Seamus Mahoney
Criminal defense attorney dedicated to fighting for justice in the Twin Cities and across Minnesota.
Why I Became a Defense Attorney
I didn't grow up dreaming of being a lawyer. Born in New York and raised with a strong sense of justice, I witnessed firsthand how the legal system could be both a protector and a punisher—and how often those without resources bore the brunt of its harshest realities.
A turning point came during my college years at Duke University. A close friend was wrongfully accused of assault. I watched him navigate a system that seemed indifferent to his innocence, where overworked public defenders and aggressive prosecutors made him feel like just another case number. Thankfully, the charges were eventually dismissed—but the experience changed me.
I realized then that our justice system, for all its ideals, can fail people. Not because of malice, but because of indifference, overwork, and the weight of bureaucracy. I decided that day that if I became a lawyer, it would be to stand between people and a system that could crush them.
From Law School to the Courtroom
After graduating from Duke University in 1983, I enrolled at Mitchell Hamline School of Law. Law school was demanding, but it gave me the tools I needed: not just legal knowledge, but the ability to think critically, argue persuasively, and see through the complexities of the law to find justice.
"The first time I stood in a courtroom as an attorney, defending someone's freedom, I felt the weight of responsibility—but also the privilege. This was why I became a lawyer: to be someone's voice when they needed it most."
I graduated in 1993 and immediately began working at a Twin Cities law firm, handling criminal defense and civil litigation. But I wanted more trial experience. In 1996, I joined the Public Defender's Office—a decision that would define my career.
As a public defender, I represented people who couldn't afford an attorney. These weren't easy cases. Many of my clients faced serious charges: assault, drug trafficking, violent crimes. But beneath the charges were real people—people with families, struggles, and stories that the system often ignored. I learned to fight not just for acquittals, but for dignity, fairness, and second chances.
Those five years taught me more than any law book ever could. I tried dozens of cases, won hard-fought battles against seasoned prosecutors, and learned that criminal defense wasn't about defending the indefensible—it was about ensuring the government proved its case beyond a reasonable doubt. It was about protecting constitutional rights. It was about making sure everyone, regardless of income or background, received justice.
Going Solo in 2000
In 2000, I made a decision that terrified and excited me in equal measure: I opened my own law practice. I wanted the freedom to take the cases I believed in, to spend the time each client deserved, and to build relationships based on trust, not billable hours.
Starting a solo practice wasn't easy. There were late nights, financial uncertainty, and moments of doubt. But from the beginning, I made a promise to myself: every client who walked through my door would get my full attention, my best effort, and my honest advice.
Over the years, that promise has never changed. I've represented hundreds of clients—from first-time DUI offenders terrified of losing their licenses, to individuals facing life sentences for serious felonies. I've negotiated plea deals that saved careers, won acquittals that restored reputations, and helped people expunge records so they could move forward with their lives.
I also expanded into personal injury law, representing people injured in accidents through no fault of their own. Watching someone rebuild their life after a devastating injury—and knowing I helped secure the compensation they needed—has been one of the most rewarding parts of my practice.
What Drives Me Today
After more than 30 years of practicing law, I still get up every morning excited to fight for my clients. Why? Because I know what's at stake. A criminal conviction can mean prison time, lost jobs, broken families, and a lifetime of stigma. An injury without proper compensation can mean financial ruin.
I've never forgotten where I came from or why I started. Every client I represent gets the same dedication I would want if I were in their shoes. I don't just see cases—I see people. And people deserve to be heard, to be defended, and to be treated with dignity.
This is personal for me. It always has been. And it always will be.
"Justice isn't just a word to me—it's what I've spent my life fighting for."
— Seamus Mahoney
Education & Experience
Education
Juris Doctor (J.D.)
Mitchell Hamline School of Law
Saint Paul, Minnesota • 1993
Bachelor of Arts
Duke University
Durham, North Carolina • 1983
Bar Admissions
- • Minnesota State Bar
- • U.S. District Court, District of Minnesota
- • Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals
Professional History
Solo Practitioner
2000 - Present
Established private practice focusing on criminal defense and personal injury law. Successfully represented hundreds of clients throughout Minnesota.
Public Defender's Office
1995 - 2000
Gained extensive trial experience representing indigent clients in serious criminal matters. Developed deep understanding of Minnesota criminal procedure.
Associate Attorney
1993 - 1996
Worked with established Twin Cities law firm handling criminal defense and civil litigation matters.
Notable Achievements
First-Degree Assault Acquittal
Successfully defended client facing life sentence in high-profile assault case. Jury returned not guilty verdict after demonstrating self-defense.
Drug Trafficking Charges Dropped
Secured dismissal of major drug trafficking charges after successfully challenging illegal search and seizure. Evidence suppressed due to Fourth Amendment violations.
Personal Injury Settlement
Negotiated substantial settlement for client seriously injured in auto accident. Secured compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Felony DWI to Misdemeanor
Negotiated plea agreement reducing third-offense felony DWI to misdemeanor, saving client from prison time and preserving employment.
Multiple Record Clearances
Successfully petitioned for expungement of criminal records for numerous clients, giving them a fresh start and better employment opportunities.
White Collar Fraud Case
Defended business professional accused of embezzlement. Demonstrated lack of criminal intent and accounting errors, resulting in full acquittal.
Awards & Professional Honors
Over three decades of dedicated service to Minnesota's legal community
Minnesota State Bar Association Member
Active member in good standing since 1993
Ramsey County Bar Association
Criminal Law Section, active participant in continuing legal education
Minnesota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
Long-standing member dedicated to protecting constitutional rights
Pro Bono Service Recognition
Hundreds of hours providing free legal services to those in need
Continuing Legal Education Speaker
Regular presenter on criminal defense strategies and trial advocacy
"Every case deserves full attention and aggressive representation. I've dedicated my career to ensuring that promise to every client who walks through my door."
— Seamus Mahoney
What Drives Seamus
Integrity
Taking pride in honest, ethical representation. Never giving up, leading the way for clients.
Experience
Over 20 years fighting for justice in Minnesota courts with proven results.
Passion for Justice
Driven by a desire to contribute towards a more just and fair legal system.
Client Dedication
Everyone deserves a fair hearing and quality representation, 24/7 availability.
Passion for Justice
Seamus Mahoney is driven by a strong desire to contribute towards a more just and fair legal system. He believes that everyone is entitled to a fair hearing and quality representation.
As a criminal defense attorney, he has taken on hundreds of clients, many of whom have not had all the advantages in life and have been given the best representation available.
What Clients Say
Seamus fought tirelessly for me when I was facing serious felony charges. His knowledge of criminal law and courtroom experience made all the difference. The charges were reduced significantly, and I avoided prison time. I'm forever grateful.
Michael T.
Criminal Defense Client
After my DUI arrest, I was terrified of losing my license and my job. Seamus thoroughly investigated my case, challenged the traffic stop, and got the charges dismissed. His attention to detail saved my career.
Jennifer R.
DUI Defense Client
I was injured in a car accident and overwhelmed by medical bills. Seamus handled everything with the insurance companies and secured a settlement that covered all my expenses and more. He truly cares about his clients.
David L.
Personal Injury Client
My son was facing juvenile charges that could have derailed his future. Seamus worked with the prosecutor to get him into a diversion program instead. Now his record is clean. Thank you, Seamus!
Sarah M.
Juvenile Defense Client
I was wrongfully accused of assault. Seamus believed in me from day one and meticulously prepared my defense. The jury returned a not guilty verdict in less than an hour. He's a brilliant attorney.
Robert K.
Criminal Defense Client
Seamus helped me expunge my old criminal record so I could move forward with my life. His professionalism and dedication to his clients is unmatched. I highly recommend him to anyone facing legal troubles.
Amanda C.
Expungement Client
Articles & Case Highlights
Understanding Your Rights During Police Encounters in Minnesota
A comprehensive guide to constitutional protections during traffic stops, searches, and arrests. Learn what you must do, what you should never do, and how to protect yourself legally.
Read Article→State v. Johnson - First-Degree Assault Acquittal
Successfully defended client facing life sentence on first-degree assault charges. Presented compelling self-defense evidence and witness testimony. Jury deliberated 45 minutes before returning not guilty verdict on all counts.
The Importance of Challenging DUI Evidence
An analysis of common flaws in DUI prosecutions, including breathalyzer calibration issues, improper field sobriety test administration, and violations of arrest procedures.
Read Article→State v. Martinez - Drug Trafficking Dismissal
Secured complete dismissal of major drug trafficking charges after successfully challenging illegal search and seizure. Evidence suppressed due to Fourth Amendment violations. Client faced no charges.
Advanced Criminal Defense Trial Strategies
Presented at the Minnesota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers annual conference. Topics included jury selection, cross-examination techniques, and closing argument strategies.
Personal Injury Settlement - $850,000
Negotiated substantial settlement for client seriously injured in auto accident caused by drunk driver. Secured compensation covering medical bills, lost wages, future medical care, and pain and suffering.
Unwavering Integrity
Seamus takes pride in his work and never gives up on his clients. He leads the way with honest, ethical representation in every case.
From the initial consultation through trial or settlement, Seamus ensures his clients are prepared, informed, and receive full due process and justice in court. His commitment to excellence has earned him the trust of hundreds of clients across Minnesota.