable with. James has came to my rescue also in the past and was very helpful in my defense in DUI and also another felony charge, in which case he also got the felony dismissed. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a great defense attorney in the metro or southern mn area as I've worked with him on a case in the cities and also outside of the metro area. All around he is a great guy, who is easy to talk with and does a great job coming to your defense in your legal issues, I will highly recommend him to anyone I know that needs a great attorney
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 7.7 (Very Good)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Chatto Law
  • 2005 - Present

Education

  • William Mitchell College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1997
  • Saint Mary's College
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1989

Legal Cases

  • State v. M.L.
  • Jury Verdict: Not Guilty of all Counts

Associations

  • Rice County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2005 - Present
  • Minnesota State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1997 - Present

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Most Jury Trials
  • Minnesota 3rd Judicial District
  • 2006
  • Rising Star
  • Minnesota Lawyer
  • 1999

Publications

  • Minnesota Seventh Judicial District Public Defender's Office
  • Juvenile Law A Primer
  • 1998

Speaking Engagements

  • Legal Research for Solo Practice
  • Legal Research
  • 2006

Attorney endorsements

Received (5)
Given (9)
Endorse James
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"James is an excellent attorney and it is without hesitation that I recommend him for criminal defense work. He's smart, hard-working and takes the time to listen to his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I would highly recommend attorney James Chatto for adult and juvenile criminal defense legal representation. He has a long history of successfully handling Minnesota criminal defense cases and is well respected by fellow attorneys. I don't hesitate to refer people facing criminal charges to James Chatto."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr.Chatto is one of the best in the business. He is a true advocate and zealously represents his clients. A true professional. I fully endorse Mr. Chatto."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"James Chatto is one of the most talented trial lawyers I know. He had a stretch a couple of years ago when he had 10+ acquittals in a row. I do not know anyone else who has done that. James is very personable, but he is relentless when he's negotiating with the prosecution on behalf of his clients. He is direct and engaging and real. I think juries appreciate that."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 07
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse this lawyer's work. James Chatto has an excellent record of success at jury trial. He aggressively represents his clients' interests."
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Faribault Criminal defense Lawyer James Rene Chatto
James Rene Chatto
Criminal defense Attorney
Faribault, MN
Licensed for 26 years
Free Consultation