Christopher Johnson

Christopher Johnson is an Associate Attorney with Smith, Paulson, O’Donnell & Erickson in Monticello and has more than three decades of experience in the criminal justice system. As a former prosecutor and current criminal defense attorney, he represents clients in criminal defense, criminal and traffic matters, DWI and DUI cases, drug charges, probation violations, traffic violations, and driver’s license issues. His background gives him experience evaluating cases from both the prosecution and defense sides of the courtroom.

Christopher earned his J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law in 1987 and his B.A. from St. Olaf College in 1983. He has been licensed in Minnesota since 1987 and has also been admitted to the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. His legal education and long criminal practice support his understanding of charging decisions, evidence, plea negotiations, motion practice, trial preparation, sentencing, and the administrative consequences that can accompany traffic or driver’s license matters.

Christopher spent many years working as a prosecutor before moving into criminal defense. His prior roles included service as an assistant district attorney and as a city prosecutor, giving him direct experience with how the state reviews evidence and develops criminal cases. Since moving to defense work, he has used that perspective to represent people accused of crimes and traffic offenses. His practice covers both serious and routine criminal matters, with attention to the legal and practical consequences clients may face.

Christopher Johnson brings prosecutorial experience and long-standing criminal defense work to clients facing charges in central Minnesota. He helps clients understand the process, assess the evidence, and consider options that may include negotiation, motions, trial, or sentencing advocacy. His familiarity with both sides of criminal prosecution provides useful context when evaluating how a case may develop. By combining experience with a practical, client-focused approach, Christopher works to protect rights and guide people through criminal and traffic matters with significant personal consequences.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Smith, Paulson, O’Donnell & Erickson, PLC
• Member, Minnesota State Bar Association
• Member, Mock Trial
• Member, Rotary
• Member, Jaycees
• Member, Boy Scouts
• Member, Elk River Youth Basketball Board
• Member, Elk River High School Volleyball Boosters

Licensed State

• Minnesota

Education

• William Mitchell College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD) in St. Paul Minnesota
• St. Olaf College
  Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Northfield Minnesota

Awards & Badges