About Alec

Alec Duffy studied political science and legal studies at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire before earning his J.D. from Mitchell Hamline School of Law in 2019. He moved through law school roles that exposed him to courtroom practice and client advocacy. Those early experiences shaped his approach to casework and courtroom preparation.

After law school he spent time working in prosecutorial settings. In 2020 he served as a Certified Student Lawyer at the Washington County Prosecutor’s Office. That position placed him in the middle of charging decisions and trial preparation. It also gave him a firsthand view of how prosecutors build cases.

In 2021 he joined North Star Criminal Defense as an associate. There he stepped into defense practice, taking on client interviews, motions practice, and trial support. The transition from a prosecutor’s office to a defense firm offered a different perspective on litigation strategy. He handled matters across criminal calendar dockets and learned the mechanics of plea negotiations and courtroom advocacy.

In 2023 he launched his own practice, Duffy Defense PLLC. He founded the firm to provide direct representation in criminal matters and related proceedings. Running a small firm required taking on both casework and the business tasks that keep a practice running. He continues to handle client intake, case strategy, filings, and courtroom appearances.

Duffy is licensed to practice in Minnesota. His practical background spans time on both sides of the aisle in criminal court. That experience informs how he evaluates evidence, prepares witnesses, and engages opposing counsel. He handles pretrial motions, contested hearings, and jury trials, and he places emphasis on clear communication with clients about options and likely outcomes.

Colleagues and clients have encountered him in arraignment dockets, pretrial conferences, and trial calendars. He has worked on misdemeanor and felony matters and on procedural issues that arise in criminal litigation. Outside of litigation, he manages the administrative and ethical duties that running a small firm requires.

He maintains professional memberships and stays active in local legal circles. He balances courtroom work with the practical demands of practice management. He practices criminal defense and related matters at Duffy Defense PLLC.

Education

Mitchell Hamline School of Law

J.D. | Law

2019

University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire

B.A. | Political Science and Legal Studies

Languages

English (Spoken, Written)

Experience

Lawyer/Founder

Duffy Defense PLLC
2023

Associate Lawyer

North Star Criminal Defense
2021

Certified Student Lawyer

Washington County Prosecuting Lawyer
2020

Accepted Jurisdictions

Minnesota

Office Locations

Main Office

 370 Selby Avenue St. Paul MN 55102