About

Jim Kuettner

Mankato criminal defense attorney James Kuettner attended William Mitchell College of Law (now Mitchell | Hamline) focusing on courses that teach practical skills of an attorney, including trial skills, negotiation, and mediation. While in law school, he tried three mock jury trials, numerous mock bench trials, and a juvenile certification trial.

Jim received the Kirwin Award for Legal Professionalism in his first year. This award is given once a year to the student who most exemplifies what it means to be an attorney. Upon graduation, Jim received the prestigious Student of Merit award. This award is given once per graduating class to a student deserving of such recognition.

Jim Kuettner

Prior to starting his own law firm, Kuettner Legal, in Mankato, MN, Jim worked as a law clerk, for Judge Moore, in Nobles County. He is highly skilled in the practice of legal research and writing. Attorney James Kuettner has extensive experience and understanding of the complexities of the law and will apply that knowledge to help you achieve the best possible outcome in your case. He will explain all available options, allowing his clients to take responsibility for the direction of their case.

Attorney James Kuettner has successfully defended against unlawful search and seizure, and has prevented the state from using unlawfully obtained evidence. He is comfortable and confident in the courtroom, and able to effectively argue on your behalf.

Jim also served on numerous boards and councils, including the Minnesota State Bar Association Alternative Dispute Resolution board, the student chapter of the Minnesota Justice Foundation, and a Public Interest Law Fellowship co-chair.

Prior to law school, Jim was a wine buyer and restaurant manager. There, he learned a sense of justice which fueled his passion for the law. He is a natural public speaker and enjoys the company of people. In his spare time, Jim still enjoys good books, good food and wine, and the outdoors.

James Joseph Kuettner has earned recognition for community leadership by Lawyer Legion
James Joseph Kuettner has earned recognition for professional involvement by Lawyer Legion

Calvin Johnson (May 18, 1955 - January 20, 2021)

Criminal Defense Attorney Calvin P. Johnson, from Mankato, had a passion for practicing law. He tried and won numerous criminal cases. He was a leader in his field. A strong advocate of our constitutional and fundamental rights, he implemented change in the law where it was needed, particularly in the areas of Medical Freedom and legalization of marijuana. A strong proponent of natural health, he helped to implement the Comprehensive and Complimentary Health Access Law, passed by Governor Jesse Ventura in 2000. Calvin Johnson negotiated successful case resolutions from a position of power, with the ability and knowledge to challenge complex legal issues, using logic, reasoning, as well as compassion, excitement and dedication to bringing his clients justice

Calvin Johnson

under the law. He was a strong advocate for freedom and equality. Calvin specialized in criminal defense. He worked extensively with the judges and prosecutors throughout southern Minnesota. His relationships enabled open communication and forthrightness in his negotiations. He believed in our system of justice, the Bill of Rights and our State and Federal Constitution. We are forever grateful for his work.

Cora Hamann

Cora plays an essential role in consistently providing our clients with the invaluable service of reliable, effective, and trusted legal representation in criminal matters. Cora is calm, compassionate, and highly proficient. As a Legal Assistant/Office Manager, she is most specialized in DWI and driver’s license matters. Cora is certified in Standardized Field Sobriety Testing, and can pinpoint errors in police procedure. She effectively manages the intricacies of each case, helping our clients to feel informed and secure throughout the legal process.


With over 15 years experience assisting in the field of criminal defense, Cora is well acquainted with the intricacies of the criminal justice system, especially as it

Cora Hamann

relates to DWI / DUI, driver’s license revocations/cancellations and reinstatement, MN’s State Ignition Interlock Device Program, and other driver’s license matters. Oftentimes, the loss of a driver’s license can cause a great deal of hardship for a person. Cora can help minimize the impact by being available to answer your questions regarding driver’s license law and help work towards driver’s license reinstatement, including navigating the complex rules and regulations of the State’s Ignition Interlock Program. Locally born and raised, Cora has a deep sense of community, empathy, and genuine desire to help people.

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