Pete Heidepriem

Pete Heidepriem is an experienced trial lawyer practicing in federal, state, and tribal courts across South Dakota. His work focuses on personal injury, civil rights, American Indian law, and appeals. Pete has successfully represented clients in complex injury cases, including workplace accidents, wrongful death, and medical negligence, securing multi-million-dollar settlements. His civil rights work involves fighting for individuals facing racial discrimination and constitutional violations. Pete also has extensive appellate experience, winning key cases in both state and federal courts.

Pete earned his J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center, where he was on the Dean’s List and a Moot Court participant. He was also a graduation commencement speaker and a member of the Georgetown Immigration Law Journal. He completed coursework in International and Comparative Business Law at Bucerius Law School. Before law school, he received a B.A. in Philosophy and Political Science from Arizona State University (magna cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa). He also studied Economics and Political Theory at the London School of Economics.

Pete has won significant legal victories for his clients, including a $2.5 million workplace injury case and multiple wrongful death settlements exceeding $1 million. In appeals, he successfully argued a constitutional rights case before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit, achieving a unanimous decision. He has also represented clients in the South Dakota Supreme Court and filed an amicus brief before the U.S. Supreme Court on behalf of American Indian tribes.

Pete Heidepriem is a dedicated tribal law attorney and advocate with extensive experience serving Native communities. He recently served as General Counsel for the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe (2023–2024), advising the Tribal Council and tribal government on a wide range of legal and governance issues. Previously, he worked as a tribal prosecutor for the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe (2020–2021), where he focused on violent crime and drug-related cases in tribal court.

Beyond his legal practice, Pete is an adjunct professor at the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law, where he teaches appellate advocacy and federal Indian law. His knowledge and dedication make him a trusted advocate for his clients.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Heidepriem, Purtell, Siegel & Hinrichs, LLP

Licensed State

• South Dakota

Education

• Georgetown University Law Center
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Arizona State University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges