About
Brian N. Tufte is a seasoned registered patent attorney with decades of experience guiding clients through complex intellectual property matters. His practice emphasizes patent prosecution across electrical, optical, and mechanical fields, along with infringement and validity evaluations, licensing strategies, and portfolio management. He is recognized for delivering thorough legal counsel tailored to the unique needs of inventors, businesses, and organizations.
Brian began his academic journey at Saint Olaf College, where he earned a B.A. in Physics and Mathematics. He later obtained his J.D., magna cum laude, from William Mitchell College of Law. Following his admission in 1994, he became licensed to practice in Minnesota, before the U.S. Patent & Trademark Office, and in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
Brian has earned widespread recognition for his contributions to intellectual property law. Over the years, he has been named an “IP Star,” a Super Lawyer, and listed in Who’s Who in America as well as Who’s Who in American Law. He has also been acknowledged as one of the leading patent practitioners worldwide and highlighted among the top intellectual property lawyers in Minnesota. These honors reflect his dedication to excellence and his impact on the legal and professional community.
Brian N. Tufte continues to combine legal acumen with technical knowledge to assist clients in protecting and leveraging their innovations. His longstanding commitment to intellectual property law and his respected reputation mark him as a trusted advisor in his field.
Law Office Affiliations
- Partner Emeritus, Seager, Tufte & Wickhem, LLP
- Member, Minnesota Intellectual Property Law Association
- Member, American Intellectual Property Law Association
- Member, Minnesota State Bar Association
Licensed State
- Minnesota
Education
- William Mitchell College of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - Saint Olaf College
BA in Physics and Mathematics
Awards & Badges



- Copyright Application
- Copyright Infringement
- Intellectual Property Litigation
- Patent Application
- Patent Infringement
- Trade Secrets
- Trademark Application
- Trademark Infringement
- Licensing