Overall Rating
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
5.0 /5.0
88 Client Reviews
Free Consultation
$0 first 60 minutes
PRO
Mark Arneson
Virtual Consultation Available
Free Consultation
About Mark
Biography
I have dedicated my entire career to defending the rights of individuals facing criminal charges. After graduating Magna Cum Laude from William Mitchell College of Law in 1997, I began my legal career as a criminal prosecutor. The knowledge and insight I gained in that role gives me a unique advantage in defending my clients. My goal is always the same: to deliver proven results and give every client the dedicated, personalized representation they deserve.
For more than 28 years, I have focused exclusively on criminal defense, handling thousands of cases ranging from misdemeanors to serious felony charges. Over the years, I have earned recognition from leading legal organizations, including being named a Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorney in Minnesota, Top 100 Trial Attorney, and Top 100 DWI Attorney in the Nation. I am also honored to hold a “Superb” rating on Avvo, reflecting the trust and results I have achieved for my clients.
I believe that every person deserves excellent representation, no matter the circumstances. Whether you are charged with DWI/DUI, drug crimes, domestic assault, sex crimes, white collar offenses, or seeking to clear your record through expungement, I will fight tirelessly to protect your rights, your freedom, and your future.
If you are facing criminal charges or want to clear your record, I am here to stand by you, guide you through the process, and fight for the best possible outcome in your case.
Former prosecutor with 28+ years of criminal defense experience—Top-rated Minnesota attorney delivering proven results in DWI, DUI & criminal cases.
Relentless criminal defense with proven trial success—protecting your rights, freedom, and future.
Former prosecutor with 28+ years of experience defending DWI & DUI cases—results that protect your license and record.
Compassionate, strategic defense in domestic assault cases—protecting your rights and reputation.
Clear your record, protect your future—trusted expungement representation with proven results.
Discreet, aggressive sex crime defense—experienced trial attorney safeguarding your freedom and future.
Practice Areas
5
Practice Areas
Criminal Defense
35%
29 years
DUI and DWI
35%
29 years
Domestic Violence
10%
Expungement
10%
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Awards
2020 2019 2018
...
+
3
Licenses
Licensed in Minnesota for 28 years
State: Minnesota
Acquired: 1997
No misconduct found
Location
Arneson & Geffen
333 Washington Avenue North, Suite 405, Minneapolis, MN, 55401-1370
www.arnesongeffen.comGallery
Online Presence
Other places you can find Mark online.
Mark Arneson's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 74 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by anonymous | December 6, 2019 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
A Pleasure to Work With!
I hired Mark in October for a DWI charge and he was fabulous to work with. I made a huge mistake, but he was very compassionate about helping me to rectify it. He answered all of my questions and guided me through the process which I never could have navigated on my own. I was pleased with the outcom...
Posted by Zivan | February 13, 2020 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Owner
Mark was great from the minute we spoke on the phone. He walked me through the process and I learned alot as well. I hope I’m never in trouble again but if I am I have mark on speed dial. He’sa great lawyer and a great person.
Posted by anonymous | January 10, 2026 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
AA
Mark truly fought for me and was dedicated to protecting my best interests from start to finish. He took the time to explain everything clearly, kept me informed throughout the entire process, and made sure I understood my options at every step. I’m very grateful for his hard work and would highly re...
Posted by Andrew | December 9, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
The BEST defense representation
So thankful I was referred to Mark. He put me at ease from the beginning & made a very stressful situation so much easier to navigate. Case was dismissed thanks to his expert defense. Mark's genuine kindness & care for justice is what makes him the best choice for representation.
Posted by Matt | November 17, 2025 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
BEST OF THE BEST
I had an outstanding experience working with attorney Mark Arneson. From our first meeting through the conclusion of my case, Mark demonstrated exceptional knowledge, professionalism, and genuine care for my situation. He was always prepared, responsive, and clear in explaining every step of the le...
Mark Arneson's Lawyer Endorsements
"A top notch attorney who has great knowledge of the law. I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Mark is a highly knowledgeable and experienced lawyer in the area of criminal and DWI law. His reputation is A+. He zealously represents his clients to the highest degree. I give him my full endorsement"
"I endorse Mark. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Mark is a skilled practitioner who knows the system and the judges. He is often seen in courts across the State. I give him my full endorsement."
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Arneson is a well known and respected Criminal and DUI/DWI attorney in Minnesota."
"I endorse this lawyer. Mark is very experienced in the area of criminal defense and is a zealous and diligent advocate for his clients."
"Mark and I see each other in court state wide. I love discussing legal issues with him because he is an excellent lawyer! It is such a luxury in this day and age to work with and deal with a great lawyer like Mark!"
"Mark is an excellent, aggressive and thorough lawyer. I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Arneson stays on top of the cutting edge issues and always conscientiously represents his clients, getting results that most often would not have been possible without his work. I recommend him to anyone who needs criminal help at affordable, reasonable fee rates. Jeff Ring-Attorney"
"I endorse Mark because he has incredible integrity to go along with his excellent legal skills to make sure his clients are represented to the highest degree. Mark is simply a incredible person who is also a phenomenal attorney."
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Arneson has extensive experience defending criminal cases. He is well known and respected in the legal community."
Kurt Glaser
Criminal defense lawyer
James Chatto
Criminal defense lawyer
Mark Giancola
Criminal defense lawyer
Gerald Miller
Criminal defense lawyer
Judith Samson
Criminal defense lawyer
Ethan Meaney
DUI and DWI lawyer
Douglas Kans
Criminal defense lawyer
Todd Kenyon
Criminal defense lawyer
Patrick Cotter
Criminal defense lawyer
David Valentini
Criminal defense lawyer
Christopher Renz
Criminal defense lawyer
Maury Beaulier
Criminal defense lawyer
Max Keller
Criminal defense lawyer
Andrew Pearson
Criminal defense lawyer
Jeffrey Ring
DUI and DWI lawyer
Daniel Le
Business lawyer
Todd Peterson
Criminal defense lawyer
Charles Ramsay
Criminal defense lawyer
Experience
Honors
2025
Avvo Client’s Choice, Avvo
2025
Platinum Client Champion, Martindale-Hubbell
2025
AV Preeminent Peer Review Attorneys, Martindale-Hubbell
2022
Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2022
Top 25 Criminal Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association
2022
Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys Minnesota, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2022
Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2021
Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association
2021
Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2020
Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2019
Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2018
Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2017
Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2014
Top 100 Criminal Defense Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers
2013
Top 100 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Minnesota, American Society of Legal Advocates
2013
Top 10 Criminal Defense Attorneys Minnesota, National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
2013
Top 100 Trial Lawyers, National Trial Lawyers Association
2013
Top 100 DWI Attorneys in Minnesota, National Advocacy for DUI Defense
2012
Criminal Defense, Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services
2011
Criminal Defense, Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services
2010
Criminal Defense, Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services
2009
Crimianl Defense, Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services
2004
Rising Star, Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine
2004
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
2004
Rising Sar, Minnesota Law & Politics Magazine
2003
Rising Star, Minnestoa Law and Politics
2003
Rising Star, Minneapolis St. Paul Magazine
2003
Rising Star, SuperLawyers
Work Experience
2008 - Present
Partner, Arneson & Geffen
2001 - 2008
Attorney, Arneson & Associates
1999 - 2001
Associate Attorney, Meshbesher Law Office
1997 - 1999
Prosecuting Attorney, Rajkowski Hansmeier
Associations
2010 - Present
Minnesota Association of Criminal Defense LawyersMember
8th Judicial Circuit Bar Association
Member
2010 - 2011
Hennepin County Bar AssociationMember
2010 - 2011
Minnesota State Bar Association, Criminal Law SectionMember
2010 - 2011
Hennepin County Bar Association, Criminal Law SectionMember
Sample of Legal Cases
State v. Painter
State dismissed case at trial
State v. Mogendi
Trial Verdict, Not Guilty
State v. Aurzada
Trial Verdict, Not Guilty
State v. Martinez
Case Dismissed
State v. Berreth
Case Dismissed, License Revocation Rescinded
State v Her
Trial Verdict, Not Guilty
State v Kabasso
Case Dismissed
State v. Titus
Trial Verdict, Not Guilty
State v Haaland
Case Dismissed
State v McBorrough
Case Dismissed
State v. P.S.
Case Dismissed
State v. Andersen
Case Dismissed
Education
1997
William Mitchell College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1994
Minnesota State College & University - Minnesota State University, Moorhead
BA - Bachelor of Arts
Speaking Engagements
2010
Criminal Justice Institue
DWI Testing
Publications
2010
Minnesota State Bar Association
Urine Testing in DWI Cases
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Answers
Q&A
I have a refusal to test, it would be a felony dui in Minnesota. There wasno drugs found in the vehicle ?
03 Nov 2023
Q&A
What to expect for charges?
12 Oct 2022
Q&A
When will furnishing alcohol to a minor show up on a backround check?
22 Sep 2022