Best Civil Lawyer in Minnesota
Ashley Biermann
Civil Lawyer
A partner with Meshbesher & Spence, Ashley currently serves as the lead attorney for the firm’s workers’ compensation and PERA/MSRS disability practice areas. Her practice focuses exclusively on workers’ compensation, PERA/MSRS disability, and personal injury cases. Ashley has successfully litigated dozens of workers’ compensation hearings, PERA/MSRS, and Healthcare Continuation administrative law trials.
Ashley has lectured at continuing legal education seminars, including the Minnesota Association for Justice. She has also been a speaker at the HealthPartners Occupational Medicine Residency Program and has given presentations to police and firefighter groups across the State of Minnesota.
Ashley and her husband, Kyle, enjoy volunteering for dog rescue organizations and have fostered over sixty dogs, placing them into adoptive homes around Minnesota and Wisconsin. Ashley also serves on the Executive Board of Invisible Wounds Project, an organization near and dear to her heart as the spouse of a Minnesota police officer.
J. ASHWIN MADIA
Civil Lawyer
Ashwin focuses on trial practice in the areas of employment law, civil rights, securities litigation, medical malpractice, nursing home abuse, and catastrophic personal injuries. A Fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers, Ashwin’s trial advocacy has been widely recognized.
Ashwin started practicing law by fighting tough cases on behalf of some very desperate people. As a law student at New York University School of Law, he advocated on behalf of battered women trying to find protection, unemployed workers trying to make ends meet, and immigrants seeking asylum from torture. During his summers, he worked as a litigator in complex business litigation at two of the best litigation firms in the country.
After he graduated law school, Ashwin joined the U.S. Marine Corps and served as judge advocate. There is no better training ground for a trial lawyer – he tried over one-hundred felony and misdemeanor cases. Ashwin spent most of his time defending young Marines who had made bad mistakes and were facing many years in prison. He tried a lot of contested jury trials, and he is proud of the exceptional results he got for those Marines and Sailors, including one of the first successful defenses of a Marine who was discriminated against based on sexual orientation.
In 2005, Ashwin deployed to Iraq and worked with the State Department, Justice Department, United Nations, European Union, and Iraqi judges and attorneys to help establish the rule of law in Iraq. He served as a prosecutor when he got back from deployment in 2006 and obtained even more trial experience.
Josh Williams
Civil Lawyer
I take pride in spending the time, energy, and resources necessary to advocate for my clients because I understand that your case matters. I have never been able to stand down and allow someone to suffer harm. I have to go in and help. This is my way, and it is the main reason why I do this work.
I began my legal career as a litigation associate at one of the largest law firms in Minnesota, and in 2009 I started this firm to help people who were harmed by others.
I am grateful to have tried and won significant jury trials for my clients, obtained substantial settlements; and prevailed in groundbreaking cases that set new standards in the law.
Bar Admissions
- Minnesota
- Iowa
- United States District Court, District of Minnesota
Professional Activities/Distinctions
- Karla Wahl Dedicated Advocacy Award from the Minnesota chapter of the National Employment Lawyers Association, 2022
- Named one of Minnesota Lawyer‘s Attorneys of the Year, 2014
- Named a “Rising Star” by Minnesota Super Lawyers, Minneapolis/St. Paul Magazine, and Twin Cities Business, 2014-2018
- Minnesota Association of Black Lawyers
- Minnesota State Bar Association
- Hennepin County Bar Association
- National Employment Lawyers Association, Minnesota Chapter, Vice President
HILLARY PARSONS
Civil Lawyer
Hillary Parsons’ lifelong passion for the law, her exceptional ability to both argue and analyze a wide range of cases and her meticulous attention to detail make her a tenacious and formidable advocate for Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm’s clients. A Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa graduate of George Washington University in Washington, D.C. in 2002, Hillary went on to receive her J.D. Cum Laude from the University of Minnesota Law School in 2005.
After clerking at Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm, P.A. in 2005 and 2006, Hillary attained a prestigious clerkship with Judge Gordon Shumaker at the Minnesota Court of Appeals. After the Court of Appeals, Hillary became an Associate Attorney at Foley & Mansfield in Minneapolis representing insurance companies in products liability litigation, while continuing to provide research and writing assistance to Caplan & Tamburino Law Firm.
Hillary has won jury trial acquittals in cases ranging from minor misdemeanors to serious criminal sexual conduct allegations. She has also had numerous DWIs and felonies dismissed before trial based on arguing legal issues and by conducting independent investigations regarding the charges. In one case, her investigation provided alibi defense spanning several years and the first-degree criminal sexual conduct charges against her client were dismissed. Most recently, her advocacy resulted in the dismissal of first-degree possession charges involving over $4,000,000 worth of drugs due to an unconstitutional seizure, a case which received national attention. She has earned recognition for her skills from the Association of America’s Top Lawyers Top 100 and the National Trial Lawyers Top 100.
Not only is Hillary a fierce advocate in the courtroom, and her clients appreciate her approachability, her compassion, and her willingness to get to know her clients as people rather than cases. She is committed to providing guidance, kindness, and the strongest representation possible.
Shelly L. Larson
Civil Lawyer
Shelly received her Legal Secretary degree from the Minnesota School of Business in 1986, graduating with Honors. She has worked for several law firms during her career including 11 years at Rider & Bennett. She has worked in various areas of the law including employment law, personal injury, medical malpractice, wrongful death, insurance defense, and now currently criminal defense.
In April of 2010, Shelly joined Ryan Garry as a Legal Assistant. An integral part of the office, Shelly speaks with clients, prosecutors, and judicial clerks on a daily basis, answering questions, juggling schedules, and filing court documents. The first friendly face you see when you enter the office, Shelly keeps everything running smoothly from the beginning to the end of the day. Her patience, perseverance, kindness, and empathy with our clients represents the background core of Ryan Garry, Attorney LLC.
MATTHEW J. GILBERT
Civil Lawyer
Matthew J. Gilbert has a vision for Gilbert Alden Barbosa PLLC and that is to combine his knowledge of economics and finance with his legal skills in order to provide clients with exceptional and affordable legal services to small businesses and individuals.
As a Minneapolis and St. Paul business attorney, he has helped small businesses throughout the Twin Cities resolve legal matters before they became costly and has effectively represented them in court. As a family law attorney, he has guided families through the very difficult and emotional process of divorce and other family legal matters. He even protects consumers who have been violated by creditors and other businesses by enabling his clients and our system of justice to hold those responsible for their actions.
Before Matt established Gilbert Alden Barbosa PLLC with attorney Charlie Alden, he owned and operated Gilbert Law PLLC which focused on marital dissolution actions for high net worth clients, including spousal maintenance claims, marital asset divisions, prenuptial agreements, business valuation, post-decree modification claims, and creditor’s rights.
- In 2012 and 2015, 2017, 2018, and 2019 Minnesota Super Lawyers recognized Matt as a “Rising Star,” which is an honor that less than three percent of Minnesota’s young attorneys earn.
- In 2014, the National Trial Lawyers recognized Matt as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer for his exemplary leadership, reputation, influence, stature and profile as civil trial lawyer.
- In 2014, CorporateLiveWire recognized Matt as Lawyer of the Year- Family Law.
- In 2015, the American Institute of Family Law Attorney’s identified Matt as one of the 10 Best Family Law Attorney’s in Minnesota based upon client satisfaction.
- Matt is admitted to practice in the State of Minnesota, United States District Court- District of Minnesota, and the United States Court of Appeals- Eighth Circuit.
Benjamin Heimerl
Civil Lawyer
Benjamin J. Heimerl is a founding Partner at Heimerl & Lammers, LLC. Benjamin partnered with Michael B. Lammers to create a law firm with the ability to handle all of their clients’ legal needs while building lasting relationships. The mission of Heimerl & Lammers, LLC is to provide the superior legal representation and service that our clients deserve, during what could be the most difficult and frustrating time in their life.
Since graduating from William Mitchell College of Law, in St. Paul Minnesota, Benjamin has dedicated his time, almost exclusively, to helping injured clients. His time in the Marine Corps taught him the value of being the best at what you do, and that the only way to be the best is through hard work and dedication. He has taken this passion to the courtroom, where he works tirelessly to battle big insurance companies who refuse to live up to their moral and contractual obligations.
Benjamin was born and raised in Minnesota. He attended college at the University of Minnesota where he earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology. When he’s not advocating for his clients, Benjamin can be found spending quality time with his lovely wife and four children, and when time permits enjoying a peaceful round of golf.
For a deeper look into Ben’s role as a workers’ compensation attorney, check out our blog dedicated solely to injured workers.
Areas of Practice
- Workers’ Compensation
Education
- William Mitchell College of Law, St Paul, Minnesota
- J.D.
- University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- B.A., Major: Psychology
Donald Beauclaire
Civil Lawyer
Don’s practice focuses on the successful representation of a wide array of clients in the areas of commercial litigation, real estate, land use, personal injury, civil rights, and business organizations and emerging companies, among others. Don manages all aspects of case management, from initial case evaluation through trial, when necessary, and is the firm’s primary appellate resource.
Don’s philosophy is to undertake a, “bottom line” approach to representation, with the client’s desired result the foremost consideration in formulating a strategy from the outset of the attorney/client relationship. Without such considerations, litigation can often become a lengthy, expensive quagmire.
Don’s unique experience as a Minnesota-licensed private investigator, along with substantial time spent in the insurance and finance sectors, has proven invaluable in representing the diverse clientele seeking representation through Hajek & Beauclaire LLC.
Don is a graduate of the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and William Mitchell College of Law (Cum Laude), and is a member of the American, Minnesota and Hennepin County Bar Associations. He resides in Maple Grove with his wife and daughters.
Conquering Minnesota’s Civil Legal Landscape: Why You Need a Top Civil Lawyer
Minnesota’s spirit thrives on resilience, and navigating civil legal challenges requires the same strength. Here’s why securing a top-notch civil lawyer in Minnesota is crucial for maximizing your chances of success:
1. Masters of Minnesota’s Civil Law Labyrinth:
Civil law intricacies can be daunting. A skilled lawyer is your guide:
- Deep Understanding of Minnesota Law: Their in-depth knowledge of Minnesota’s legal framework (including statutes and court precedents) ensures they effectively handle your case, whether it’s a contract dispute, property issue, or more.
2. Tackling Complex Legal Issues in Minnesota:
Civil cases can get complicated:
- Strategic Navigation of Legal Challenges: A skilled lawyer can analyze your case thoroughly, identifying potential challenges and developing a strong legal strategy to address them. They understand the nuances of civil law and know how to navigate the legal system effectively for your best outcome.
3. Your Fierce Advocate in Minnesota’s Legal Arena:
Your rights matter:
- Protecting Your Rights and Interests: A skilled civil lawyer will work diligently to protect your rights and interests throughout the legal process in Minnesota. They will advocate on your behalf, ensuring you are treated fairly and that your voice is heard in court.
4. Negotiating for Success in Minnesota:
Reaching settlements saves time and money:
- Skilled Negotiation: Many civil cases are resolved through negotiations rather than going to trial. The best civil lawyers are adept negotiators, helping you reach favorable settlements and avoid costly and protracted court battles in Minnesota.
5. Courtroom Confidence in Minnesota:
Trial-ready and by your side:
- Strong Trial Representation: If your case does go to trial, having a top-notch civil lawyer is crucial. They will represent you confidently in court, presenting compelling arguments, cross-examining witnesses, and building a strong case for your side.
6. Clear Assessment of Your Minnesota Case:
Knowledge empowers informed decisions:
- Objective Case Evaluation: A skilled civil lawyer can provide an objective assessment of your case’s strengths and weaknesses. They will advise you on the best course of action and the potential risks involved, helping you make informed decisions about your Minnesota civil case.
7. A Team Approach to Your Minnesota Legal Challenge:
Strength comes in numbers:
- Access to Valuable Resources: The best civil lawyers often work with experienced teams, including paralegals, researchers, and investigators. They have access to resources that can significantly benefit your case, giving you a well-rounded legal team in Minnesota.
8. Precedent and Legal Knowledge for Your Minnesota Case:
History informs the future:
- Leveraging Legal Precedent: Experienced civil lawyers are well-versed in legal precedents and past case rulings in Minnesota, which can be critical in building persuasive arguments and strengthening your position.
9. Focus on What Matters Most During Your Minnesota Legal Challenge:
Peace of mind amidst challenges:
- Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Hiring a reputable civil lawyer allows you to focus on your daily life and responsibilities while knowing that a capable professional is handling your legal matters in Minnesota. This can significantly reduce stress and anxiety during a challenging time.
10. Increased Chances of Success in Your Minnesota Civil Matter:
Experience is key:
- Maximizing Potential for Success: When faced with a civil dispute, having the best civil lawyer increases your chances of achieving a favorable outcome in court or through settlement in Minnesota.
Finding the Right Fit:
Remember, the “best” civil lawyer for you may vary depending on your specific case and needs. Look for a lawyer specializing in the relevant area of civil law with a successful track record in handling cases similar to yours. Recommendations, online reviews, and initial consultations can be helpful in finding the perfect match for your Minnesota civil legal challenge.