Joseph Beck

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Professional Experience

I joined Harris Velázquez Gibbens as an associate in 2013. In 2021, I was fortunate enough to become a partner of the firm, which is a place I’ve been proud to be a part of since the day I started.

Prior to my time here, I gained a great amount of practical experience and knowledge in the area of criminal law by working in the District Attorney’s Offices in Washington County and Lincoln County as a Deputy District Attorney. In fact, criminal law is and has been my focus for my entire professional career, and I take great pride in specializing in one particular area of law.

As a former prosecutor, I feel that I have a unique perspective that is advantageous to clients, as I know that there is more than one way to resolve a case. I explore all of these options for my clients, and I present them with those options, ultimately helping them gather all the information to allow them to make the best possible decisions in their case.

In those cases where my client would prefer to avoid a trial, I will point out several alternatives that may be available to them. Perhaps they are eligible for a deferred sentence, or civil compromise. Or perhaps the offer extended to them can be improved with more information or investigation on the part of the defense. Whatever the case may be, I negotiate and finalize resolutions on their behalf, taking into account their needs, resources and particular situation.

Sometimes, the best option for a client may be to avoid a pre-trial resolution and to take their case to trial. In the event that this is the case, I have a great deal of litigation experience as both a prosecutor and defense attorney, as I have litigated dozens upon dozens of trials. As a defense attorney, I have successfully defended clients in court in front of both judge and jury, and these cases have included low-level misdemeanor cases, DUII’s, and several more serious felony accusations.

Regardless of how a case is resolved, to obtain the best possible outcome for a client, I always take the time necessary to get to know their circumstances, wants, and needs. I carefully review all reports and witness statements, review the law and possible defenses, and work the case hard to establish to the District Attorney prosecuting the case that this case should be a priority to them.

Outside Activities

During my free time, I enjoy running, following my hometown Minnesota sports franchises and spending time with my beautiful wife, family, and friends. This would include my three best friends, my kids.

Education

• Lewis and Clark Law School, J.D.
• University of Saint Thomas, magna cum laude, B.A., 2008