Erin Willadsen

Erin Willadsen is a partner at Meierhenry Sargent LLP in Sioux Falls whose practice includes civil litigation and criminal defense. Erin joined the firm as a full-time associate in 2019 after working there in earlier support and intern roles, and she became a partner in 2025. Her current work includes contested civil and criminal matters that require trial preparation, courtroom advocacy, careful factual development, and strategic decision-making.

Erin earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in 2016, with minors in Mathematics and Political Science. She graduated from the University of South Dakota School of Law in 2019, magna cum laude and with Sterling Honors. In law school, she served as President of the Moot Court Board and Vice President of the Trial Team, competing successfully in national advocacy competitions.

Erin has participated in jury and court trials involving criminal charges and civil claims, including murder, assault, theft by embezzlement, wrongful death, conversion, fraud, and related disputes. She is admitted in South Dakota, the U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota, and the Eighth Circuit. Her practice also includes appellate and trial preparation, and she works closely with other experienced litigators at the firm on significant matters.

Erin Willadsen has received the Thomas J. Horton Advocate of Excellence Award, the USD School of Law Dean’s Leadership Award, and recognition from the South Dakota Trial Lawyers Association. Erin has also held leadership roles in the Second Circuit Bar Association and serves in professional and educational activities. Her litigation practice combines business training, trial-team experience, courtroom work, and ongoing involvement in South Dakota’s legal community.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Meierhenry Sargent LLP
• Women in Law, State Bar of South Dakota
• Board of Governors, South Dakota Trial Lawyers Association (2020 – Present)
• President, Second Circuit Bar Association (2023-2024)
• Volunteer, Teen Court
• Campaign Volunteer, Sioux Empire United Way

Licensed State

• South Dakota

Education

• University of Nebraska-Lincoln
  Bachelor of Science (BS) in Business Administration

Awards & Badges