J.P. Plachecki

J.P. Plachecki hails from Winona and is a proud alumnus of Cotter High School, where he achieved recognition as the best actor in 1978. During his time there, he also exhibited his prowess on the football field, serving as the three-year varsity football defensive captain and contributing to Cotter’s remarkable achievement of six consecutive defensive shutouts. Plachecki pursued higher education at St. Mary’s University of Minnesota, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree with honors (cum laude). His academic journey continued at Hamline University Law School, where he excelled and secured a place on the dean’s list. Seeking further expertise, he pursued a Master of Laws degree at Boston University School of Law.

Plachecki’s professional journey led him to serve as a Special Assistant Attorney General for the Massachusetts Department of Revenue. However, in 1994, he felt the pull of his hometown and returned to Winona. He joined the prestigious law firm of Darby, Delano & Price, where he established his legal practice. Specializing in the representation of individuals accused of criminal offenses, Plachecki’s focus spans across the Midwest region.

His career is punctuated by a significant achievement in securing a landmark decision from the Minnesota Supreme Court in the case of State v. Burbach. Notably, Plachecki’s skills were showcased during his argument in this case before the Minnesota Supreme Court. This impressive track record has earned him accolades as a Minnesota Superlawyer for consecutive years, a feat spanning from 2005 to 2023. Additionally, he was recognized by Minnesota Law & Politics in 2007 and 2008, earning a place among the top 40 criminal defense attorneys in the state. His influence was highlighted in “The Winona Boys,” a feature in the April/May 2008 edition of Minnesota Law & Politics.

Plachecki’s legal expertise extends beyond the confines of a courtroom. He has taken on criminal cases throughout the expanse of Minnesota, even collaborating with distinguished legal figure George Parnham on a notable Minnesota case. Parnham, recognized as a frequent legal commentator on CNN and known for representing Andrea Yates, joined forces with Plachecki. Another illustrious partnership in Plachecki’s career was with Douglas Walser Thomson, one of Minnesota’s most renowned criminal defense attorneys, with whom he collaborated for a decade on cases in the Midwest.

Notably, Plachecki’s dedication to legal education led him to serve as an adjunct faculty member at Winona State University. His multifaceted career journey reflects his commitment to justice, legal excellence, and community engagement.