Profile
About Betts Legal Services
Betts Legal Services is a trusted criminal defense firm located in the historic Cathedral Hill district of Saint Paul, Minnesota. Founded in 1996 by Attorney Shawn Betts, the firm has spent nearly three decades defending the rights of individuals accused of crimes in Ramsey County and throughout the Twin Cities. Shawn Betts brings a wealth of experience to every case, having worked as both a defense attorney and a prosecutor. This dual perspective allows him to anticipate the prosecution’s strategies and build stronger defenses for his clients. If you have been charged with a crime and need to find a lawyer who will treat you like family rather than just a case number, Betts Legal Services is the advocate you need.
Criminal Defense Expertise
The firm focuses exclusively on criminal defense, providing specialized representation for a wide range of offenses. Practice areas include:
- DUI/DWI Defense: Aggressive defense against drunk driving charges, challenging the validity of stops, field sobriety tests, and chemical testing.
- Drug Crimes: Representing clients facing charges related to possession, distribution, or manufacturing of controlled substances.
- Theft and Property Crimes: Handling cases involving shoplifting, burglary, and financial fraud.
- Assault and Domestic Violence: defending individuals against allegations of physical harm, ensuring their side of the story is heard.
- Traffic Violations: Assisting drivers in keeping their records clean and maintaining their driving privileges.
Experience You Can Rely On
With over 25 years of practice, Shawn Betts has established deep roots in the Minnesota legal community. He has served as the Administrator of the Washington County Criminal Defense Panel and is a founding member of the Dakota County Defense Panel. These roles demonstrate his leadership and the respect he commands among his peers. When you hire an attorney for a criminal matter, experience counts. Shawn Betts understands the high stakes involved-potential jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record-and works tirelessly to minimize these consequences. The firm offers free initial consultations, providing an opportunity to discuss your case and understand your legal options without financial obligation.
Historic Office Location
Betts Legal Services is housed in the Dacotah Building, a beautifully restored historic structure in St. Paul’s Cathedral Hill neighborhood. This location offers a discreet and professional environment for client meetings, away from the bustle of the downtown courthouses but close enough for quick access to legal proceedings.
Specializing In
Criminal Defense, DWI Defense, Drug Crimes, Assault, Expungements
Address & Location
Located in the historic Cathedral Hill neighborhood of Saint Paul.
Building Location
This historic three-story commercial brick structure is the Dacotah Building, which is situated just steps away from Boyd Park and directly above the famous W.A. Frost & Company restaurant.
Suite Access
Enter through the main entrance at 370 Selby Avenue. Please note that there is no elevator in this building. Head up the stairs to the second floor, and the office will be located at Suite 207.
Parking Details
For visitors, surface parking is available in the east lot on Selby Avenue. Although signs state the lot is for W.A. Frost only, customers of all building businesses are permitted to park there. Additional public surface parking is available at nearby lots.
Public Transit
Served by Metro Transit Route 65 (Eastbound / Westbound); nearest stop is at Farrington St.
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