Attorney Profile
Minneapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer Christopher Keyser
Christopher Keyser is an award-winning criminal defense lawyer representing individuals criminally charged in Minnesota state and federal courts. He consistently obtains dismissals, acquittals, and reduced charges in cases ranging from homicide, assault, criminal sexual contact, robbery, burglary, theft, and DWIs.
Known for his level of temperament, candor, and professionalism, Mr. Keyser has earned the respect of prosecutors, judges, and clients throughout Minnesota. Before starting his private practice, Mr. Keyser clerked for several federal government agencies. He currently serves as a Lieutenant Colonel (O-5) and military lawyer (JAG) in the U.S. Army Reserve.
Mr. Keyser offers complimentary consultations to discuss strategy, potential case outcomes, and likely scenarios. He gives honest advice, offers practical solutions, and brings a unique blend of criminal, immigration, and military experience to his clients. With a consistent record of success, Mr. Keyser’s clients take comfort in knowing they have a skilled, personable, and zealous advocate fighting for their best interests.
More information about Mr. Keyser can be found below. Call our office at (612) 338-5007 for a free case evaluation.
Delivering Experience and a Reputation for Excellence
When your freedom, career, and reputation are on the line in Minnesota state or federal courts, your defense requires more than standard legal representation. Christopher Keyser is an award-winning trial lawyer and a Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist—a distinction held by fewer than 3% of all registered attorneys in the state.
As the founder of Keyser Law, P.A., Mr. Keyser combines over a decade of civilian courtroom victories with a distinguished military background as a Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) and Judge Advocate General (JAG) in the U.S. Army Reserve. Known across Minneapolis–St. Paul area for his candor, preparation, and aggressive advocacy, he provides the elite, strategic defense necessary to counter high-stakes government prosecutions
Mr. Keyser has earned the respect of prosecutors and judges throughout Minnesota for his preparedness, professionalism, and dedication to his clients. Before starting his own practice, Mr. Keyser clerked for the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, where he investigated, prosecuted, and litigated matters on behalf of the U.S. Government.
Awards and Recognition
Mr. Keyser is a Criminal Law Specialist certified by the Minnesota Bar Association. Less than 3% of all registered attorneys in Minnesota are certified specialists in their field. Mr. Keyser brings his unique blend of criminal, immigration, and military experience to his Minnesota state and federal criminal cases. His continued success and excellent results have garnered recognition within the legal community. Mr. Keyser is selected to the Minnesota Super Lawyers Rising Stars list (2014–2023). No more than 2.5% of lawyers in Minnesota are selected by Super Lawyers to receive this honor annually. He is also listed in the Top 100 Trial Lawyers list by the National Trial Lawyers Association.
Client Testimonials
Mr. Keyser’s priority is exceptionally serving his clients, who represent his service quality. Mr. Keyser has earned the Client’s Choice award from Avvo.com every year since 2010. Actual client testimonials showcasing real case results can be viewed here.
In the Media
Mr. Keyser and his cases are frequently showcased in the media. Outlets where Keyser Law, P.A., or our cases have appeared include:
Defending Our Military Service Members
As a military officer, Lieutenant Colonel (LTC/O-5), and Judge Advocate (JAG) in the U.S. Army Reserve, Mr. Keyser fiercely defends our military service members. He completed the Officer Basic and Advanced Courses at the Judge Advocate General’s Legal Center and School in Virginia. He completed the Direct Commission Course (boot camp) at Fort Benning, Georgia, in 2011. Mr. Keyser currently serves as Team Chief with the 7th Legal Operations Detachment in New York. His previous assignments include 77th Sustainment Brigade at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (Brigade Judge Advocate), 88th Readiness Division (Civil and Administrative Law) the 16th Legal Operations Detachment (Trial Defense Counsel), the 372nd Engineer Brigade (Trial Counsel), and the 214th Legal Operations Detachment (Legal Assistance). Mr. Keyser provides reduced-rate representation to veterans and service members to show his appreciation for our military.
The Minnesota Criminal Lawyer Advantage
The consequences of a charge or conviction can be life-altering. Being charged with a crime is frightening, whether a DWI, assault, burglary, or other criminal offense. The Government’s resources are enormous, and fighting a case may seem impossible. A charge alone has devastating effects on reputation and emotional stability. Convictions carry a criminal record, loss of employment or housing, jail, and the stigma of being labeled an offender.
Do not face the Government alone. Navigating our criminal justice system can be frightening, confusing, and emotionally stressful. Engaging an experienced advocate is necessary when liberty, reputation, and livelihood are at risk. A fierce advocate always puts your interests first. A trusted lawyer explains the law and guides you to the best possible outcome, regardless of charge or severity level.
FAQs About Hiring Christopher Keyser
Is Christopher Keyser a Minnesota criminal defense lawyer?
Yes. Christopher Keyser is a Minnesota criminal defense lawyer who represents clients charged in state and federal courts. His practice includes DWI/DUI, assault, domestic assault, theft, burglary, robbery, criminal sexual conduct, homicide, federal crimes, and other serious criminal matters. If you are facing a criminal charge in Minnesota, he can review the allegations, explain the process, and help you understand your defense options.
Is Christopher Keyser a certified Criminal Law Specialist?
Yes. Christopher Keyser is certified as a Criminal Law Specialist by the Minnesota State Bar Association. This certification reflects a focused commitment to criminal defense and helps distinguish him from attorneys who handle criminal cases only occasionally. For someone facing a serious charge, that focused experience can matter when strategy, negotiation, trial preparation, and long-term consequences are all at stake.
What types of criminal cases does Christopher Keyser handle?
Christopher Keyser handles a wide range of Minnesota criminal defense matters, including DWI/DUI, assault, domestic assault, drug offenses, theft, burglary, robbery, criminal sexual conduct, homicide, federal crimes, probation violations, expungement, and cases involving military service members. His role is to evaluate the facts, challenge weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, protect the client’s rights, and pursue the strongest available outcome.
Does Christopher Keyser handle DWI and DUI cases?
Yes. Christopher Keyser represents clients facing DWI and DUI charges in Minnesota. These cases can involve criminal penalties, driver’s license consequences, employment concerns, insurance issues, ignition interlock questions, and the risk of a lasting criminal record. A DWI defense attorney can review the stop, the testing process, the evidence, the prior record, and available defenses before advising on strategy.
Does Christopher Keyser represent military service members and veterans?
Yes. Christopher Keyser represents military service members and veterans facing criminal charges. His background as a Lieutenant Colonel and Judge Advocate in the U.S. Army Reserve gives him additional insight into how a criminal allegation may affect military careers, security clearances, discipline, reputation, and future opportunities. His profile also notes that he provides reduced-rate representation to veterans and service members.
Why hire Christopher Keyser for a Minnesota criminal defense case?
People hire Christopher Keyser because a criminal charge can affect freedom, employment, housing, reputation, family life, immigration status, military service, and the future. His profile emphasizes his criminal defense focus, Criminal Law Specialist certification, federal court experience, military JAG background, and experience representing clients in serious Minnesota criminal cases. A consultation with Keyser Law, P.A. allows you to discuss the facts, possible outcomes, and the next steps for protecting yourself.
Secure Your Strategic Legal Defense Today
When you retain Keyser Law, P.A., you are not just hiring a lawyer—you are securing a relentless advocate dedicated to protecting your future. Christopher Keyser’s rare combination of state board certification, federal court experience, and military JAG leadership ensures your defense is built on unmatched precision and authority. Don’t face the complexities of the Minnesota legal system alone.
How to Take Control of Your Case:
- Step 1: Request a Free Case Review online or call our main office at (612) 338-5007 to discuss your situation.
- Step 2: Consult directly with Board-Certified Criminal Law Specialist Christopher Keyser.
- Step 3: Establish a proactive, aggressive legal strategy designed to safeguard your freedom and reputation.
Download (PDF, 1.56MB)
Awards
| Award |
Grantor |
Date Granted |
| Rising Stars |
Super Lawyers |
2019-2024 |
| Top 100 Trial Lawyers |
National Trial Lawyers Association |
2014-2024 |
| Top 40 Under 40 |
National Trial Lawyers Association |
2014-2024 |
| Public Service Award |
William Mitchell College of Law |
2008 |
| Outstanding Service Award |
U.S. Department of Homeland Security |
2007 |
Work Experience
| Position |
Company |
Duration |
| Criminal Defense Attorney |
Keyser Law, P.A. |
2008 – Present |
| Judge Advocate/Major |
Judge Advocate General’s Corps, U.S. Army Reserve |
2010 – Present |
| Clerk |
U.S. Department of Justice |
2008 |
| Clerk |
U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) |
2007 – 2008 |
| Clerk |
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (USCIS) |
2007 |
Associations
| Association |
Position |
Duration |
| Academy of Certified Trial Lawyers of Minnesota |
Member |
2018 – Present |
| National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers |
Member |
2014 – Present |
| Minnesota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers |
Member |
2009 – Present |
| Minnesota State Bar Association |
Member |
2008 – Present |
| Hennepin County Bar Association |
Member |
2008 – Present |
| Washington County Bar Association |
Member |
2009 – Present |
Publications
Education
| School |
Major |
Degree |
Graduated |
| William Mitchell College of Law |
Law |
JD – Juris Doctor |
2008 |
| University of Minnesota |
English |
BA – Bachelor of Arts |
2005 |
Speaking Engagements