Scott Bratland

Scott Bratland is a criminal defense attorney at Bratland Law in Watertown, South Dakota. His practice is limited to criminal defense, with experience representing clients charged with offenses ranging from driving under the influence and simple assault to serious felonies. He prepares cases for negotiation and trial, examines how evidence was collected, and advocates for clients facing criminal charges in South Dakota courts.

Scott earned a J.D. from the University of South Dakota in 1991 after receiving a B.A. from Augustana College in 1988, where he graduated with honors. He began defending criminal cases in 1991 and has continued concentrating on that field. His legal training and lengthy practice provide a foundation for evaluating criminal statutes, procedural safeguards, the prosecution’s evidence, and arguments to present in court.

Scott has tried cases involving murder, first-degree rape, simple assault, and driving under the influence. He has argued criminal matters before the South Dakota Supreme Court and has obtained dismissals by challenging the way law enforcement officers gathered evidence. His work includes cases involving controlled substances, alleged sexual offenses, and felony and misdemeanor charges. He also prepares for jury trials when cases cannot be resolved earlier.

Scott belongs to the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers and the South Dakota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers. He has participated in Watertown community organizations, including the United Way, Boys and Girls Club, and Lions Club. He was named South Dakota’s 2024 Criminal Defense Attorney of the Year. Scott Bratland brings decades of criminal defense work to protecting clients’ procedural rights and presenting their cases.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Bratland Law
• Member, State Bar of South Dakota
• Member, National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers
• Member, South Dakota Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Licensed State

• South Dakota

Education

• University of South Dakota
  Juris Doctor (JD)

Awards & Badges