Brian N. Tufte

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 is a nationally recognized leader in intellectual property law. Over his career, he has been honored as an “IP Star,” named a Super Lawyer, and featured in both Who’s Who in America and Who’s Who in American Law. He is consistently ranked among the world’s leading patent practitioners and recognized as one of Minnesota’s top intellectual property attorneys. These distinctions underscore his deep expertise in IP, his commitment to client success, and his longstanding impact on the legal 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