Richard F Carlson Jr

When I received a serious charge for an absurd reason, I had NO idea what to do or who to go to. Through someone my husband had heard from, I had called Rick while on vacation. I was scared to death, because if convicted of this charge, it would impact my entire career. While talking to Rick that ...first time, it became obvious to me that I was talking to a person with very high morals and values. The other thing that stood out to me, is that Rick is a man of Faith. He doesn't just "talk the talk," rather, he walks the walk. Rick was very clear in what he thought would be best by clearly communicating all of the options. He told us he thought that if we did the next right thing, which was to apologize, that honesty was the right thing to do. We did, and he was right. In fact, the outcome was even better than we had hoped, due to the hard work and diligence of Rick Carlson. The other thing about Rick, is that due to his outstanding character in the community, many prosecuters and judges enjoy working with Rick, because they know he is not going to try to cheat or lie his way through. Rick is an all around stand up person that really makes you feel like you have someone in your "corner," taking care of you from beginning to end. I truly can't speak higher about my experience with Rick Carlson. I am forever grateful for him.

Rick has restored my faith in the justice system by operating as an attorney guided by the principles of personal responsibility. First let me say, that I wasn't seeking the assistance of an attorney in hopes of securing some type of false innocent plea to an offense I was aware I was guilty of......I had been down this road before. But, having operated within the court system at the mercy of public defenders, and flashy 'phonebook cowboys', I was beginning to think my chances were better going into court alone. That couldn't be farther from the truth, for MANY reasons... I had the good fortune of being referred to Mr. Carlson through a work associate at the time of a previous violation, and from the initial consultation, I understood I was not dealing with a run-of-the-mill defense lawyer. First, his style of not coddling me or sugar-coating the role my previous history would play, in a straightforward manner, although eye-opening, was exactly what I needed to understand the severity of the situation I was facing. His ability to secure my release from jail on bond (which involve contacting a Judge in the middle of the night) on a weekend no less, came as a surprise not only to me, but the ENTIRE jail staff! Next, his immediate familiarity for the breadth of the ins-and-outs of the statutes that I faced gave me confidence that when time came to finally enter court together, I would be represented by an advocate who would be prepared with the expertise on how to present my case in a way that highlighted my unique personal situation. Mr. Carlson consistently demonstrated himself as an officer of the court who was recognized by both sides of the bench for his character, temperament, and inclination to see the value in seeking alternatives to his clients' spending time in jail or doing community service activities that did not allow the county, while still recognizing the underlying goal of 'rehabilitative punishment', to capitalize on the true skills these people were already bringing to the table within their communities, and finding ways for them to serve in those capacities. In the 10 years, I've known Mr. Carlson, he has consistently conducted himself with the utmost professionalism, flexibility, and creativeness, while treating me with respect, offering me great wisdom, and displaying genuine care and concern for the well-being of my children during AND after the process, and a sincere personal commitment to success going forward. I would not hesitate in the least to utilize his expert services again, or recommend them to friends, family, or anyone who needs an attorney who has distinguished himself within the Twin Cities Law and Courts System as someone, that Judges and prosecutors will stop and take a moment for, out of respect for his knowledge and objectivity. Thank you, Rick, for all you do!

My experience with Rick Carlson - was nothing less than life saving. Rick was straight with me - did not sugar coat anything. Told me exactly how deep of trouble I was in and exactly the work I had to do to make it to the other side. It was the "other side" I was not sure I was going to make it to. ... But his encouragement and support - and my family - I indeed made it through the darkest time in my life - - the court - my time served - and restitution - - Rick was supporting me all the way. Rick Carlson will always do right by you and your situation. And guide you if you are willing to listen.