Samantha Hermsen

Samantha Hermsen is a dedicated attorney who represents tribal governments, agencies, and entities, working to protect their rights and interests in tribal, state, administrative, and federal courts. Her expertise includes jurisdictional disputes, land tenure, tribal sovereign immunity, environmental law and regulations, child and adult welfare, gaming, and tribal code drafting. Known for her adaptability and commitment, Samantha provides comprehensive representation throughout all stages of litigation.

Samantha graduated magna cum laude from Mitchell Hamline School of Law in 2020. During her time in law school, she honed her skills in the Indian Law Impact Litigation clinic, where she worked on significant federal Indian law cases involving reservation boundaries and taxation. She also clerked in the Child Protection division of the Hennepin County Attorney’s office, assisting with cases under the Indian Child Welfare Act. These experiences deepened her understanding of the unique legal challenges facing tribal communities.

Before joining Hogen Adams, Samantha served as a prosecutor in the Hennepin County Attorney’s office, handling felony cases primarily related to domestic assault. This role provided her with extensive negotiation and courtroom experience, which she now applies to her work advocating for tribal governments.

Samantha is admitted to practice before the Minnesota Supreme Court, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, and multiple federal district and tribal courts, including the Lower Sioux Indian Community Tribal Court, Ho-Chunk Nation Tribal Court, Stockbridge-Munsee Tribal Court, and Lac du Flambeau Tribal Court.

Through her work, Samantha has earned a reputation as a passionate and skilled advocate for tribal sovereignty and self-determination. By leveraging her legal knowledge and experience, she assists tribal governments in navigating complex legal landscapes protecting their rights, resources, and communities. Her commitment to justice and dedication to serving tribal interests make her an invaluable asset in tribal law and litigation.

Law Office Affiliations

• Associate, Hogen Adams

Licensed State

• Minnesota

Education

• Mitchell Hamline School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Minnesota
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges