About
Jonathan P. Sanstead is a highly respected Managing Partner and Senior Attorney with over two decades of legal experience. Known for his deep expertise in intellectual property law, he has consistently been recognized as a Super Lawyer from 2012 through 2024. His practice spans state, tribal, and federal jurisdictions, where he advocates with precision and dedication.
Jonathan earned his undergraduate degree from St. Cloud State University in 1992. He went on to receive his Juris Doctor, Cum Laude, from William Mitchell College of Law in 1995, demonstrating early academic excellence. His educational foundation laid the groundwork for his future success across diverse areas of law.
Over the years, Jonathan has represented clients in multiple courts, including the U.S. District Court for the District of North Dakota and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit. He has also been admitted to the U.S. Supreme Court. His licensure across several tribal courts—such as the Cheyenne River, Fort Berthold, Spirit Lake, and Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Courts—illustrates his unique commitment to serving Native American communities.
Jonathan’s career is marked by a track record of helping individuals and organizations protect their intellectual property rights and navigate complex legal landscapes. His reputation as a reliable, ethical, and skilled advocate has made him a trusted advisor for clients facing high-stakes legal challenges.
Jonathan P. Sanstead continues to lead with integrity, bringing strategic insight and a wealth of courtroom experience to every case he undertakes. His enduring recognition as a Super Lawyer underscores his lasting impact on the legal field.
Law Office Affiliations
- Managing Partner and Sr. Attorney, Sanstead Law Office, PLLC
- Member, State Bar Association of North Dakota
Licensed State
- North Dakota
Education
- Mitchell Hamline School of Law
Juris Doctor (JD) - St. Cloud State University
Bachelor’s Degree
Awards & Badges

- Arbitration
- Commercial real estate
- Construction and development
- Contracts and agreements
- Copyright application
- Corporate and incorporation
- Litigation
- Mediation
- Mergers and acquisitions
- Partnership
- Probate
- Residential real estate
- Trademark application
- Trusts
- Wills and living wills