Kent F. Spellman
Advocate
"I've talked to every jury I've tried a case with, if I could, to get their perspective afterward. I always tell my clients to thank me at the end if they're happy with the result."
As a young man, Kent read stories of Abraham Lincoln's trial work and was inspired to go to law school. It didn't happen right way. He worked for a railroad after high school, which led to his interest in a second legal icon, Darrell Paster, known as the "attorney for the damned."
"He started as a trial lawyer for railroad companies and is known for taking on dozens of cases for not the most popular people," Kent explains. "I enjoy advocating for people in court. With my work, someone is already in trouble and I'm trying to figure out what we can do to get them out of trouble or lessen the difficulties."
Between civil litigation for personal injury, construction and employment disputes and other business litigation, Kent also practices in criminal litigation for Melchert Hubert Sjodin. He is certified as a Civil Trial Specialist by the National Board of Trial Advocacy for his tenure as lead counsel in civil trials.
"I'm not afraid to try cases. I enjoy assessing the strengths and weaknesses of a case and letting clients know what they’re up against," Kent says.
Through a long career in the military and federal government, Kent's father taught him that good work means "showing up, getting things done and doing them right," he says. "I have a strong work ethic."
Practice Experience
Civil litigation, construction law, business disputes, personal injury law, workers' compensation, criminal law
Education
B.A., University of Minnesota; J.D., University of San Francisco School of Law
Career Notes
- Certified Civil Trial Specialist by Minnesota State Bar Association and National Board of Trial Advocacy
- Member of California Bar Association, Minnesota Bar Association, Hennepin County Bar Association, Eighth District Bar Association
- Former Civil Litigator in insurance defense and structuring limited partnerships in California Bay Area
- Civil and Criminal Litigator in Twin Cities courts and southern region.
Personal Notes
- Rugby and soccer coach
- Volunteer for a northeast suburban Humane Society
- Runner and race volunteer
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