Jeff Cole

Jeff Cole is a co-founder and trial attorney at Northern Plains Justice, LLP in Sioux Falls. After more than three decades in private practice, his work is primarily focused on trials and litigation, including personal injury and other significant civil matters. He represents clients in state and federal courts and brings experience from both private practice and public service, including prior work as Turner County State’s Attorney.

Jeff graduated from South Dakota State University in 1988 and from the University of South Dakota School of Law in 1992. His legal education provided the foundation for a career centered on courtroom advocacy, appellate briefing, legal strategy, and the analysis of complex factual records. Since beginning private practice in 1992, he has built experience across a wide range of contested matters and has served as both lead and co-counsel in major litigation.

Jeff has tried more than 30 jury trials to verdict and hundreds of court trials. He has also briefed and argued reported cases before the South Dakota Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. His appellate record includes matters involving estates, municipalities, civil disputes, and federal issues. He also served as Turner County State’s Attorney from 1995 through 2004, adding prosecutorial experience to his trial background.

Jeff Cole is a member of the American Association for Justice, the South Dakota Trial Lawyers Association, and the South Dakota Bar Association. His practice emphasizes direct trial preparation, detailed factual analysis, and practical advice about the risks and opportunities of litigation. He helps injured clients and other litigants understand their options, prepare persuasive cases, and pursue resolutions through negotiation, trial, or appeal when necessary.

Law Office Affiliations

• Founder, Northern Plains Justice, LLP
• Member, State Bar of South Dakota
• Member, American Association for Justice
• Member, South Dakota Trial Lawyers Association

Licensed State

• South Dakota

Awards & Badges