Wendy J. Mellum, Criminal Defense Attorney in Minneapolis, Minnesota

Wendy concentrates on criminal defense and family law. Each area below outlines the kind of case Wendy handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Family Law

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Wendy's primary office is at 80 S. 8th St., Ste. 1700, Minneapolis, MN, 55402-2110. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Wendy usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Wendy discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Wendy for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Wendy walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Wendy offer a free consultation?

  Wendy charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Wendy's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Wendy's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in Minnesota typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Wendy gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Wendy take my case if I'm outside Minneapolis?

  Wendy is licensed in Minnesota. Matters governed by Minnesota law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Wendy will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Wendy?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Wendy will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Wendy accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Wendy's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.