Brett J. Waltner

Partner

About Brett Waltner

As an attorney, I am very dedicated to helping my clients through the most difficult times in their lives. Whether my clients have been severely injured through various types of accidents, have been arrested, or they are trying to protect their business interests by pursuing debts owed to them or by needing help with their real estate investments, I take pride in being the person they trust to guide them through the process. I try to instill a calming and reasonable influence on my clients while fighting for their interests. I realize legal situations can be very complex, frightening, and hard to understand, and I really enjoy being able to translate complicated legal concepts into simple, understandable terms to both my clients and jurors.

I am originally from Larchwood, Iowa. I attended the University of Sioux Falls (USF) where I studied business and played baseball. Following my time at USF, I attended the University of South Dakota School of Law, where I earned my law degree in 2007. I started my legal career as a Deputy State’s Attorney in Minnehaha County. During my time as a prosecutor, I was able to handle a wide variety of cases, ranging from simple traffic tickets to first-degree murder.

I enjoyed my time as a prosecutor as it allowed me to gain invaluable experience in the courtroom, handling approximately 15 jury trials and hundreds of court trials, plea hearings, preliminary hearings, sentencings, and other hearings. I decided to leave that role in 2011 to open a small law practice in Tea. Since that time, I have been in private practice and have spent my career helping people through challenging personal times — something I have found very rewarding. I currently work in the areas of personal injury, custody and divorce, criminal defense, and debt collection and enforcement.

My wife and I reside in Tea with our three children. We love the small-town feel of Tea and cherish the great relationships we’ve made in the community. Since moving there in 2009, I’ve been able to participate on the boards of the Tea Area School District, Tea Economic Development Corporation, the Tea Community Foundation, the Compass Center, and the River of Hope.

I personally enjoy anything related to sports, whether high school, college, or professional, and love watching my children grow up and participate in their activities.

“I contacted Brett regarding a tenant/landlord relationship that had fallen apart. I had become unable to manage a tenant who refused to pay rent on time and constantly pushed boundaries that were clearly communicated and set. Unfortunately my hand was forced and I was given no choice but to start the eviction process to end the relationship. Fortunately Brett was the frank, forthright, and professional that was needed for the job. He gave solid advice based from experience that immediately instilled my confidence. If you work in property management, own rentals, or have professional contact with renters and things go south, Brett will navigate the situation for you and keep you updated all the while. Give him a call.” - Anonymous Real Estate Client

“Facing legal issues can be angst provoking times–Brett has a manner that will put you at ease. He will hear you. And it is his knowledge of the law and those listening skills that will enable him to sort out the significant details that may be important in your case. He is genuine, professional, knowledgeable, and smart; those talents will display excellently in the courtroom when presenting your case.” - Anonymous Business Law Client

“Brett helped me when I was injured in an accident. I had never been through anything in that nature and Brett guided me and helped me. He understood me and always made sure to keep in touch. Brett is more than a great attorney he is a great person and it shows through his work!” - Anonymous Personal Injury Client