Debra J. Hilstrom Attorney At Law, PLLC

Debra J. Hilstrom Attorney At Law, PLLC Criminal Defense, Divorce, Child Custody, Paternity, Civil Action, Order for Protection, Wills & More

As an assistant county attorney for Anoka County, Debra protected the elderly, battered women, and other crime victims from abuse, fraud and other wrongdoing. Brooklyn Center City Council Member, 1995 - 2000
Brooklyn Center Planning Commission Member, 1992 - 1993
Legislative aide in the Minnesota Senate, 1996 - 2000
Brooklyn Center Domestic Abuse Intervention Program, Advocate
Volunteer, Volunteer

Lawyers Network
University of Minnesota, B.A. in Sociology, 1990
William Mitchell College of Law, J.D., 2010

Legislative Service
Debra was first elected to the Minnesota House of Representatives in 2000, and has been re-elected every two years since then. She is currently the DFL-Lead for the Public Safety and Crime Prevention Policy and Finance Committee for the 2015-16 legislative sessions and also serves on the Civil Law and Data Practices and Ways and Means committees. During her time at the legislature, Debra has also served on various committees including K-12 Finance, Taxes, Commerce, and Rules. State Representative, 2000 - present
Chair, House Judiciary Committee, 2013-14
Deputy Minority Leader, House DFL Caucus, 2010 - present
Chair, House Public Safety Committee, 2008 - 2010
Chair, House Local Government & Metropolitan Affairs Committee, 2006 - 2008
Assistant Leader, House DFL Caucus, 2002 - 2004
Assistant Anoka County Attorney, 2010-2017
William Mitchell College of Law, Adjunct Professor

Legislative insight meets courtroom strategy. Curious how new Minnesota laws can impact your case? Most attorneys interp...
02/12/2026

Legislative insight meets courtroom strategy.

Curious how new Minnesota laws can impact your case? Most attorneys interpret the law. I’ve helped write it, enforce it, and defend clients under it.

If you want legal guidance informed by real legislative experience, let’s connect.

Silence does not equal guilt. Many believe staying quiet means you have something to hide. In Minnesota, you have the ri...
02/09/2026

Silence does not equal guilt. Many believe staying quiet means you have something to hide. In Minnesota, you have the right to remain silent. This protects you and your case. Unsure what to say or do? Reach out—get guidance before you speak.

Is this legal myth holding you back?Many Minnesotans believe that if you’re charged with a crime, a conviction is automa...
01/08/2026

Is this legal myth holding you back?

Many Minnesotans believe that if you’re charged with a crime, a conviction is automatic. That’s simply not true. Every case is unique. You have rights, and there are defenses available.

If you have questions about your options or want to understand the facts, reach out today. Your future deserves an informed answer.

Learn more at https://www.debrahilstromlaw.com

What makes Minnesota’s laws so complex? I’ve spent years both writing and enforcing our state’s laws. That experience gi...
01/06/2026

What makes Minnesota’s laws so complex?

I’ve spent years both writing and enforcing our state’s laws. That experience gives me a unique perspective when helping clients navigate difficult legal challenges, from family disputes to criminal charges.

Understanding the intent behind a law can make all the difference in your case. If you have questions about how Minnesota law applies to your situation, contact my office to discuss your options.

Learn more about my background and services at https://www.debrahilstromlaw.com

A Minnesota family found hope again. When facing a complicated custody dispute, uncertainty can feel overwhelming. Recen...
01/06/2026

A Minnesota family found hope again.

When facing a complicated custody dispute, uncertainty can feel overwhelming. Recently, I worked with a parent who feared losing precious time with their child. Together, we navigated the legal process and secured a positive outcome that put the child's needs first.

If you’re facing a difficult legal challenge, know that experienced help is available. Contact my office to discuss your options in confidence.

Learn more: https://www.debrahilstromlaw.com

What is Legal Custody?Legal custody is the right to make important decisions for your child. If you have legal custody, ...
01/03/2026

What is Legal Custody?

Legal custody is the right to make important decisions for your child. If you have legal custody, you decide:

✓ Education - Which school, educational programs, and special education services
✓ Healthcare - Selecting doctors and approving medical treatments
✓ Religious upbringing - Religious education and participation in religious activities

Legal custody can be awarded solely to one parent or jointly to both parents. The court considers what's in the best interest of the child.

What is Physical Custody?Physical custody is the right to make day-to-day decisions about your child's care and where th...
01/02/2026

What is Physical Custody?

Physical custody is the right to make day-to-day decisions about your child's care and where they live. This includes:

✓ Where the child lives - Primary residence and living arrangements
✓ Daily routine decisions - Scheduling activities, meals, and bedtime
✓ Everyday activities - Managing school attendance, extracurricular activities, and social events

Like legal custody, physical custody can be sole or joint. The court awards it based on the best interests of the child and what arrangement works best for your family.

Understanding Child Custody in Minnesota: Legal vs. PhysicalMany parents don't realize there are two distinct types of c...
01/02/2026

Understanding Child Custody in Minnesota: Legal vs. Physical

Many parents don't realize there are two distinct types of custody under Minnesota law. Here's what you need to know:

LEGAL CUSTODY = Decision-Making Authority
This is the right to make important decisions for your child, including education, healthcare, and religious upbringing.

PHYSICAL CUSTODY = Day-to-Day Care
This is the right to make routine decisions about where your child lives and their everyday activities—meals, bedtime, school attendance, and extracurricular activities.

Both types can be awarded solely to one parent or jointly to both parents, depending on what serves the best interests of the child.

If you're navigating a custody matter, understanding these distinctions is crucial. Let's talk about your situation.

Think you know Minnesota family law facts?Many believe divorce always means a long, expensive court battle. In reality, ...
01/01/2026

Think you know Minnesota family law facts?

Many believe divorce always means a long, expensive court battle. In reality, most cases can be resolved through negotiation or mediation with the right legal guidance. My years of experience has help cut through confusion and focus on solutions.

Have a question or want to clear up another legal myth? Reach out today for answers tailored to your situation.

Learn more: https://www.debrahilstromlaw.com

How does experience shape your case?Most attorneys know the law. Few have helped write it. My years in the Minnesota Hou...
12/31/2025

How does experience shape your case?

Most attorneys know the law. Few have helped write it. My years in the Minnesota House and as a prosecutor mean I understand not just what the law says, but why it was written that way—and how to use that knowledge to your advantage.

If you’re facing a legal challenge, let’s talk about how a strategic approach can make the difference.

Learn more: https://www.debrahilstromlaw.com

Are these legal myths holding you back?Many Minnesotans believe that only a guilty person needs a lawyer, or that custod...
12/31/2025

Are these legal myths holding you back?

Many Minnesotans believe that only a guilty person needs a lawyer, or that custody always goes to one parent. The truth is, legal situations are complex—and misinformation can make things harder when you need help most.

With 25 years of elected office and 15 years practicing law in Minnesota, I’ve seen how the right guidance changes outcomes. If you have questions about family law, criminal defense, or your professional license, reach out for clarity and support.

Don’t let myths decide your future. Contact my office to get answers you can trust.

Address

525 Park Street Suite 320
Saint Paul, MN

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