Navigating Justice: A Q&A with Sean Paul Kehren of North Star Law Group

Sean Paul Kehren's path to law wasn't traditional. Growing up in Pine City, Minnesota, his experiences with the criminal justice system and a deep-seated desire for social change fueled his passion for advocacy. Today, Sean leverages his legal expertise at North Star Law Group, focusing on criminal defense and the exciting world of cannabis law.

We recently had the opportunity to chat with Sean about his journey, his thoughts on Minnesota's cannabis landscape, and the advice he has for aspiring lawyers.

Cannabis in Pine City: From Stigma to Possibility

Sean's early exposure to cannabis was colored by the stigma prevalent in his small Minnesota town. "[There was a] large stigma around it," he recalls. However, witnessing the positive changes brought about by legalization efforts elsewhere, particularly in Colorado, sparked a deeper interest in the plant's potential.

A Family Encounter with the Justice System Shapes Sean's Path

A pivotal moment in Sean's life came when his father faced arrest. This experience exposed him firsthand to the complexities of the criminal justice system, solidifying his resolve to pursue a career in law. Notably, Sean himself encountered legal trouble related to cannabis use during his college years.

"It radicalized me around the criminal justice system," Sean explains. He witnessed how the system disproportionately impacted people of color and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds. This ignited a passion to fight for a more just legal system.

From Political Organizer to Law School Grad: Embracing a Unique Journey

Before diving into law school, Sean honed his advocacy skills working as a political organizer. This experience proved invaluable, connecting him with people from diverse backgrounds and fostering his understanding of the political landscape.

While the LSAT wasn't his favorite hurdle, Sean persevered and landed a spot at Mitchell Hamline School of Law. He thrived in the part-time program, appreciating the diverse perspectives of his non-traditional classmates.

Finding Success at North Star Law Group

Today, Sean is excited to be part of North Star Law Group, where he gets to combine his criminal defense experience with his growing knowledge of cannabis law. He's optimistic about the future of cannabis regulation in Minnesota, acknowledging the challenges but also the vast potential for positive change.

Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Lawyers

For those considering a legal career, Sean offers a valuable message: "There's a lot of room for people with different perspectives in law school." He emphasizes the importance of finding a legal path that aligns with your values and highlights the benefits of part-time programs for those juggling work and studies.

Looking Ahead: A Future Steeped in Justice and Advocacy

Sean's story is a testament to the power of personal experience and a commitment to social justice. His legal career is just beginning, and we're excited to see how he continues to navigate the complexities of the legal system and advocate for positive change, both in criminal defense and the evolving world of cannabis law in Minnesota.