Joseph Trollman
Relentless Defense in the Face of Adversity
"When the full weight of the justice system is against you, you don't just need a lawyer. You need a shield, a strategist, and a warrior."
My entire career has been defined by one core belief: every individual, regardless of the accusations against them, is entitled to a robust, uncompromising defense. I began my journey in criminal law not from the sidelines, but directly in the trenches, witnessing how quickly the scales of justice can tilt against those who are unprepared or underrepresented. This reality drives my relentless approach to litigation today.
Career
After earning my Juris Doctor from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law on April 15, 2000, I built my prosecutorial experience through roles in Chicago and Minnesota. My career has included a broad range of prosecutions, federal public-service work, and leadership in matters involving fraud against government programs.
Prosecutorial Experience
From 2009 to 2014, I served as a prosecutor in Chicago, working on a wide variety of cases. This period of my career involved the preparation and prosecution of cases across different subject areas and strengthened my practical understanding of courtroom advocacy.
Chicago prosecution Case preparationU.S. Attorney’s Office
In 2014, I joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota, continuing my work in public service at the federal level. My responsibilities included prosecutions involving fraud against state and federal government programs.
Federal prosecution Government-program fraudFraud & Public Corruption
I later served as chief of the Fraud & Public Corruption section in the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The section prosecuted fraud involving state and federal government programs, bringing public accountability and the integrity of public funds into focus.
I was the lead prosecutor in the Feeding Our Future case and led prosecutions connected with other prominent Minnesota fraud cases.
Fraud investigations Public corruption Public-program integrityThe experience outlined above spans local prosecution, federal public service, and leadership in complex fraud and public-corruption matters.
Why I Do This Work
A criminal charge can dismantle a person's reputation, career, and liberty in an instant. I do this work because I thrive in the crucible of the courtroom, standing between my clients and the immense power of the state. It is profoundly rewarding to take a case that seems unwinnable, meticulously tear apart the prosecution's evidence, and secure an acquittal or a highly favorable plea reduction.
I am recognized as a "Top 40 Under 40" trial attorney, not just for my courtroom victories, but for my aggressive pre-trial motion practice, which frequently results in cases being dismissed before they even reach a jury.
Beyond the Law
When I am not preparing for trial, I am dedicated to criminal justice reform. I frequently speak at law schools regarding Fourth Amendment rights and police accountability. In my personal time, I am a competitive marathon runner—a discipline that perfectly mirrors the endurance, focus, and stamina required for complex, drawn-out legal battles.
My Promise to You
If you hire me, you are getting an attorney who will leave no stone unturned. I will scrutinize every piece of evidence, challenge every procedural misstep, and fiercely advocate for your freedom. You will have direct, transparent communication throughout your case, and a legal strategy designed for absolute maximum impact.
Education
My academic path combines undergraduate study at Gustavus Adolphus College with formal legal training at the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. This education provided the foundation for my subsequent work in prosecution and complex legal matters.
Gustavus Adolphus College
I attended Gustavus Adolphus College before continuing to professional legal education.
University of Pittsburgh School of Law
Juris Doctor (J.D.)
I earned my Juris Doctor degree from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law, graduating on April 15, 2000.
My legal education prepared me for a career built around courtroom work, public prosecution, and matters involving government-program fraud.
Professional Focus
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White Collar Defense
Corporate Fraud & Embezzlement
Aggressively defending executives and corporations against federal investigations, SEC enforcement actions, and grand jury indictments.
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Felony Litigation
High-Stakes Criminal Trials
Securing acquittals and dismissals in serious felony cases by relentlessly challenging forensic evidence and police testimony.
Awards & Recognition
- • National Trial Lawyers: Top 40 Under 40
- • Super Lawyers Rising Star
- • Avvo 10.0 Superb Rating