DeWitt Continues Strategic Growth in Minneapolis with Four Attorney Additions
DeWitt's continued investment in its Minneapolis office underscores the firm's commitment to growing alongside its clients. The firm recently welcomed four attorneys whose experience strengthens its capabilities in intellectual property, business law, and litigation.
Intellectual property attorneys Michael Haukaas, Ph.D., and Paul Judd, Ph.D., have joined the firm as partners, and Steven McCarney and Trenton K. Seegert have joined as associates. Together, these additions reflect DeWitt's continued investment in serving clients with sophisticated legal counsel delivered through long-term relationships and practical business judgment.
Haukaas and Judd join DeWitt from the intellectual property boutique Haukaas Fortius PLLC, where they advised innovators, entrepreneurs, research institutions, and established companies on protecting and maximizing the value of their intellectual property. Their arrival expands DeWitt’s nationally recognized Intellectual Property Practice, particularly in the life sciences, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, medical technology, and chemical sciences.
Haukaas counsels clients on intellectual property strategy, patent prosecution, licensing, due diligence, and risk assessment, helping organizations align intellectual property decisions with broader business objectives. Judd focuses on domestic and international patent preparation and prosecution, collaborating with startups, research organizations, and established businesses to develop intellectual property strategies that support innovation and commercialization.
McCarney represents businesses, insurers, property owners, and individuals in civil litigation involving business, employment, insurance, construction, real estate, and trust and estate disputes. Seegert advises businesses, entrepreneurs, and nonprofit organizations on intellectual property and business law matters, including trademark and copyright protection, mergers and acquisitions, corporate transactions, and general business counseling.
“DeWitt continues to experience strong growth across our offices and practice areas because clients trust us with matters that are critical to their businesses and their futures,” said Timothy L. Stewart, President and Managing Partner of DeWitt LLP. “As that trust continues to grow, so does our commitment to strategically adding exceptional attorneys who share our client-first approach. Michael, Paul, Steven, and Trenton each bring impressive experience, practical judgment, and a genuine commitment to helping clients achieve their goals. We are excited to welcome them to DeWitt.”
James Kremer, Managing Partner of DeWitt’s Minneapolis office, said the additions further strengthen the firm’s ability to serve innovators, growing businesses, and organizations throughout Minnesota and beyond.
“These attorneys bring outstanding legal talent and diverse experience that complement our existing team,” Kremer said. “From sophisticated patent strategy and intellectual property protection to complex litigation and business counseling, they enhance our ability to help clients navigate key opportunities and challenges with confidence. Their arrival reflects the continued momentum of our Minneapolis office and our commitment to delivering exceptional service at every stage of our clients’ growth.”
The additions continue DeWitt’s strategic expansion in Minneapolis while reinforcing the firm’s collaborative, relationship-driven approach to client service. By bringing together attorneys with deep technical knowledge, litigation experience, and business insight, DeWitt continues to offer clients the depth of a larger firm with the accessibility, accountability, and practical judgment they value.
About DeWitt LLP
Founded in 1903, DeWitt LLP provides sophisticated legal counsel for businesses, organizations, families, and individuals throughout Wisconsin, Minnesota, and beyond. With more than 130 attorneys, the firm helps clients solve complex legal challenges with practical judgment, responsive service, and a commitment to results.
Whether advising companies on critical business decisions or guiding individuals through life's important transitions, DeWitt brings together the right legal experience while maintaining the personal relationships and accountability clients value. It's a smarter approach to legal counsel—one built on trust, collaboration, and long-term partnership.
When it matters, DeWitt.