Eder B. Castillo, Hennepin County Attorney’s Office

Eder B. Castillo’s advocacy for the immigrant community isn’t just about the law. For him, it’s about community, and, most importantly, family.

Since joining the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, the University of St. Thomas School of Law graduate and first-generation college graduate, has made a mark for himself not just through his casework, but because of the manner in which he’s helped the office extend its reach to the immigrant community.

In 2024, Castillo co-authored the office’s U & T Visa Certification Policy, allowing noncitizens to come forward to report and testify in criminal matters without facing threats based on their status.

“This has been so significant,” he said. “Hennepin County’s model is recognized nationally for balancing public safety with victim protection.”

Additionally, Castillo is a key adviser to others in the office when they are prosecuting noncitizens and advises the office on a wide range of immigration issues.

Part of encouraging the public to report and help prosecute crime is building bridges and trust with the community. Castillo’s colleagues note that he is especially driven to give everyone in the legal process a voice. He is quick to share the credit for his office’s work with his team.

As a senior attorney in the Division of Professional Standards, he knows he represents the office in the community.

Castillo’s job can take a toll on him, particularly when the outside world is heavy, too. He relies on his community to bring him back to center.

 “When I leave the office, I return to my community through my family and my church,” he said. “I am always hearing feedback from the community and sharing resources.”

And, despite the challenges currently facing his office and the people it serves, he remains optimistic. He encourages others to do the same.

“A lot of people can do things,” he said. “Every little act of kindness makes a difference. That’s what the fabric of our nation has always been.”