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Christopher Wesley Keyser

Criminal defense Attorney at Minneapolis, MN

5.0   99 reviews
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
Free consultation Virtual consultation available
  • Licensed for 14 years
    State MN
    Acquired 2008
    Status
    Authorized to Practice No misconduct found

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

About Christopher

Learn Christopher’s areas of practice.

5
Practice areas
  1. Criminal defense
    35%
    I am an award-winning defense lawyer who consistently gets cases dismissed or charges reduced. I always strive to keep my clients out of jail and their records clean. I bring experience from the federal government and the U.S. Army JAG Corps.

    14 years, 2,000 cases

  2. DUI and DWI
    25%
    Getting charged with a DWI doesn't have to ruin your life or career. Not all DWI cases are the same, and not all DWI lawyers are the same. I am an award-winning defense lawyer who consistently gets cases dismissed or charges reduced. I always strive to keep my clients out of jail and their records clean. I bring experience from the federal government and the U.S. Army JAG Corps.

    14 years, 2,000 cases

  3. Expungement
    20%
    I have a 96% win rate with expungement cases since 2008. My approach to sealing my clients' records is unique and the primary reason for my success. With a 6-8 month average processing time, you cannot afford to mishandle your expungement.

    14 years, 300 cases

  4. Domestic violence
    15%
    I am an award-winning defense lawyer who consistently gets cases dismissed or charges reduced. I always strive to keep my clients out of jail and their records clean. I bring experience from the federal government and the U.S. Army JAG Corps.

    14 years, 1,000 cases

  5. Federal crime
    5%
    Fighting the government requires someone with prior federal government experience. I bring Homeland Security and Justice Department experience to your side. I am an award-winning defense lawyer who consistently gets cases dismissed or charges reduced.

    14 years

BOARD CERTIFIED CRIMINAL LAW SPECIALIST WITH PROVEN RECORD OF NOT GUILTY VERDICTS AND DISMISSED CASES.

I am an MSBA Certified Criminal Law Specialist (a distinction held by less than 3% of all registered Minnesota lawyers). I have a reputation for pushing the envelope and not backing down. I continuously obtain case dismissals, acquittals at trial, and reduction of charges for my clients. Before opening Keyser Law, P.A., I clerked with the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. I am also an Officer (Major/O-4) and Judge Advocate (JAG) in the U.S. Army Reserve.

Photos and videos

Contact Christopher

Keyser Law, P.A.
Minneapolis Grain Exchange, Suite 310M
400 South Fourth Street
Minneapolis, MN, 55415
Keyser Law, P.A.
118 Chestnut Street East
Stillwater, MN, 55082
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Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  99 customer reviews
5 Star
 
98%
4 Star
 
2%
3 Star
 
0%
2 Star
 
0%
1 Star
 
0%
Posted by anonymous | April 7, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great experience, glad I hired him
I hired Chris for three expungement cases. He was helpful throughout the entire process and explained very clearly the process itself and the expected timeline. I was very pleased with the level of service and professionalism provided by Chris. Anytime I had questions he was easy to contact and quick to respond through email or phone. Most importantly, he WON all three cases. I would highly recommend him.
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Posted by Ian | December 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Expungement
Couldn’t be happier with the job Chris did. I googled expungement lawyers and came across Chris Keyser, he is the man! I got a new life!!
Posted by anonymous | March 17, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
I am DISABLED FEMALE VETERAN with 5 MENTAL WARDS and Hollywood Teacher
I liked my Civil Rights boyfriend Ralph Rios BILLION DOLLAR LAW FIRM Greene, Broilet, Wheeler at 100 WIlshire 21st Floor Santa Monica, California (best view in the world)-I was the only white teacher in Compton, California, I WAS A TENURE TEACHER FOR ALLL THOSE HOLLYWOOD CALIFORNIA MOVIE STAR KIDS IN OSCAR DEL HOYA NEIGHBORHOOD!! I am Disabled Female Veteran who has been in 5 Mental Wards in the USA I am a little shocked in Minnesota that I am charged as Criminal in my own home. I have dated alll those Hollywood movie stars at the Skybar Mondrian, Mrs Fields ex-husband (flew me Catalina Island),etc... NASA ASTRONAUT DOCTOR RUSSEL LINDERMAN, F-16 Military Commander San Marino California John Hicks, etc.. Department of State Daddy Cesar Martinez, and My DAD was BRITISH SAS John Scott from GORDONSTOUN (Alll those British ROYALS and Minnesota National Guard General Eugene Andrettoti) and my 3rd STEP-DAD ""MINNESOTA GOVERNOR PERPICH""" -- my BROTHER JASON PERPICH FLYS ALLLL THOSE BILIONAIRES AROUND!! I am meeting the Secretary of Defense Janet Cohen in the Bosnia War and First Female Air Force General WILMA VAUGHT,etc
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Posted by Grant | August 20, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Continued support from an excellent and knowledgable attorney
Chris handled a case of mine over a year ago, and throughout the year, some things came up that Chris really had no responsibility to address as he had successfully done his job with a fantastic sentencing outcome but he always took the time to follow up with me. I've had another criminal attorney who was supposed to ranked very highly and the fact is after the case was over, I couldn't get a word out of him unless it involved paying more. Chris is a stand up attorney, remembered the facts of my case for an entire year and when he was able to help, he did so, and as a secondary outcome, we applied for and got an early dismissal from probation and on my record a year after. Chris is by far the best attorney I have worked with and I highly recommend him. When I am able to get my case expunged in two years, Chris will be my immediate go-to.
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Posted by Francisco | March 5, 2020
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Expungement
I am very happy working with Chris. Since day 1 he helped me with my expungement case and was always there when I needed him. Chris Keyser is the best at what he does and I recommend him to anyone in the Twin Cities.
Posted by Jane | December 3, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
5 Star Attorney
It took some time getting the courage up to proceed with trying to get an expungement. Choosing an attorney was no small feat. When I interviewed Mr. Keyser, he was upfront about expectations and thorough on relaying the process should I go forward. I chose to retain him clearly knowing the risks and limitations of what I was trying to accomplish. He could not have done a better job of assisting me, and I couldn’t be happier with the outcome. If you are in need of an attorney, I highly recommend Mr. Keyser. He will go above and beyond in assisting you.
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Posted by Jeffrey | October 10, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Fantastic Lawyer
Christopher Keyser had truly exceeded my expectations! He explained the legal process, communicated thoroughly, and answered all the questions that had. I'm very thankful I had chosen him for my legal representation! The end result is EXACTLY what I was hoping for! I cannot thank him enough for all his hard work! I am now able to move forward with my life! Thank you
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Posted by anonymous | September 18, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Misdemeanor
I found Christopher Keyser here on Avvo, after visiting 2-3 attorneys, I decided to hire Christopher based on his abilities to provide a clear and concise step-by-step process. In the end, he was able to secure a negotiated dismissal of my case. I can't thank him enough for the amount of dedication he went with my case. I highly recommend Christopher Keyser to anyone seeking for the best possible outcome! I promise you, you will not be disappointed with his representation. He really, truly deserves this positive review!
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Posted by anonymous | August 30, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Tom D
Excellent. Professional. Chris kept me well informed and helped me through a stressful situation. Highly recommend.
Posted by anonymous | August 30, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
LL
Chris Keyser was very professional, punctual, and did an outstanding job advocating for and representing me. I would highly recommend him!!
Posted by Rob | August 20, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Unusual Domestic Case w/ added Disorderly Conduct - Chris was a perfect fit
When I was charged with two counts of domestic assault and one disorderly contact, not immediately charged after being held in Hennepin County jail for several nights, my husband and I reconciled. It was a night we wanted to put behind us and admittedly, due to an emotional statement my partner gave the police, and under the influence, a statement I gave implicating myself, this was not a case that was easily winnable for me, but Chris remained optimistic from the start and while I was ready for worst case scenario, Chris achieved the remarkable. In addition, I was charged in a town with a prosecutor (all of whom Chris was immediately familiar with) known for being a bit of a "hard-line" type. When I first contacted Chris, it was because he was one of the few lawyers I could find with actual specific domestic assault charge experience and I do NOT regret it. Chris listened to my situation before charges were even filed (those came 30 days after my being held and released with no bail or conditions and my partner and I were back living together moving on with our lives - Chris was able to get them to hold off on a no-contact order which from everything I read is standard in these cases, and that was our first big win) and laid out in a 45 minute phone call all the possibilities ahead: he explained charges could never come, charges could come within the month, etc. He even went as far as to explain what those charges would likely be if they were to come and explained that when and if those charges did come, then it would be time to get an attorney. Other attorneys started bullying me into paying retainers just in case the charges came. When the charges did come, I considered a few lawyers but Chris clearly had the most experience when it came to domestic violence charges, whether you are in a situation where you had reconciled or far from it, Chris knows what steps to take to get the most favorable outcome and bottom line is, we did. We were able to drop the domestics, which were pretty damning based on the recorded statement from my partner, and get a stay of imposition simply on the disorderly. In this case, considering the prosecutor, circumstances, time frame, etc., this was a blessing. Chris not only knew the law and was there for my MANY questions and concerns, responding quickly and thoroughly, but knew the system: he was familiar with prosecutors, judges, and who was likely to go for what (e.g., I wanted to be taken off random UA's at one point and while we made our best argument, he knew based on our judge, she was less likely to go for this than if we had drawn another judge from the pool.) Chris's extensive knowledge of the law and the people you'll be dealing with in the area make him a prime candidate for any case, I can only presume, but most certainly a domestic charge REGARDLESS of how unique your situation. He comes with a 5-star rating from me and I'm a pretty harsh critic. Thanks so much for all your assistance, Chris!
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Posted by anonymous | August 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Thank you for your great legal service!
Chris was very easy to work with, very approachable, personable as well as knowledgeable! And we received the best possible outcome! Which exceeded my expectations!
Posted by Jake | August 10, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Christopher Keyser Legal Review
Chris made the legal process go very smoothly. Easy to get in contact with and very willing to answer any and all questions. He had excellent legal knowledge on my case and was able to achieve minimum sanctions.
Posted by anonymous | July 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Review
I was charged with drinking and driving while underage along with speeding, and weaving between the lines. Unfortunately Keyser and I were only able to meet for the first time an hour before my court hearing, but it went well. I was satisfied with the outcome and the deal that was made, he worked efficiently and clearly put all of his effort into my case even though we were only able to meet and talk for an hour. Keyser is able to work efficiently under pressure and a time crunch, I would highly recommend him. He also took the time to understand me and who I am as a human being.
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Posted by Gabriel | July 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Chris Keyser
Chris is a very competent attorney that explains everything in simple terms so you can understand what is going on. He always has your back and will get you the best results possible. He charged a flat fee, so you don't have to worry about phone call costs.
Posted by Jeff | July 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Client
Chris Keyser did excellent job on my case it was fast and painless he got everything dropped I would use him over and over
Posted by anonymous | May 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Keyser is a true expert in the field!
Mr. Keyser is a fantastic advocate and expert legal advisor. He helped make a painful, difficult process as smooth as possible for me over the course of 7 months. We were up against a number of challenging barriers in my case, and in his diligent work, strategic thinking, and calm demeanor, he helped make a stressful life experience come to closure! I felt grateful and impressed by Chris each step of the way, and recommend him to anyone who is fearful, or feels intimidated by the weight of confronting the system. My life has been changed and it could not have happened without Mr. Keyser and his smart, and thoughtful legal, and human approach to making change happen for his clients! I won't forget how afraid and unsure I was at the outset of my legal needs, and all that was an unknown, but it was so worth it brave through it and to earn the wonderful conclusion to a long ordeal, all gained in having Chris leading the way by my side. You can, too. Choose Keyser Law, you won't be sorry!
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Posted by anonymous | April 21, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Chris Keyser Review
Chris was extremely knowledgable and helpful with my case. He was professional, confident, and very personable which helped us throughout the process. We were incredibly happy with the results.
Posted by Todd | April 17, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Expungement Approved!
Chris helped me through this proces and made it as painless as he could. HE was very thorough in explaining what the steps were for each of the parts and his review of my submissions helped me clearly state my case. I appreciated his service and responsiveness and I will recommend him to anyone I know that could use his services.
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Posted by anonymous | March 22, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Criminal defense for misdemeanor theft
Mr. Keyser, of all the attorneys I consulted with (about 7 others), was the most professional, reliable as far as being readily accessible, personable and knowledgeable. He was able to get a continuance for dismissal within less than an hour of negotiation, something I thought I most likely won't get. Mr. Keyser sat alongside my husband and I and took the time to explain every step of the way what to expect and what the result meant for me. My situation was complex in such a way that I was concerned about my criminal background and my immigration status. I am very thankful that even when I was willing to give up, Mr. Keyser worked hard to ensure that I got the most favorable result. Most of all, I appreciate the fact that he spoke to me like just a person; he didn't see me as just a criminal. I needed that. I needed someone to be on my side and to see that I am not the sum of a one time sour event in my life.
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Cost

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

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Judge Advocate
  • U.S. Army Reserve
  • 2010 - Present
  • Board Certified Criminal Law Specialist
  • Keyser Law, P.A.
  • 2008 - Present
  • Clerk
  • U.S. Department of Justice
  • 2008 - 2008
  • Clerk
  • U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement
  • 2007 - 2008
  • Clerk
  • U.S. Department Of Homeland Security
  • 2007 - 2008
View all work experience

Education

  • William Mitchell College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • N/A
  • University of Minnesota
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • N/A

Legal Cases

  • Felony Second Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
  • Not Guilty
  • Third Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
  • Not Guilty
  • Fifth Degree Criminal Sexual Conduct
  • Not Guilty
View all legal cases

Associations

  • National Association of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • Member
  • 2014 - Present
  • Washington County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • Minnesota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
  • Member
  • 2009 - Present
  • Minnesota State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
  • Hennepin County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2008 - Present
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2019
  • Criminal Law Specialist Certification
  • Minnesota State Bar Association
  • 2018
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2018
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2017
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2015
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2014
  • Spirit of Service Award
  • Association of American Law Schools
  • 2010
  • Public Service Award
  • William Mitchell College of Law
  • 2008
  • Outstanding Service Award
  • U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services
  • 2007
View all awards

Publications

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (26)
Given (27)
Endorse Christopher
Unknown Attorney | Jul 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 20
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Chris is thoughtful, energetic and smart. He works hard for his clients and gets them great results."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is a smart guy and works hard to take care of his clients."
Criminal defense Attorney | Apr 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is a bright lawyer and a strong advocate for his clients. I endorse Chris and recommend him."
Criminal defense Attorney | Nov 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is a lawyer who zealously defends his clients, and is not afraid to go to trial. He tries cases, negotiates hard, and gets the best possible results for his clients."
Unknown Attorney | Aug 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is an exceptional defense lawyer who genuinely cares about his clients. Chris is a colleague who I frequently turn to for help. I highly recommend Chris to anyone who may be in trouble."
Unknown Attorney | Jul 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is a passionate and aggressive advocate for his clients. Each and every case gets his individual attention. I would recommend Chris to anyone looking for a great criminal defense attorney."
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 18
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse the work and service of Chris and his firm; He is a great attorney in our community and I am glad to be able to refer friends and clients. Thank you."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Tough, talented and thorough litigator."
Family Attorney | May 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Christopher. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Unknown Attorney | Jan 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Keyser is selective, thoughtful, and knows just when to strike the right blow to the State's case. Clients aren't just cases to him, they're people."
Unknown Attorney | Nov 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | Oct 21
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I fully endorse Mr. Keyser. Mr. Keyser is a very skilled and knowledgeable attorney who has an excellent grasp on the law and works hard to serve his clients. I consult with him on many legal issues and trust his advice."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Mr. Keyser is a fantastic attorney. He is ready, willing, and fully capable of providing his clients with high quality & thorough representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | Sep 23
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I endorse Mr. Keyser for any criminal matter. He has a strong presence and a clever mind. These characteristics, coupled with his firm grasp on criminal law, consistently result in effective representation and excellent outcomes."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Chris is an excellent lawyer and fights hard for his clients. I have seen him get results and stand up to prosecutors when necessary. I would endorse this lawyer."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 19
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse Chris for both criminal and immigration law. He is a skillful and relentless advocate on behalf of his clients, and he provides first-rate legal services. I would not hesitate to send my family or friends to Chris if they needed legal representation."
Criminal defense Attorney | May 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I highly endorse this lawyer. Christopher is a fantastic lawyer and his clients will attest to it. He is passionate, driven, very intelligent and selflessly committed to his clients. I fully recommend him and endorse his skills. He is a great asset to our bar."
Unknown Attorney | Feb 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. His well thought out showers of avvo questions demonstrates his great sill and expertise as lawyer."
View more endorsements
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Minneapolis Criminal defense Lawyer Christopher Wesley Keyser
Christopher Wesley Keyser
Criminal defense Attorney
Minneapolis, MN
Licensed for 14 years
Free Consultation
Virtual consultation available