Business Details
Trusted Legal Representation in South Dakota
Costello Porter has been delivering legal excellence since 1889, establishing itself as a trusted name in South Dakota's legal landscape. With a legacy spanning 125 years, our firm combines deep-rooted experience with modern legal strategies to serve individuals, corporations, and institutions across diverse industries. Our attorneys, including five with over 50 years of experience each, have represented clients in state, federal, and tribal courts, earning recognition in Best Lawyers of America and Chambers USA.We maintain active roles in prestigious organizations like the American College of Trial Lawyers, ensuring our practice remains at the forefront of legal innovation. Our commitment to client success is reflected in our history of landmark cases and our ongoing dedication to personalized, results-driven legal solutions.
Services
Corporate Law
Family Law
Civil Litigation
Employment Law
Property Law
Trusts and Estates
Estate Planning
Real Estate Law
Criminal Defense
Appellate Practice
Highlights and features
- We offer 125 years of continuous legal expertise since 1889
- Our team includes five attorneys with over 50 years of experience each
- Recognized in Best Lawyers of America and Chambers USA listings
- We combine traditional legal values with modern technology solutions
- Free initial consultations for all new clients and cases
Associations and certifications
- Best Lawyers of America
- Chambers USA (Americas Leading Business Lawyers)
- American Board of Trial Advocates
- American College of Trial Lawyers
- International Association of Defense Counsel
Services
Corporate Law
We handle all aspects of corporate law from incorporation to complex shareholder transactions. Our attorneys structure corporations to meet specific business needs while ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. We provide strategic guidance on limited liability protection, investor ownership, and corporate restructuring for businesses of all sizes.
Family Law
Our family law practice addresses complex personal matters with compassionate legal representation. We assist clients with divorce proceedings, child custody arrangements, and spousal support negotiations while staying current with evolving family law statutes. Our approach balances legal expertise with sensitivity to clients' emotional needs during challenging life transitions.
Civil Litigation
We represent plaintiffs and defendants in diverse civil litigation matters including contract disputes, personal injury claims, and will contests. Our experienced trial attorneys develop strategic approaches to resolve conflicts through negotiation, mediation, or courtroom litigation. We handle cases involving property disputes, insurance claims, and business litigation across state and federal jurisdictions.
Employment Law
Our employment law practice addresses workplace disputes for employers and employees. We handle discrimination claims, wrongful termination cases, and wage disputes while providing preventive guidance on employment practices. Our attorneys combine litigation expertise with practical solutions for resolving workplace conflicts and ensuring compliance with labor regulations.
Trusts and Estates
We offer comprehensive estate planning services including wills, trusts, and asset protection strategies. Our attorneys create customized estate plans using South Dakota's favorable trust laws while assisting with trust administration and probate proceedings. We help clients establish living trusts, dynasty trusts, and other estate planning instruments to achieve long-term wealth preservation goals.
People
Heather L. Bogard
SD State Bar President (2023-2024)
Recognized leader in South Dakota legal community with extensive experience in civil litigation and corporate law. Active member of American College of Trial Lawyers and Chambers USA listed attorney.
Gene R. Bushnell
Attorney
Experienced legal professional with focus on business transactions and real estate law. Provides strategic counsel to corporate clients and maintains active trial practice in state courts.
Edward C. Carpenter
Attorney
Specializes in employment law and civil litigation with emphasis on workplace disputes and corporate compliance. Recognized for successful mediation outcomes in complex employment cases.
Garrett J. Keegan
Attorney
Trial attorney with notable success in civil litigation and appellate practice. Handles complex commercial disputes and represents clients in state and federal appellate courts.
Joseph R. Lux
Attorney
Focuses on real estate law and property transactions with extensive experience in commercial development and land acquisition matters across the Dakotas.
Questions
What practice areas does Costello Porter specialize in?
We specialize in corporate law, family law, civil litigation, employment law, real estate law, and trusts & estates, serving clients across multiple states.
How long has Costello Porter been in business?
Our firm has provided legal services since 1889, maintaining continuous operation for over 135 years in South Dakota.
What makes Costello Porter different from other law firms?
We combine century-spanning local expertise with national recognition, including multiple attorneys listed in Best Lawyers of America and Chambers USA.
Do you offer free initial consultations?
Yes, we provide free initial consultations for all new clients to discuss their legal needs and potential case outcomes.
Where are your offices located?
Our primary office is in Rapid City, SD with additional office in Spearfish, SD, serving clients across the Dakotas and Wyoming.
What experience do your attorneys have?
Our team includes five attorneys with over 50 years of experience each, plus members of prestigious organizations like the American College of Trial Lawyers.
