Stephanie Ann Christel

PRO

Stephanie Ann Christel

also known as Stephanie Ann Johnson

5.0
Rating: 8.0

Licensed for 14 years

Social Security & Disability Lawyer at Minneapolis, MN
Practice Areas: Social Security, Employee Benefits

2701 University Avenue SE, Suite 208, Minneapolis, MN

Free Consultation

About Stephanie

Biography

Experienced, compassionate, effective Social Security disability representation.

Experienced, compassionate, effective Social Security disability representation.

Practice Areas

2

Practice Areas

Social Security & Disability 85%

Representing clients exclusively in the area of disability, both Social Security Disability and Long-term Disability Insurance Benefits

17 years | 400 cases

85%
Employee Benefits 15%

long-term and short-term disability benefits, disability pensions, disability retirement benefits, MSRS, etc.

15%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Free Consultation

$0 first 60 minutes

Contingency

25%-25%

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2024 2019 2016

Licenses

Licensed in Minnesota for 14 years

State: Minnesota

Acquired: 2011

Authorized to Practice

No misconduct found

Location

Livgard & Lloyd PLLP

2701 University Avenue SE, Suite 208, Minneapolis, MN, 55414

livgard.com/attorneys/attorneys/stephanie-a-christel/

Stephanie Ann Christel's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

42 Client Reviews

Filter Avvo Reviews (42) Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.

Showing 1 - 5 of 18 reviews | Practice Area Knowledge

Posted by Katty | November 17, 2025 | Hired Attorney | Social Security Disability

Looking for a great SSD and/or Disability Pension Lawyer?

Stephanie Christel was an absolute God send for my family and I. I had applied for SSDI Benefits and been rejected twice mostly from my age. I knew I needed to hire a lawyer and had no idea where to start. I had called and left a message with the office Livgard and Lloyd PLLP, giving a brief explanat...ion of my situation. Within a day I received a call back from Stephanie. No only was she upbeat and informative, but kind to. Not only did Stephanie help me win my SSD case in court, she also won my lawsuit against the Pipetrades for my disability pension. Stephanie and her team worked countless hours putting together over 7,000 pages of medical documents and proof to win my case. I know that anyone looking for a disability lawyer would be very blessed to have Stephanie Christel fighting for them.

Posted by Kristine | December 24, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Social Security Disability

Finally got what was deserved

Navigating the social security system is difficult to say the least. Stephanie and her staff worked very well at assisting us with filling out paperwork, answering any questions we had and preparing my daughter for her hearing. I would have preferred at least one trip in person (I’m old school) but I... was amazed that we were able to get through this almost 2 year process all via phone & email. Even navigating the SS changing from NE to MN while my daughter attended college out of state. It’s amazing what a little pandemic can do for some progress. Thank you Stephanie and staff.

Posted by Khai Siharath | March 26, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Lawsuits & Disputes

Highly Skilled Attorney Who Delievered

We recently had the privilege of working with an incredibly talented attorney at Livgard, Lloyd & Christel, who navigated us toward victory in a case. From the moment we engaged Stephanie Christel’s services, we were impressed by her professionalism, expertise, and dedication to our cause. First a...nd foremost, Stephanie’s extensive knowledge and experience in the field were undeniable. She exhibited a deep understanding of the legal landscape related to our case, allowing them to analyze complex situations and devise effective strategies. Stephanie’s ability to find obscure legal precedents and use them to our advantage truly set her apart. What truly impressed us (on behalf of my mother), however, was her unwavering commitment to representing my mother’s best interests. Stephanie’s attention to detail and thorough preparation were evident in the courtroom, where she skillfully presented our arguments and exposed flaws in the opposition's case. Not only did they demonstrate exceptional legal expertise, but Stephanie also showed genuine empathy for our situation. She understood the emotional impact our case had on my mother and provided support and guidance every step of the way. Stephanie’s compassion made my mother feel like more than just a client; we truly felt like she was fighting for her as individuals. In conclusion, we cannot recommend Stephanie Christel highly enough. If you're seeking a knowledgeable and passionate attorney who will go above and beyond to achieve a successful outcome, look no further.

Posted by anonymous | February 13, 2024 | Hired Attorney | Social Security Disability

Exceptional SSDI Representation

I engaged Stephanie's services to represent me for my SSDI application. Her consistent and swift email responses exemplify her commitment to client communication and support. Furthermore, her office's assistance with form completion underscores their dedication to ensuring a smooth process for client...s. Stephanie's proactive reminders about deadlines and appointments demonstrate her attention to detail and thoroughness. From the outset, Stephanie provided insightful counsel, informing me that my claim might face initial denials but assuring me of success at the hearing level. True to her word, she advocated for my case, requesting approval on the record, which ultimately led to a fully favorable decision without the need for a hearing. This outcome speaks volumes about Stephanie's profound understanding of SSDI law and her ability to navigate its complexities with finesse. Beyond her legal prowess, Stephanie's unwavering dedication, professionalism, and exceptional efforts were instrumental in achieving this positive result. I am profoundly grateful for her guidance throughout this process, and I wholeheartedly recommend her services to anyone in need of SSDI representation.

Posted by Steve | March 07, 2023 | Hired Attorney | Social Security Disability

Great Attorney

I was referred to Stephanie by a number of people and an advocate group. I'm so glad we hired her. I had total confidence in her representation and knew she would give me the best shot for a win. She was always encouraging, very efficient and EXTREMELY knowledgeable. She knew exactly what needed to b...e done. Stephanie is hands down who you need to contact for your SSDI case.

See All Client Reviews

Stephanie Ann Christel's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Stephanie
Brian Feneis Murn headshot
Brian Murn

Social Security & Disability lawyer | Aug 03

Relationship: Co-worker

"Through my experience working with several Social Security attorneys I can confidently recommend Stephanie Christel to anyone looking for excellent representation. She deeply cares for her clients and is available to answer any questions. She diligently represents her clients which leads to her high rate of success in helping her clients obtain benefits. She is the right choice for anyone looking for a Social Security attorney."

Robert David Martin headshot
Robert Martin

Unknown lawyer | Aug 05

Relationship: Friend

"Stephanie is a passionate, compassionate, and extremely diligent attorney. She cares about her clients and does everything in her power to provide them with the results the deserve."

Ross Brenton Russell headshot
Ross Russell

Unknown lawyer | May 11

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Stephanie knows Social Security law. She is has built a solid reputation as an expert in the field and it is well deserved. She always works hard for her clients and makes sure their rights are protected. I endorse this lawyer."

Ryan Patrick Griffin headshot
Ryan Griffin

Social Security & Disability lawyer | Apr 29

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Stephanie for several years. Stephanie is smart, diligent, tough and friendly. Whenever I have a question related to Family Law and Social Security matters for my clients Stephanie makes herself available and has an answer. On all issues related to Family Law and Social Security I have and will refer family and clients to Stephanie's office."

Eric Lee Nelson headshot
Eric Nelson

Social Security & Disability lawyer | Apr 20

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Stephanie is perhaps the most conscientious, patient, and diligent lawyer that I have known. The areas of law in which she works are often times difficult, but she is profoundly dedicated to listening to clients and their needs. She then is persistent in her efforts to follow up and accomplish the best results for her clients."

Thomas B Burton headshot
Thomas Burton

Social Security & Disability lawyer | Apr 05

Relationship: Friend

"I had the pleasure of studying law with Stephanie when we were both law students in a summer study abroad program. She was a bright and diligent law student, traits I am sure she brings to her practice as an attorney. In addition to her legal knowledge, she is easy to talk to, personable, and friendly."

Jayme L. Lehman headshot
Jayme Lehman

Social Security & Disability lawyer | Apr 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have had the great pleasure of working with Attorney Johnson. She is a tenacious lawyer who puts her clients first and always works hard for each and every one of them. She is as talented as she is caring and knows how to get the job done. I endorse this attorney."

Brian S Wayson headshot
Brian Wayson

Family lawyer | Jan 21

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Johnson has spent a number of years working to help others both before and after becoming an attorney. Her dedication to others is evident in the areas of law in which she practices, as well as being recognized for her public service while in law school. It is clear her heart is in a good place, and when combined with her intelligence and dedication, makes her an effective advocate for clients needing assistance with family, social security, and wills related legal matters. I endorse this lawyer."

Kelly Fiege headshot
Kelly Fiege

Social Security & Disability lawyer | Dec 04

Relationship: Friend

"Stephanie Ann Johnson is an intelligent and hard-working attorney. She cares about her clients. She is diligent in her work to achieve favorable results for each client. I endorse this lawyer."

Peggy Lynn Stevens headshot
Peggy Stevens

Social Security & Disability lawyer | Nov 22

Relationship: Supervised lawyer

"Stephanie has been working with me in the area of Social Security Disability Law and Family Law for almost 7 years, first as a law clerk and then as an attorney. She has excellent writing skills and has handled and won very challenging disability cases. She is extremely responsive to all of her client's concerns."

Nathan Myrum Hansen headshot
Nathan Hansen

Social Security & Disability lawyer | Nov 22

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Stephanie is an excellent lawyer. Her clients like to work with her and she produces good results."

View All Endorsements
Brian Feneis Murn headshot
Brian Murn

Unknown lawyer

Robert David Martin headshot
Robert Martin

Unknown lawyer

Ryan Patrick Griffin headshot
Ryan Griffin

Unknown lawyer

Thomas B Burton headshot
Thomas Burton

Unknown lawyer

Jayme L. Lehman headshot
Jayme Lehman

Criminal defense lawyer

Linda Diane Morrison headshot
Linda Morrison

Family lawyer

Kelly Fiege headshot
Kelly Fiege

Unknown lawyer

Peggy Lynn Stevens headshot
Peggy Stevens

Unknown lawyer

Nathan Myrum Hansen headshot
Nathan Hansen

Unknown lawyer

Experience

Rating:  8.0 (Excellent)

Honors

2025

Client's Choice, Avvo

2016

Avvo 2016 Social Security Clients Choice Award, Avvo

2016

MN's "10 Best" Social Security Disability Attorney Nomination, American Institute of Legal Counsel

2011

Public Service Award, Minnesota Justice Foundation

2011

Cum Laude, William Mitchell College of Law

2008

Summa Cum Laude, Gustavus Adolphus College

2008

Norelius Service Award, Gustavus Adolphus College

2008

Psychology Honors Research, Gustavus Adolphus College

Work Experience

2020 - Present

Partner, Livgard, Lloyd & Christel PLLP

2017 - 2020

Associate Attorney, Livgard & Lloyd PLLP

2011 - 2017

Social Security Disability Attorney, Peggy L. Stevens and Stephanie A. Christel Law Office

2010 - 2011

Research Assistant for Professor C. Peter Erlinder, William Mitchell College Of Law

2009 - 2011

Law Clerk, Peggy L. Stevens Law Office

2009 - 2009

Law clerk, American Civil Liberties Union of Minnesota

2009 - 2009

Student Attorney, Anoka County Public Defender's Office

Associations

2017 - Present

National Associate of Social Security Claimants' Representatives

Attorney Member

2017 - Present

National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives

Attorney Member

2016 - Present

MSBA Social Security Disability Law Section

Attorney Member

2016 - Present

American Bar Association

Attorney Member

2012 - Present

United States District Court for the District of Minnesota

Attorney Member

2011 - Present

Minnesota State Bar Association

Attorney Member

2011 - Present

State Bar of Minnesota

Attorney Member

2009 - Present

Mitchell Hamline Law Review Alumni

Member

2010 - 2011

William Mitchell Law Review

Assistant Editor

2010 - 2010

Vale Corporate Law Moot Court

Member

2009 - 2010

Willilam Mitchell Law Review

Staff Member

2009 - 2011

American Civil Liberties Union - William Mitchell

President

2008 - 2011

Minnesota Justice Foundation

Volunteer

2008 - 2011

American Bar Association

Student Member

2008 - 2011

Excellence Development Program

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

Y. X. Yang v. Berryhill, civil no. 17-4330 (DTS)

Remanded to ALJ

S. Yang v. N. Berryhill, Case No. 17-cv-0686 (HB)

Remanded to ALJ

C. Jones v. Berryhill, Civil No. 17-cv-00470-PAM-DTS

Remanded by District Court and then Awarded by ALJ

See More Legal Cases

Education

2011

William Mitchell College of Law

Juris Doctor

2008

Gustavus Adolphus College

Bachelor of the Arts

2005

Virginia High School

high school diploma

Speaking Engagements

2016

CLE - Social Security Disability

Social Security Disability: Application to District Court Appeals

2013

CLE - Social Security Disability

Social Security Disability: Process and Practice

Languages

English

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution