Minneapolis criminal defense lawyer Ian Birrell talks about why he became a defense attorney and what he does outside of the office. He shares that he chooses to become a criminal defense lawyer because of the unique relationship that forms between a criminal lawyer and their clients. During law school and early in his career, he explores several areas of law, handling immigration cases, divorce cases, and complex civil litigation.

Once he begins practicing criminal law, he realizes the profound responsibility and privilege of working with people during the most difficult times of their lives. When a client approaches him saying, “The State of Minnesota versus me” or “The United States of America versus me,” he understands the weight of that moment. He values his clients, trusts them, respects them, and dedicates himself to helping them navigate these dark periods.

Outside the courtroom, he is a tournament-level poker player. The previous summer, he competes in the Tournament of Champions at the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas and enjoys a successful run. While he finds poker exciting, he acknowledges that being a lawyer carries far more meaning—it allows him to make a tangible, positive difference in people’s lives.