James Cerney

James Cerney is the founder of Cerney Law Office, a rural-focused practice based in Mobridge, South Dakota. He represents individuals and families across North and South Dakota in criminal defense, personal injury, and wrongful death matters. His criminal practice includes DUI and DWI charges, drug offenses, domestic violence, assault and battery, and white collar crimes. He also helps injured clients pursue compensation after vehicle accidents, workplace injuries, and defective product incidents.

Cerney earned his law degree from the University of South Dakota after completing his undergraduate studies at South Dakota State University. He also served in the United States Army before finishing law school and returning to his hometown. His education, military service, and rural background provide a practical foundation for evaluating legal problems, preparing cases, and advising clients who may have limited access to nearby legal services.

Before opening his firm in 2006, Cerney spent five years working in the insurance industry with matters involving criminal law and wrongful death. That experience gave him insight into insurance practices and the challenges individuals may face when pursuing claims against large companies. He handles investigations, insurance negotiations, plea discussions, sentencing proceedings, and courtroom matters while traveling throughout rural communities for client consultations and court appearances.

James Cerney is admitted to practice in South Dakota and North Dakota, the federal courts of South Dakota, North Dakota, and Colorado, and the Standing Rock and Cheyenne River tribal courts. He is known for providing direct, accessible representation and personally responding to clients who contact the firm. Through hands-on service and broad court admissions, he helps rural clients protect their rights, address serious legal problems, and pursue practical resolutions.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, Cerney Law Office
• Member, State Bar of South Dakota
• Member, North Dakota Bar Association

Licensed State

• South Dakota
• North Dakota

Education

• University of South Dakota
  Law Degree
• South Dakota State University
  Undergraduate Studies

Awards & Badges